Position Opening at South Dakota State University
Scene Shop Fore(wo)man
Communication Studies & Theatre Department
The Department of Communication Studies & Theatre seeks candidates with outstanding organizational and leadership skills to manage and supervise the Scene Shop in the Theatre program. This is a 12 month, 100% time position. The appointment will begin no later than May 15, 2014. SDSU actively seeks to increase social and intellectual diversity among its faculty and staff. Women and persons underrepresented in higher education are encouraged to apply.
The Scene Shop Fore(wo)man will provide a comprehensive experiential learning environment for theatre students in all aspects of scenic construction, shop safety, load-ins and strikes. The Fore(wo)man will work with the theatre faculty and offer input and advice to ensure the artistic integrity of all departmental productions. The Fore(wo)man will be responsible for day to day operations of the Scene Shop including maintenance, ordering of materials and supplies, inventory and personnel management and maintaining an overall safe and positive work environment.
The successful candidate will have a general knowledge of industry standard practices and materials in scenic construction and scenic rigging techniques, as well as the ability to guide and mentor all levels of students. The Shop Fore(wo)man will be an integral part of the theatre staff and involved in decision-making about season selection, curriculum, and other departmental matters. The Fore(wo)man will be expected to remain competent in current practices through reading, maintaining professional contacts and attending training workshops or conferences.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor's degree in Theatre with an emphasis in Technical Theatre.
- At least two years practical work experience in the technical preparation and construction of theatre scenery and stage units.
- Previous professional supervisory experience.
- Experience organizing, managing and prioritizing workload.
- Mechanical skills in the use of hand and power tools, and gas and electric welders.
- The ability to read and understand floor plans, color renderings, electrical schematics, and advanced construction plans or blueprints.
- Strong oral and written communications skills.
- The ability to instruct on material relevant to technical production labs.
- The ability to lift and carry materials weighing between 50 - 100 pounds on a daily basis is required. The position requires prolonged standing, frequent bending or stooping and climbing of steps and ladders. Occasionally may be required to work on stage grid at a height of 60 feet.
- Working evenings and/or weekends, particularly prior to openings of theatre production presentations.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Advanced degree in Theatre.
- Five or more years practical work experience in the technical preparation and construction of theatre scenery and stage units.
- Previous professional experience teaching in a higher education setting and/or previous professional experience mentoring students.
- Experience working within OSHA health and safety standards.
- Experience with other theatrical technology areas such as Electrics, Audio/Video, Costumes, Props, Hair/Makeup and/or Box Office operations.
SALARY:
Commensurate with qualifications.
UNIVERSITY/COMMUNITY:
SDSU is a land grant institution and the state's largest institution of higher education with an enrollment of approximately 13,000 students. The Communication Studies & Theatre Department offers B.S. degrees in Speech Communication, Speech Education and Theatre as well as minors in Speech Communication, Theatre and Dance. The department offers service courses for the entire university community as well as providing a comprehensive program of study for majors and minors.
SDSU is located in Brookings, South Dakota, a community of approximately 22,100 near the east central border of South Dakota on Interstate 29. The city has an excellent K-12 education system, is accessible to major medical facilities, has an active cultural and social environment, and has numerous lakes and parks within driving distance. It is 50 miles north of Sioux Falls, a city of close to 150,000.
APPLICATION DEADLINE:
Position is open until filled with full consideration given to applications received by October 31, 2013.
APPLICATION PROCESS:
SDSU accepts applications through an on-line employment site. To apply, visit: https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu, search by the position title, view the job announcement, and click on “apply for this posting.” The system will guide you through the electronic application form. The employment site will also require the attachment of a cover letter, which should specifically address how the candidate meets the qualifications as outlined in the advertisement, curriculum vitae and a reference page with the contact information for three professional references. Please contact SDSU Human Resources at (605) 688-4128 if you require assistance with the electronic application process. Email applications will not be accepted.
Any offer of employment is contingent on the university’s verification of credentials and other information required by law and/or university policies, including but not limited to a criminal background check.
For questions on the position, contact Corey Shelsta at (605) 688-4417.
South Dakota State University is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity and the diversity of its faculty, staff and students. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. Arrangements for accommodations required by disabilities can be made at HR@sdstate.edu. SDSU prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, gender, marital status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran’s status or any other protected class in the offering of all educational programs and employment opportunities. Individuals with concerns regarding discrimination should contact: Equal Opportunity Officer/Title IX Coordinator, Human Resources, Administration 318, SDSU, Brookings, SD 57007. Phone: (605) 688-4128.