Here is the updated job posting, shifted from an assistant/overhire support role to a lead Temporary Props Manager position responsible for running prop operations during the contract period.

About the Position:

Meadows School of the Arts at Southern Methodist University seeks a skilled, organized, and dependable Temporary Props Manager to lead prop shop operations, sourcing, and execution for theatrical and operatic productions on a temporary basis. This role is an on-campus, in-person position supporting productions within the Theatre, Dance, and Opera programs of the Meadows School of the Arts.

The Temporary Props Manager oversees the acquisition, construction, modification, and maintenance of all props, serving as the department lead for assigned productions. This position works closely with guest designers, faculty, student crew, stage management, and production staff to support a dynamic educational and production environment. Typical work calls are Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with occasional evening and weekend calls during tech, previews, and performance periods as production schedules require. Compensation is commensurate with experience.

Key Responsibilities:

Manage the daily operations of the prop shop and oversee prop execution for assigned productions from prep through strike.

Source, pull, rent, purchase, construct, modify, and repair props and set dressing in alignment with designer vision and budget parameters.

Lead prop shop overhire staff and mentor/supervise student prop artisans and running crews.

Organize and transport rehearsal props to stage management and ensure performance prop setups are fully realized and maintained.

Coordinate prop load-ins, tech runs, strikes, inventory management, and long-term storage organization.

Maintain a safe, clean, properly stocked, and efficient shop work environment.

Collaborate effectively with scenic designers, stage managers, directors, faculty, Technical Director, and Production Manager.

Manage prop project tracking, petty cash/credit purchases, and budget documentation.

Qualifications:

Proven experience as a Props Manager, Master, or Assistant Props Manager in professional or academic theatre/opera production.

Strong proficiency in prop construction, carpentry, painting, crafting, upholstery, soft goods/sewing, and finishing techniques.

Demonstrated organizational skills, budgeting experience, and meticulous attention to detail.

Ability to read and interpret design drawings, draftings, paint elevations, and research packages.

Excellent leadership, communication, and time-management skills with the ability to manage competing production priorities.

Ability to work independently as a department head and as part of a collaborative production team.

Ability to lift and move production materials and work safely in a shop and performance environment.

Availability to work evenings and weekends as required by tech and performance schedules.

Comprehensive knowledge of shop safety practices, chemical hazards, and tool operations.

Comfort working at heights, including on ladders, personnel lifts, catwalks, and a tension grid approximately 60 feet above the stage floor.

Physical and Environmental Demands:

The successful candidate must be able to:

Lift and carry equipment, prop items, and materials weighing up to 50 pounds.

Push and pull loaded road cases, material carts, and other production equipment.

Stand, walk, bend, kneel, climb, crawl, reach overhead, and work in confined spaces for extended periods.

Work from ladders, personnel lifts, catwalks, and elevated work platforms.

Operate motor vehicles for local prop sourcing, rentals, and transport as needed.

Work occasional evenings and weekends during production periods as required.

SMU is committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming community and encourages applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences.

To Apply:

Please submit a resume, portfolio/website link (if available), and a brief summary of relevant props management experience. Applications will be reviewed upon receipt for current and upcoming production staffing needs.