Assistant Professor of Practice - Theatre (Technical Director)

Description of Work

The Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln invites applications for an Assistant Professor of Practice – Theatre (Technical Director) to join our dynamic program during an exciting period of transformation and growth. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of entertainment design and production education while working at the intersection of traditional theatrical craft and cutting-edge digital media technologies.

As we are preparing to launch our newly re-invented Entertainment Design and Production BFA program and continue to foster our thriving MFA program, we seek a visionary technical leader who thrives in interdisciplinary environments and is passionate about preparing students for the evolving landscape of live and mediated entertainment.

The successful candidate will have a comprehensive knowledge of scenic construction and engineering, rigging and safety including knowledge in craft and properties. Experience with entertainment technology including Vectorworks, AutoCAD, automation and other show control systems, 3D printing and CNC fabrications technologies. The candidate will be committed to practice-based learning, have an understanding of how traditional craft knowledge informs and enhances digital innovation, have a passion for interdisciplinary collaboration and a dedication to preparing students for current and future career paths. The candidate will enthusiastically explore new technologies and methodologies, be comfortable with ambiguity, be able to thrive during transformation and have an interest in contributing to the development of new pedagogical approaches. Willingness to engage with online platforms and digital curriculum development is a must. The successful candidate will be experienced in managing complex technical operations, have the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, students, faculty, staff and industry partners, have a track record of successful project management and have a vision for the future evolution of technical theatre education in order to meet changing industry demands.

The Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film is expanding beyond traditional boundaries to embrace the convergence of live performance, film, digital media, and emerging technologies. Our Technical Director will be instrumental in guiding this transformation, helping to establish new pedagogical approaches that reflect industry innovation while honoring the foundational principles of theatrical craft.

This position is uniquely positioned to foster campus-wide interdisciplinary collaboration, particularly with our close partnership with the Johnny Carson Center for Emerging Media Arts. Together, they create a comprehensive ecosystem where students explore the full spectrum of entertainment design—from traditional stagecraft to virtual production, motion capture, interactive media, and immersive storytelling technologies.

Nebraska offers an attractive compensation and benefits package, commensurate with the successful candidate’s background and experience. Faculty status with opportunities for promotion in rank and sabbatical opportunities for continued learning and professional development are additional key benefits.

Key Responsibilities Technical Leadership and Innovation

• Oversee all physical building aspects of Production including rigging, safety, and engineering for the Johnny Carson School.
• Design and implement technical systems that support both conventional and experimental production methodologies.
• Lead the integration of new production technologies into existing production processes.
• Collaborate with Emerging Media Arts faculty to develop cross-program technical resources and workflows.

Educational Excellence

• Teach courses in technical theatre, entertainment technology, and emerging production methodologies.
• Develop curriculum that bridges traditional craft with digital innovation.
• Mentor students in both hands-on construction techniques and sophisticated digital tools.
• Foster interdisciplinary learning opportunities across theater, film, and emerging media programs.

Facility Development and Management

• Oversee the strategic development of technical facilities to support our expanding programmatic vision.
• Manage traditional scene shops, prop shops, storage spaces, and making labs alongside emerging technology spaces.
• Ensure all facilities meet current safety standards while accommodating innovative practices.

Professional Engagement and Industry Connection

• Sustain active engagement with current and emerging entertainment industry technologies.
• Advocate for student opportunities in internships, apprenticeships, and industry partnerships.
• Represent the program at professional conferences and industry events.
• Contribute to the ongoing conversation about the future of entertainment education.
• Facilitate connections between academic programming and professional development opportunities.

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment