Technical Director
DESCRIPTION
Department: Production
Classification: Full-Time, Exempt
Work Schedule: Schedule varies based on performance and event schedule. This position regularly works on weekends and night-time events.
How to Apply: Qualified applicants should submit their resume and cover letter to employment@detroitopera.org
Position Summary:
The Technical Director (TD) is the leader of a three-person technical direction team responsible for the planning, supervision and management of productions and events at the Detroit Opera House (DOH), ranging from opera and dance performances produced by Detroit Opera (DO) to Broadway touring musicals, graduations and commercial events hosted in the Detroit Opera House. The TD reports to the General Manager (GM), is responsible for all technical aspects of all productions at the Detroit Opera house and leads the technical staff. The TD is responsible for scheduling and supervising IATSE stage crews and managing various show documentation and, when necessary, drafts (draws) plans and sections for DO opera, dance and other productions. The TD works closely with internal Production staff and external clients.
Specific Responsibilities:
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Function as part of the Production staff to plan, schedule and coordinate various departments and production staff for opera season and all other Detroit Opera events.
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Directly supervise the execution of all technical elements of all productions and rental events throughout the year.
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Ensure all technical aspects of production are completed within budget and schedule
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Manage the maintenance and upkeep of all theatrical equipment and systems.
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Assist the GM in the recruitment and hiring of necessary IATSE crew and seasonal staff.
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Serve as main contact with IATSE, and act as supervisor for all IATSE stage crew departments.
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Participate in collective bargaining with IATSE.
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Ensure compliance with laws and regulations regarding licensing, permits, certificates and relevant documentation regarding the technical and production aspects of performances, including federally mandated safety programs and risk assessment.
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Implement and monitor safety protocols, procedures, and training programs for routine stage operations as well as specific operations related to performance, e.g., aerial performances, special effects, work at height, etc.
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Produce and maintain show and building drawings in VectorWorks and appropriate technical paperwork/supporting documents including floor plans, sections, elevations, hanging plots, and hang schedules.
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Supervise the assembly, storage, and maintenance of scenery and the construction of props for all operas. This may include purchasing materials and supplies and maintaining inventories as needed and supervising the crew during the installation, run, and removal processes.
Required Qualifications:
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Bachelor’s degree in theater or related field.
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Three or more years of experience as a technical director or related role.
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Outstanding leadership ability.
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Experience dealing with and leading union crews.
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Strong Knowledge of scenic automation, rigging systems, theatrical construction techniques, carpentry, metalworking, and engineering.
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Proficient in CAD Drafting (VectorWorks preferred).
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Proficient in MS Office software; highly proficient in Excel.
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Knowledge of industry safety standards.
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Proficient in setting up basic AV systems (projectors/ portable audio system).
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Demonstrated excellent communication skills. This position communicates with clients, vendors, and the public.
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Ability to drive Detroit Opera vehicles, including 24’ box truck.
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Ability to understand diverse perspectives and acknowledge the significance of differences and complexities in background, cultures, values and viewpoints as the foundation for an inclusive environment.
Essential functions/physical demands:
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The person in this position routinely moves materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
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The person in this position remains in a stationary position for periods of time.
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The person in this position occasionally ascends/descends ladders.
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The person in this position occasionally moves throughout the building to access equipment.
Application Deadline:
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. This job may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended. Applications will be reviewed as received throughout the posting period and continue until the position is filled.
Additional Information:
Detroit Opera is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and encourages all employees to fully incorporate their diverse backgrounds, skills, and life experiences into their work and towards the fulfillment of the DO mission.
About Detroit Opera:
Founded in 1971, Detroit Opera (DO) is the premier multi-disciplined producer and presenter for opera, musical theatre, and dance in the Great Lakes Region. Based in the city of Detroit, the organization engages artists of national and international stature for stellar main stage and outreach performances and provides compelling cultural enrichment programs for the diverse audiences and communities that it serves, making it one of Detroit’s pillars of arts and culture. DO is among a select few opera companies nationwide to own its theatre, the historic 2,700-seat Detroit Opera House, which is located in the heart of downtown Detroit.
For more information, please visit https://detroitopera.org
SALARY RANGE: 85000 - 90000
Desired Start Date: September 1, 2026
BENEFITS
Pay Range: $85,000 - $90,000 Annual
HOW TO APPLY
How to Apply: Qualified applicants should submit their resume and cover letter to employment@detroitopera.org
Application Deadline: August 17, 2026