Touring Technical Director

About The Kennedy Center

“I am certain that after the dust of centuries has passed over our cities, we, too, will be remembered not for victories or defeats in battle or in politics, but for our contribution to the human spirit.” – President John F. Kennedy

The Kennedy Center is the nation’s cultural center and living memorial to President John F. Kennedy. Located on the banks of the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., the Center presents performances across all genres, and is also home to artistic affiliates Washington National Opera and National Symphony Orchestra. 

At the Kennedy Center, we strive to foster belonging and empowerment at work. We are able to advance our mission because of our committed and passionate employees. We are fortunate to be able to leverage their diverse perspectives, life experiences and skills to inform how our workplace can be a safe, transparent, and replenishing community. The Kennedy Center is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant based on race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition, or any other basis protected by law. 

Mission Statement: As the nation's performing arts center, and a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy, we are a leader for the arts across America and around the world, reaching and connecting with artists, inspiring and educating communities. We welcome all to create, experience, learn about, and engage with the arts. 

Job Description

Kennedy Center Education Department seeks versatile, energetic, non-union Lighting Supervisor/Technical Director for its Equity TYA touring production scheduled for January 2024 – May 2024.  Technicians receive weekly salary, housing, and per diem.  Positions open until filled, with interviews beginning August 2023.

Key Responsibilities

• Advancing all aspects of the production, including but not limited to technical needs, parking, and staffing, with each of the hosting tour venues. Reporting on the status of advance work with upcoming venues to Kennedy Center staff, as well as following up on any questions posed by the touring crew or the venues themselves.
• Under the guidance of the production’s Lighting Designer and as the venue allows, serves as the primary Kennedy Center representative for adapting and executing the lighting design for each venue on tour. This includes, in coordination with the Stage Manager, calling the focus of the light plot in each venue, running through a cue check before the first performance in each venue, conducting a channel check at the top of each day of performances, watching the show for quality control and cueing, and operating the lighting console as the needs of the venue dictate and the house rules allow.
• In conjunction with the Sound Supervisor/ATD, Props/Wardrobe Supervisor, Projections Supervisor, and the Stage Manager, overseeing and participating in all technical aspects of the production for each venue, including: loading and unloading of the truck, building and breakdown of the set, maintenance of the set, and maintenance and inventory of tools and hardware for set. Co-leading brief assessment meetings amongst technical staff to ensure preparedness for upcoming performances. Overseeing and participating in load-out/truck pack of all venues.
• Participate in the shared task of traveling the set and company to and from venues, along with other company technicians, by serving as a 26’ truck driver and van driver, and maintaining all applicable paperwork (driver log, trip log, and vehicle condition report).
• Communicate with the production’s creative team in order to successfully achieve the desired production goals consistently in performance. 
• Carrying a Kennedy Center credit card and petty cash funds for tour needs, and regularly submitting receipts to the Tour office.
• Other duties as assigned.

Key Qualifications

• Applicants must have a minimum of 3 years of technical theater experience in lighting, general stagecraft, and safe working procedures.  Prior touring experience preferred.
• Valid driver’s license, excellent driving record and ability to drive a 26' truck essential. Applicant must possess excellent organizational, communication and interpersonal skills.
• Must be able to lift and carry heavy weights, and stand for upwards of 8 hours a day. Environment includes working outdoors and indoors and in flexible environments.