Position: Technical Design and Engineer Draftsperson - Touring Theater
Start Date: On or about March 2, 2026
Type: Full-time
Classification: Exempt
Location: Remote
Reports to: Technical Director
Position Summary:
NETworks is seeking a highly skilled Technical Design and Engineer Draftsperson to join our Production Management department. Reporting to the Technical Director, and in collaboration with the Production Team, this position is responsible for creating precise technical drawings, engineering solutions, and design documentation for scenic elements, staging, and rigging systems that meet artistic vision, safety standards, and touring requirements. Success in the role requires a passion for problem solving, attention to detail, the ability to work independently while communicating effectively within the organization and to outside vendors, and the ability to work under pressure and handle multiple projects simultaneously. This position can be either remote, or based in Buffalo, NY, and may require travel throughout the year.
Responsibilities:
Technical Drafting + Design:
- Produce detailed CAD drawings for scenic elements, stage layouts, rigging points, and mechanical components.
- Translate creative concepts into practical, tour-ready designs that comply with structural and safety regulations.
- Maintain accurate documentation for all technical designs, including revisions and updates.
Engineering + Problem-Solving
- Collaborate with production managers, technical directors, creatives, and fabricators to ensure designs are feasible and cost-effective.
- Calculate load capacities, structural integrity, and material specifications for touring environments.
- Adapt designs for varying venue sizes and technical limitations.
Touring Support
- Prepare modular and transportable designs optimized for quick assembly/disassembly.
- Provide technical guidance during load-ins, strikes, and troubleshooting on tour.
- Ensure compliance with local and international safety standards.
Collaboration + Communication
- Work closely with scenic designers, lighting teams, and audio departments to integrate all technical elements seamlessly.
- Communicate design intent clearly to fabrication shops and touring crews.
Qualifications and Preferred Skills
- Proficiency in CAD software (AutoCAD, Vectorworks), including 3D modeling and rendering software
- Strong understanding of structural engineering principles and theatrical rigging.
- Experience in scenic design and technical drafting for live performance or touring productions.
- Knowledge of materials, fabrication methods, and touring logistics.
- Ability to work under tight deadlines and adapt designs for multiple venues.
- Experience with automation systems and mechanical design.
- Strong problem-solving and communication skills.
- Prior touring experience a plus
Work Environment
This role is expected to help create a professional work environment and is required to work in a variety of locations and venues, including the NETworks warehouse in Buffalo, NY. Must be able to travel, work evenings, weekends and holidays as needed. Must be able to adapt to multiple buildings / theater venues and work long hours during the technical period(s) in dimly lit environments. Must be able to travel in multiple modes of transportation, including planes, trains, charter and sleeper coaches, and cars. Must be able to perform functions of position remotely with varied temporary workspaces.
Physical Demands
Ability to travel via air/train/vehicle and upright or sleeper buses for an extended period. The ability to work varied hours due to show requirements and needs during the production and operating period. The ability to perform job responsibilities in a high stress, crisis management environment and manage multiple staff members' requirements and priorities and the ability to manage and balance multiple projects. Must be able to travel for an extended overnight period(s). Applicants must be able to push, pull, move and lift 25+ lbs and work in varied environments (cold, heat, rain).
Salary
Commensurate with experience, pay range for this position is $75,000 - $85,000 with benefits package including healthcare, dental, vision, 401k, life insurance, and paid time off. OSHA Safety training/certification will be provided.
This position may be remote, or based in Buffalo, NY. Please submit a cover letter, resume and references to hr@networkstours.com with "TDED" in the subject line. No phone calls please. For more information, visit www.networkstours.com.
NETworks:
NETworks is committed to building and retaining an inclusive and diverse staff across all projects. As an equal opportunity at-will employer, we strive to create working environments that are welcoming, inclusive, and equitable. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of age, race, religion, color, disability, sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, or national origin. Applicants of all ethnic and racial backgrounds, gender identities, and abilities are encouraged to apply.
NETworks Presentations is an industry-leading producer of touring theatrical productions, committed to delivering quality entertainment to audiences worldwide for more than 25 years. Current and upcoming productions include A Beautiful Noise, Beetlejuice, The Book of Mormon, Buena Vista Social Club, Jersey Boys, Les Miserables, Mark Twain Tonight, Phantom of the Opera, The Great Gatsby, The Sound of Music, The Wiz and Water For Elephants.