Production Technician - Harvard University Office for the Arts

Production Technician

Faculty of Arts and Sciences

60456BR

Job Summary

The Production Technician is a member of the College Theater team at the Office for the Arts (OFA). The position coordinates and supports theater activities including management, design, construction, installation and material procurement for all aspects of theater and event programming. Successful candidates will be comfortable working with and supporting innovative student production teams in an extracurricular environment with varying skill levels, have demonstrated ability to work as part of a team and with a variety of projects, vendors, and constituencies in a university environment and the ability to work independently and without immediate supervision.







This is a full-time, benefits eligible position.35 hours per week. This is a 10-month position with a seasonal leave September 1-June 20 [11 weeks unpaid]. Reports to Technical Director for College Theater.



Position Description

Works directly and collaboratively with respective supervisor, other OFA staff, students, guest artists and faculty.

Coordinates workflow for technicians, students, casuals, part-time employees, and outside service providers.

Maintains shop and stage equipment.

Maintain calendars, email communication, and show and facility administrative documents.

Trains students in basic design techniques in all theater disciplines; lighting, sound, projection, scenic and scenery construction as well as front-of-house management.

Promote and maintain a safe and enriching environment in which to practice art making.

Review plans and schedules from student production teams.

Supervises load-in, strikes and technical rehearsals.

Adhere to OFA, OSHA and Harvard University safety guidelines.

Perform or oversee routine maintenance on theatrical equipment.

Coordinates day-to-day scheduled use of the theater and ancillary spaces.

In coordination with the Technical Director, hires and supervises student Technical Assistants.

May be directed to assist with OFA projects and productions across Campus

Willingness to work flexible and extended hours, including weekends in a rigorous work environment.

Basic Qualifications

2+ years of experience in theater setting

Additional Qualifications and Skills

Bachelor’s Degree preferred or 2+ years of equivalent work experience and training.

Demonstrated knowledge of any of the following: theater production management / costume and scenic construction / rigging / sound / lighting / projections.

Proficiency required in Macintosh Systems and Microsoft Office products.

Experience with ETC lighting systems / Yamaha consoles / Qlab / Isadora / CAD Software, specifically Vectorworks.

A high degree of professionalism and the ability to work independently are required.

Ability to work effectively with faculty, students, and staff from diverse backgrounds.

Strong references relating to good interpersonal and problem-solving skills.

Must have a valid driver’s license.

Physical Requirements





Ability to lift 50lbs, walk or stand for extended periods of time and work at heights – from ladders, scaffolding and lifts.

Working Conditions

This position will be based in Cambridge, MA. Furthermore, individual flexible and remote work options for this role will be discussed during the interview process. This position will be based in Cambridge, MA. All remote work must be performed in a state in which Harvard is registered to do business (CA, CT, MA, MD, ME, NH, NY, RI, and VT).

Additional Information

COVID Vaccine Policy: The University requires all Harvard community members to be fully vaccinated (primary series) against COVID-, as detailed in Harvard’s Vaccine & Booster Information. Individuals may claim exemption from the vaccine requirement for medical or religious reasons. More information regarding the University’s COVID vaccination requirement, exemptions, and verification of vaccination status may be found at the University’s “COVID-19 Vaccine Information” webpage: http://www.harvard.edu/coronavirus/covid-19-vaccine-information/.



The Office for the Arts is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. Applicants from populations underrepresented in the arts fields are strongly encouraged to apply.



The Office for the Arts at Harvard (OFA) supports student engagement in the arts and integrates the arts into University life. Through its programs and services, the OFA teaches and mentors, fosters student art making, connects students to accomplished artists, commissions new work, and partners with local, national, and international constituencies. By supporting the development of students as artists and cultural stewards, the OFA works to enrich society and shape communities in which the arts are a vital part of life. The Core Values are Creative Thinking, Integrity, Service, and Respect for Ideas. The Office for the Arts is a unit within Harvard College, Faculty of Arts and Sciences.


Salary: $58-70,000