Audio and Media Shop Supervisor

Position Summary

The Audio and Media Shop Manager oversees all audio, video, and media operations for the Department of Theatre Arts & Dance. This position combines administrative, technical, and teaching responsibilities to support productions, classroom learning, and special events. The manager supervises staff and students, maintains and upgrades departmental systems, and ensures the successful realization of all audio and media designs across the department's performance spaces.

• Production and Design Support (55%)
  • Supervise, hire, train, and mentor all audio and media staff, student employees, and designers.
  • Develop and manage budgets for productions, shop supplies, repairs, and technology upgrades.
  • Coordinate scheduling, labor assignments, and logistics for productions and departmental events.
  • Maintain, repair, and document all audio and media systems and equipment across Rarig and Barker Center venues (Thrust, Proscenium, Kilburn, X Theatres, Studio 100) and classrooms.
  • Plan and implement technology upgrades, including grant writing and budget proposals.
  • Manage facilities rentals; manage internal and external vendor relationships.
  • Ensure compliance with departmental and university safety policies in coordination with Technical Director.
  • Collaborate with faculty, staff, and student sound and media designers to execute production needs.
  • Oversee system installation and integration for theatrical sound, projection, and digital media.
  • Provide technical support and troubleshooting during rehearsals, performances, and events.
  • Coordinate with scenic, lighting, and stage management teams to ensure seamless production integration.
• Teaching & Mentorship (40%)
  • Teach one course per academic year and supervise and mentor practicum students.
  • Instruct and mentor undergraduate and graduate students in design, technology, and production practices.
  • Supervise student projects, ensuring alignment with course and production objectives, including full involvement in the tech process.
  • Directly observe rehearsals as needed, designer runs, all tech and dress rehearsals, providing timely feedback to ensure a great backstage team.
  • Coordinate with scenic, lighting, and stage management teams to ensure seamless production integration.
• Other (5%)
  • Participate in departmental and university committees (e.g., Production Service Team, Safety Committee, and Production Meetings).
  • Collaborate with faculty and staff to support departmental initiatives and academic goals.
  • Participate in recruitment activities and represent UMN at professional conferences as required.

• Required:
  • BA/BS degree plus at least five years of related experience, or master's degree plus at least three years of related experience.
  • Minimum 5 years of professional experience in theatrical audio, sound design, and media production.
  • Proficiency in audio and media systems, including digital mixing consoles, Dante networks, projection, and media servers.
  • Strong leadership and supervisory experience with technical staff and students.
  • Excellent organizational, communication, and problem‑solving skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.
  • Proficient in Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Drive, Calendar) and Zoom platforms for communication, scheduling, and instructional support.
  • Commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive, and collaborative work environment.
• Preferred:
  • Degree: MFA.
  • Teaching:
    Minimum of 1 year professional teaching experience at the college level.
  • 8 years of professional experience in theatrical audio, sound design, and media production.
  • Experience in higher education or academic theatre production.
  • Knowledge of current trends in audio and media technology, including familiarity with Meyer Galaxy systems and SMAART software.
  • Experience with musical theatre sound reinforcement, including console programming and mic rigging techniques.
  • Experience with grant writing and long‑term technology planning.
  • Familiarity with Canvas.
  • Knowledge of accessibility equipment such as assisted listening technology.

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