CLASSIFICATION: Regular, Full-time, Exempt
OVERVIEW
The Technical Director (TD) plays a critical role in ensuring the smooth and professional technical operation of all performances, special events, exhibitions, and rentals at BlackRock Center for the Arts. Working closely with the Artistic Director and Director of Operations, the Technical Director oversees the maintenance, setup, and execution of lighting, sound, rigging, and video systems across all performance, event, and gallery spaces. This position is ideal for an experienced hands-on technical professional who is organized, collaborative, and passionate about creating high-quality experiences for artists, audiences, and community partners. Evening and weekend work is required and regular.
ABOUT BLACKROCK CENTER FOR THE ARTS
BlackRock Center for the Arts (BlackRock Center), the leading venue for the performing and visual arts in Upper Montgomery County, MD, provides the community with the highest level of quality performances, free gallery exhibitions, and arts education classes in a welcoming and intimate setting close to home.
PURPOSE
BlackRock envisions an accessible and inclusive community anchor for creative expression, cultural exchange, and belonging, where artistic growth thrives.
BlackRock Center:
Celebrates the diversity of Upper Montgomery County, Germantown, and the surrounding areas through arts and culture,
Nurtures and builds artistic, cultural, and educational experiences,
Elevates historically excluded people and art, and
Dismantles systemic barriers.
VALUES
Trust: BlackRock Center is committed to building trust and holding ourselves accountable to the community and to each other.
Equity: BlackRock strives to make art accessible and welcoming to populations systemically oppressed in our community. We believe that the ability to participate in and express oneself through art is a right for everyone.
Curiosity: Black Rock is committed to embracing inquiry as we learn and live the creative process.
Community: BlackRock will elevate the soul through community, intention, and inclusivity which can impact each individual, improving our society and our world.
JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The Technical Director will:
Support the Mission
Develop Insight into the challenges and opportunities facing diverse communities, particularly in the arts and cultural sectors.
Understand and respect cultural differences while working with all stakeholders.
Foster relationships with community partners.
Commit to the values of trust, equity, curiosity, and community, with a demonstrated understanding of how these principles apply to technical processes.
Manage Production and Event Support
Serve as technical leadership throughout the program development process (preparation, staging, execution, and strike of all technical elements) for internal and external events. -
Ensure program implementation is held to high artistic and safety standards in collaboration with BlackRock+rsquo;s core leadership team.
Serve as the on-site technical lead for performances, community events, and external rentals.
Assist with set-up and technical support for gallery installations and special programs.
Support operations with event prep + strike, as necessary.
Supervise the Hiring Process for Technical Staff
Schedule, train, and supervise production staff, crew, and over-hire technicians, ensuring adequate staffing for all events.
Train staff in technical procedures, safety standards, and proper equipment use and storage.
Promote a safe, inclusive, and collaborative work environment for staff, artists, and volunteers.
Maintain and Manage Equipment Inventory
Oversee maintenance and inventory of all sound, theatrical, A/V, lighting and rigging equipment.
Identify equipment needs and recommend purchases or services to maintain high technical standards. Track and document repairs, upgrades, and replacements.
Ensure all systems and facilities comply with OSHA and fire code requirements.
Collaborate with Clients and Partners
Serve as the technical liaison for visiting performers, presenting partners, and rental clients to ensure clear communication and smooth event execution.
Coordinate and schedule use of house equipment; arrange for outside equipment rentals when necessary.
Maintain accurate technical drawings, paperwork, and event documentation.
Evaluate feedback and reports to make ongoing upgrades to department.
Execute Department Administration
Develop and maintain budget for the department. Collaborate with Operations for capital planning and projects.
Attend production meetings and staff meetings as needed.
EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE, AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS
Bachelor+rsquo;s degree in technical theatre, production management, or equivalent professional experience
4+ years of experience in technical direction, production management, or venue operation, preferably in a performing arts center, non-profit arts organization, educational theater setting, or similar venue
Proficiency with stage lighting systems (ETC preferred), audio systems (analog and digital), and video/projection equipment
Familiarity with rigging systems, safety standards, and general stagecraft practices
Strong organizational, problem-solving, and leadership skills
Ability to work flexible hours, including nights and weekends
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Sit, stand, walk, and work at a computer, relative to an office environment
Ability to work a flexible work schedule, including weekends and evenings, as required
Ability to lift 50 lbs. and work at height safely
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
BlackRock Center for the Arts has an institutional commitment to the principle of diversity. In that spirit, we welcome applications from all qualified individuals without regard to race, religion, creed, color, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or national origin.
