POSITION OVERVIEW
Charlottesville Opera seeks an Assistant Technical Director to support the Technical Director in the planning, construction, and installation of scenery for our productions. In addition to scenic shop responsibilities, this position will serve as Deck Manager during technical rehearsals and performances, coordinating backstage scenic movement and crew operations.
PRODUCTIONS
Rodgers and Hammerstein+rsquo;s Cinderella (Original)
Rossini+rsquo;s Il barbiere di Siviglia (sung in Italian)
DATES + SCHEDULE
Pre-Season Build - April 13-24, 2026 - Charlottesville, VA
Build - June 1-15, 2026 - Charlottesville, VA
Production Load-In - June 16-19, 2026 - Charlottesville, VA
Technical Rehearsals - June 20-24, 2026 - Charlottesville, VA
Performance 1 - June 26, 2026 - 7:00 PM - Charlottesville, VA
Performance 2 - June 27, 2026 - 2:00 PM - Charlottesville, VA
Performance 3 - June 28, 2026 - 2:00 PM - Charlottesville, VA
Production Load-In - July 8-10, 2026 - Charlottesville, VA
Technical Rehearsals - July 11-15, 2026 - Charlottesville, VA
Performance 1 - July 17, 2026 - Charlottesville, VA
Performance 2 - July 19, 2026 - 2:00 PM - Charlottesville, VA
COMPENSATION
$6,000+ndash;$7,000, dependent on experience.
TRAVEL + HOUSING
Housing provided (homestay or shared housing, private bedroom).
Travel reimbursement up to $300 (with receipts).
Applicants must have their own transportation or arrange local travel.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Assist the Technical Director in drafting scenic elements and producing construction drawings
Support the planning and execution of scenic builds in the shop
Assist with materials procurement and organization of scenic inventory
Help supervise carpenters, overhire labor, and interns during build periods
Support load-ins, technical rehearsals, and strikes for all productions
Serve as Deck Manager during technical rehearsals and performances, coordinating backstage scenic shifts and crew
Work closely with Stage Management and Production Staff to ensure safe and efficient backstage operations
Maintain shop organization and uphold safety standards throughout the build and rehearsal process
IDEAL EXPERIENCE
Minimum of two years of technical experience in theatre and/or opera production
Strong drafting skills and the ability to translate scenic designs into construction drawings
Experience with CAD drafting software (Vectorworks or similar) preferred
Solid scenic carpentry skills and familiarity with standard theatrical construction techniques
Strong organizational and communication skills
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced production environment
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, or climb for extended periods
Ability to lift, push, pull, or carry materials up to 50 pounds independently
Comfortable working at heights, including ladders or lifts
Ability to perform repetitive motions and manual tasks
Comfortable working in shop, stage, and rehearsal environments
Ability to wear appropriate personal protective equipment when required
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT
Charlottesville Opera is committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful working environment and encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds and experiences to apply.
