Lighting and Sound Technology Program Director

Description:

Responsible for the operations of a large program or center at the university. Oversees staff, budgets, and projects.
1. Oversees a large department, program or center.
2. Manages budget and engages in strategic planning to ensure all goals are met.
3. Hires and directs the activities of staff.
4. Resolves personnel issues as they arise.
5. Engages in budget-planning, grant oversight, and policy development.
6. Implements new programs and projects and monitors ongoing activities of department or center.
7. Reviews department policies and processes and implements improvements as needed.
8. Represents department or center to internal and external constituents.
9. Performs other job-related duties as required.

Additional Posting Information: 
Job Overview
The Lighting and Sound Technology Program Director is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and advancement of lighting systems across all performance venues within the Kathrine G. McGovern College of the Arts (KGMCA), as well as providing supplemental support for audio systems in designated venues.

This position provides technical leadership and operational oversight for lighting and sound infrastructure supporting theatrical productions, opera, concerts, dance performances, academic events, and guest artists. The Director collaborates closely with faculty, production staff, students, and guest artists to ensure that all systems operate safely, reliably, and at a high professional standard.

Responsibilities and Duties
• Venue Systems Responsibility: Oversee lighting systems across all KGMCA performance venues, including Moores Opera House, Dudley Recital Hall, Choral Recital Hall, Wortham Theatre, Quintero Theatre, and Studio 208. Provide oversight and support for audio systems in Wortham Theatre, Quintero Theatre, and Studio 208. Coordinate with the Director of AV Technology to ensure consistent audio coverage and system functionality across all venues.
• Lighting Systems Management: Oversee the operation, configuration, and maintenance of lighting systems, including lighting consoles, dimming systems, LED fixtures, conventional fixtures, control networks, and related infrastructure. Ensure all systems are properly maintained, documented, and prepared for productions and events.
• Audio Systems Support: Provide operational support and maintenance for audio systems in assigned venues, including mixing consoles, loudspeakers, microphones, and related equipment. Assist with troubleshooting and ensure systems are functioning reliably for rehearsals, performances, and events.
• Production Support: Provide technical leadership and support for productions, concerts, and events within the College of the Arts, including the School of Theatre and Dance production season, opera productions, and other performances. Collaborate with faculty designers, guest designers, and production teams to ensure lighting and audio systems meet production requirements.
• Lighting Production Support (Electrics): Participate in the preparation and implementation of lighting systems for productions and events, including lighting hang, focus, cabling, data distribution, and fixture maintenance as required. Provide leadership for electrics crews and student technicians during installation, technical rehearsals, and strike.
• Equipment Maintenance and Inventory: Oversee and perform maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of lighting and assigned audio equipment. Maintain accurate and organized inventory of all lighting and audio assets, ensuring proper storage, security, and lifecycle management.
• System Documentation: Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation of lighting and audio systems, including system configurations, patching, signal flow, and equipment inventory.
• Student Training and Supervision: Train and supervise student technicians in lighting and audio systems, supporting both educational outcomes and professional production standards. Provide mentorship and guidance in technical theatre practices.
• Technical Planning and System Development: Assist in planning and implementing system upgrades, equipment purchases, and long-term infrastructure improvements. Stay current with emerging technologies and industry best practices.
• Collaboration and Communication: Collaborate effectively with faculty, directors, designers, stage managers, production staff, and other technical personnel to ensure successful execution of productions and events. Communicate technical requirements clearly and proactively.
• Safety and Compliance: Ensure all lighting and audio operations comply with university policies and industry safety standards. Promote safe working practices for all staff and students.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Technical Theatre, Theatre Design, Audio Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent professional experience).
- Demonstrated experience in lighting systems management within a performing arts or academic environment.
- Working knowledge of audio systems and equipment, particularly in theatrical or small venue environments.
- Proficiency with industry-standard lighting consoles (e.g., ETC family), control networks, lighting and audio software, and audio equipment.
- Strong understanding of lighting and audio system infrastructure, including rigging electrics, cabling, and signal flow.
- Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple venues and projects simultaneously as well as working in an independent environment.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments and with students.
- Master electrician(preferred) not required qualification
- Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as required by production schedules.
Experience will be considered in lieu of education.
Education will be considered in lieu of experience.
MQ: Education: Requires a thorough understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects of an analytical, technical or professional discipline; or the basic knowledge of more than one professional discipline. Knowledge of the discipline is normally obtained through a formal, directly job-related 4 year degree from a college or university or an equivalent in-depth specialized training program that is directly related to the type of work being performed. Experience: Requires a minimum of five (5) years of directly job-related experience. Certification/Licensing: None.

All positions at the University of Houston-System are security sensitive and will require a criminal history check.

The University of Houston System and its universities are Equal Opportunity Institutions. Everyone is encouraged to apply.