Technical Director - 2026

The Contemporary American Theater Festival at Shepherd University is welcoming applications for the position of Technical Director. CATF, leading producer of contemporary plays, is dedicated to telling diverse stories and developing new American theater. The festival premieres or produces multiple plays per season in 3 venues (2 of which perform in rotating repertory). We are committed to supporting the unique needs of new work while fostering an environment of fun and company community. Located an hour from DC, CATF makes its home in one of America’s coolest small towns, Shepherdstown, WV.

CATF’s Technical Direction Department consists of venue specific TD’s who are responsible for realizing the scenic design(s) in their assigned space. Technical Directors will work closely with Festival Management to set the budget for their venues and with the scene shop to schedule, manage, and participate (as able) in the construction of their productions. Technical Directors are supervised by the Festival Technical Director, who assists with build scheduling and materials ordering for all venues. The Technical Direction teams is typically 4 people (three venue TDs, and one Festival TD)

CATF’s designs are often realistic and in close proximity to audiences, so attention to detail is essential. Applicants must have knowledge of modern drafting techniques and multiple styles of set construction (carpentry, welding, etc). Some venues perform in rotating repertory so, experience or education in repertory design is an advantage, but not required if the applicant can clearly demonstrate the ability to think proactively about creative, efficient rep solutions. The festival’s dedication to incubating new work can mean script and design adjustments throughout the build and tech process. CATF values those who are able to collaborate toward practical and artistically-sound solutions in a time-sensitive environment. Flexibility and positivity are key. 

All stages and shops are air conditioned and equipment is well appointed and cared for.

The Technical Director position is seasonal, with remote work starting May 7, and moving to campus around May 21 (flexible). The TD position ends July 12 . All CATF company members are provided free air conditioned housing within walking distance of the theaters and workspaces (also air conditioned) 1-2 meals per day during tech, and free use of University gym, pool, and laundry facilities.

CATF is committed to producing and sharing art in an inclusive, collaborative, anti-racist, and anti-oppressive environment. To learn more about CATF’s anti-racist and anti-oppressive values, visit the ARAO website page. 

Interested applicants should submit a resume and three references (either with your resume, OR in the box below) along with a relevant portfolio (website, PDF, or Shared Drive link). Interviews typically begin in late January and continue through the spring; this posting will remain open until the position(s) have been filled.

Please visit www.catf.org to learn more about us and our upcoming summer season.

CATF is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, nationality, ethnicity, Veteran, or ability status. CATF makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time. If you have any questions or need assistance completing the application, please email us at [email protected].