The Technical Manager provides event development and operation support to MIT Museum users on all technical systems in the presentation spaces of the Museum. The Technical Manager performs a variety of tasks specific to the preparation and implementation of public engagement programs and rentals (including performances, festivals, lectures, film and video screenings). Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, assisting with lighting, video, live sound engineering, basic lighting level setting, and managing all production elements and additional Production Support for museum programming (presentations, performances, and rentals). The position reports maintenance and repair needs and recommends upgrades based on use cases.

This 6-month temporary position will include weekend work and occasional evenings. There is a possibility this 6-month term will be extended.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities (Essential Functions)

• Work with Producer on the planning, preparation, and implementation of technical elements for current and future museum presentations and festivals.
• Artist rider management & contract administration (with appropriate internal & external departments).
• Coordinate event needs with other departments as required.
• Hire, train, and supervise staff, contractors, and vendors, including but not limited to designers, technicians, volunteers, interns, and stage managers to deliver production elements successfully for all presentations.
• Coordinate with Technology Department the maintenance needs for video, audio, and lighting equipment and systems.
• Track loose equipment usage/inventory to ensure all events have equipment necessary to fulfill the technical needs.
• Source & secure rentals for all necessary production equipment including negotiations & contract management.
• Establish and maintain ongoing vendor relations for equipment and staffing.
• Make recommendations to MITM management on upgrades to equipment inventory or venue technical requirements.
• Purchase supplies and equipment where necessary in coordination with management to support presentations, events, and rentals.
• Keep up to date venue technical specifications and operation manuals.
• Prepare event budgets and assist in preparation of organizational budgets as requested and monitor departmental expenses during the year.
• Foster and support a team-oriented environment with the other MITM Staff.
• Serve as the primary contact with rental companies for all matters pertaining to production and technical areas.
• Develop Production deadlines on a per event basis.
• Ensure that renters and users keep to the production deadlines and requirements and theater use schedule, as defined in their contract.
• Security & Safety – Coordinate operations with local officials, and leadership team to ensure a safe experience for participants and visitors in full compliance with site safety & Covid-19 local, state, and federal protocol.
• Legal/Insurance/permit coordination (with appropriate internal & external departments).
• Supervise all production load-ins, deliveries and load-outs.
• Present, review, coordinate and manage all specialized technical requests, including but not limited to, rigging requests, temporary public assembly requests and permit requests as required by the Fire Department or other Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).
• Oversees technical set-up for all special events scheduled in the Museum.
• Other duties as assigned by Producer.

Supervision Received

The Technical Manager will report directly to the Director of Engagement.

Supervision Exercised

The Technical Manager will supervise temporary production crew members and production vendors.

Qualifications & Skills

• 3+ years of experience in production and the hands-on oversight of technical requirements, scheduling, and coordination of events.
• Well-rounded technical theater experience (lighting, audio, staging, video).
• Experience in the hiring and management of designers, technicians, stage managers, crews, volunteers, and support staff.
• Experience supporting multiple projects concurrently, including the development and maintenance of project timelines, scheduling and tracking project progress.
• Excellent written, spoken, communication and organizational skills, and strong interpersonal and networking abilities are required.
• Demonstrated interest and commitment to advancing issues related to diversity, equity, access, and inclusion.
• Demonstrated initiative, flexibility, openness to change and accountability.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and respond to shifting needs.
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record.
• Familiarity with CAD, Vectorworks, or SketchUp and ability to read technical drawings.
• Functional with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Experience and comfort using a Personnel Lift at Heights of 30’-0”.
• Ability to work flexible schedules, including evenings and weekends.
• Degree in technical theater preferred but not required.
  

Physical Demands

While performing the essential functions of this job, the incumbent must be able to do the following:

• Remain in a stationary position for extended periods of time, bend and reach for filing and other job-related functions, ascend/descend stairs/ladders, constantly position oneself to move and retrieve materials under tables or in lower and upper closets, reach both above and below shoulder height, be able to move up to 50 pounds.
• Must be able to visually inspect work. Specific visual abilities include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Adept auditory perception, including closely distinguishing and understanding sound mix and audio levels.
• Ability to operate computer and other office equipment required. Heavy usage of computers and phones required.

The physical demands described above are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made.

As a member of the MIT community, supports MIT’s Non-Discrimination Policy and respectfully interacts with others in the community, and continues to expand their understanding of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion best practices. Represents MIT with professionalism, ethics, integrity, and mutual respect towards colleagues and internal/external clients.

To apply, please submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references to engagement_positions@mit.edu.