Technical Design and Engineer Draftsperson – Touring Theater NETworks Presentations Columb

Technical Design and Engineer Draftsperson – Touring Theater

Position: Technical Design and Engineer Draftsperson – Touring Theater

Start Date: On or about March 2, 2026

Type: Full-time Classification: Exempt Location: Remote

Reports to: Technical Director

Position Summary:

NETworks is seeking a highly skilled Technical Design and Engineer Draftsperson to join our Production Management department. Reporting to the Technical Director, and in collaboration with the Production Team, this position is responsible for creating precise technical drawings, engineering solutions, and design documentation for scenic elements, staging, and rigging systems that meet artistic vision, safety standards, and touring requirements. Success in the role requires a passion for problem solving, attention to detail, the ability to work independently while communicating effectively within the organization and to outside vendors, and the ability to work under pressure and handle multiple projects simultaneously.

This position can be either remote, or based in Buffalo, NY, and may require travel throughout the year.

Responsibilities:

Technical Drafting & Design:

• Produce detailed CAD drawings for scenic elements, stage layouts, rigging points, and mechanical components.
• Translate creative concepts into practical, tour-ready designs that comply with structural and safety regulations.
• Maintain accurate documentation for all technical designs, including revisions and updates.

Engineering & Problem-Solving:

• Collaborate with production managers, technical directors, creatives, and fabricators to ensure designs are feasible and cost-effective.
• Calculate load capacities, structural integrity, and material specifications for touring environments.
• Adapt designs for varying venue sizes and technical limitations.

Touring Support:

• Prepare modular and transportable designs optimized for quick assembly/disassembly.
• Provide technical guidance during load-ins, strikes, and troubleshooting on tour.
• Ensure compliance with local and international safety standards.
• Work closely with scenic designers, lighting teams, and audio departments to integrate all technical elements seamlessly.
• Communicate design intent clearly to fabrication shops and touring crews.

Qualifications and Preferred

Skills:

• Proficiency in CAD software (AutoCAD, Vectorworks), including 3D modeling and rendering software.
• Strong understanding of structural engineering principles and theatrical rigging.
• Experience in scenic design and technical drafting for live performance or touring productions.
• Knowledge of materials, fabrication methods, and touring logistics.
• Ability to work under tight deadlines and adapt designs for multiple venues.
• Experience with automation systems and mechanical design.
• Strong problem-solving and communication skills.
• Prior touring experience a plus.

This role is expected to help create a professional work environment and is required to work in a variety of locations and venues, including the NETworks warehouse in Buffalo, NY. Must be able to travel, work evenings, weekends and holidays as needed. Must be able to adapt to multiple buildings / theater venues and work long hours during the technical period(s) in dimly lit environments.

Must be able to travel in multiple modes of transportation, including planes, trains, charter and sleeper coaches, and cars. Must be able to perform functions of position remotely with varied temporary work spaces.

Physical Demands:

Ability to travel via air/train/vehicle and upright or sleeper buses for an extended period. The ability to work varied hours due to show requirements and needs during the production and operating period. The ability to perform job responsibilities in a high stress, crisis management environment and manage multiple staff members’ requirements and priorities and the ability to manage and balance multiple projects.

Must be able to travel for an extended overnight period(s). Applicants must be able to push, pull, move and lift 25+ lbs and work in varied environments (cold, heat, rain).

Commensurate with experience, pay range for this position is $75,000 - $85,000 with benefits package including healthcare, dental, vision,…