Deck/Scenic Intern - Orlando Shakespeare Theater
Seasonal | Full-Time | July 27, 2026 through May 9, 2027 | $15.00/hr | Open Until Filled
Orlando Shakespeare Theater is seeking a Deck/Scenic Intern to join our production team for the upcoming season at the Lowndes Shakespeare Center. This is a full-time, 10-month position with a primary focus on running deck and operating automation in the Margeson Theater, with additional time supporting the scene shop during build periods.
About Orlando Shakespeare Theater
Now in our 38th season, Orlando Shakespeare Theater (Orlando Shakes) is one of the Southeast+rsquo;s leading professional theaters, located in the heart of Orlando at the Lowndes Shakespeare Center. With an annual operating budget of $6,000,000, Orlando Shakes produces a 10-show season spanning classic Shakespeare, contemporary plays, new American works, and our beloved annual production of A Christmas Carol. We employ professionals from across the country, including members of Actors' Equity Association, United Scenic Artists, and the Stage Directors and Choreographers Society.
Our four performance spaces - the Margeson Theater (324 seats), Goldman Theater (118 seats), Santos-Dantin Theater (65 seats), and Mandell Theater (100 seats) - host a full year-round season alongside robust educational programming that serves Central Florida schools and the broader community. Orlando Shakes operates in partnership with the University of Central Florida (UCF).
About the Intern Training Program
Orlando Shakes is excited to relaunch its Intern Training Program, offering early-career theater artists the opportunity to earn professional credits and hands-on training to help bridge the gap between university theater and the professional world. Our program is designed for emerging artists - typically those who have recently completed an undergraduate degree - who are ready to take the next step toward a professional career in theater.
Program participants work alongside our resident production staff, guest designers, and directors, gaining real-world experience, industry contacts, career mentorship, and a deeper respect for all aspects of professional theater production. If you want to work and train at one of the nation's best Shakespeare theaters, this is the internship for you.
Position Description
The Deck/Scenic Intern is a show-running focused position, with approximately 90% of time spent as a member of the running crew - executing scenic shifts, running deck, and operating automation in the Margeson Theater - and 10% assisting the scene shop with construction and scenic painting. Under the supervision of the Technical Director and production stage management, this intern will develop strong, professional-level running crew skills across all productions in the season.
Responsibilities Include:
- Work as a backstage deck crew member for all productions to which you are assigned, including executing scenic shifts and flying/tracking moves
- Operate automation and mechanized scenic systems in the Margeson Theater for productions as assigned, under proper training and supervision
- Participate in all technical rehearsals, automation training sessions, and note sessions as required
- Assist with scenic construction including carpentry and general fabrication under the supervision of the Technical Director (approximately 10% of time)
- Assist with scenic painting, texture work, and finishing of scenic elements as assigned
- Help maintain safe, clean, and organized backstage, deck, and scene shop environments
- Assist with the strike of all scenic elements at the close of each production
- Attend all technical rehearsals, production meetings, and calls as required
- Assist in all load-ins and strikes across the season
- Perform additional duties as assigned by the Technical Director or other management designee
Requirements:
- Recent undergraduate degree in Technical Theater, Scene Design, or related field, or equivalent training/experience
- Interest in scenic operations, running crew, and the technical aspects of live theater production
- Basic carpentry, construction, or fabrication skills
- Ability to safely lift 50 pounds and work at heights using ladders, man lifts, and scaffolding up to 25 feet
- Collaborative, dependable, and adaptable in a fast-paced production environment
- Ability to read basic scenic drawings and ground plans
- Night and weekend availability required; must be available for the entire season
- Must have reliable personal transportation and a valid driver+rsquo;s license; housing is not provided
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience working backstage deck crew for professional or university productions
- Familiarity with scenic automation systems and safe operation
- Experience in scenic construction or carpentry in a production environment
- Familiarity with scenic painting techniques including texture, faux finish, and drop painting
- Proficiency with Vectorworks or other drafting software
Program Details
- Full-time, 10-month seasonal positions (July 27, 2026 through May 9, 2027)
- $15.00 per hour
- Night and weekend availability is required
- Housing is NOT provided; you must have your own transportation to and from work
- You must be available for the entire season in order to be considered
- Summer positions are not currently offered
Our Commitment to Diversity
Orlando Shakespeare Theater is committed to diverse and inclusive hiring. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds, ethnicities, gender identities, abilities, ages, and perspectives. We particularly welcome Orlando and Florida-based candidates as part of our commitment to supporting our local artistic community.
How to Apply
Send a current resume, cover letter, and references (with email contact) as a single PDF to jobs@orlandoshakes.org. Please include "Your Name" and "Deck/Scenic Intern" in the subject line.
No Phone Calls Please.
Orlando Shakespeare Theater is an equal opportunity employer.
