Technical Coordinator

About the Job Unit: Weber Music Hall Reports to: Dean of the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences (CAHSS)Appointment: Full-time, 12-month Position SummaryThe Technical Coordinator will lead and manage all technical operations, maintenance, and design support for the Weber Music Hall at the University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD). This role ensures that production infrastructure, technical staff, and collaborative processes support high-quality educational, artistic, and community programs. The successful candidate will be equally comfortable in administrative, leadership, and hands-on technical capacities.Priority consideration will be given to local candidates. Key ResponsibilitiesTechnical Leadership & Production SupportOversee design, installation, maintenance, and operation of all technical systems (lighting, sound, rigging, stage systems, audio-visual, automation).Serve as technical supervisor or advisor for departmental productions, guest artists, touring companies, and external rentals.Troubleshoot complex technical scenarios and develop practical, cost-effective solutions.Plan and manage production turnarounds, load-ins, and strike procedures.Staffing, Training & SupervisionHire, supervise, and evaluate technical staff, casual employees, student technicians, and interns.Develop training programs for student staff to build proficiency in safe and efficient technical practices.Promote a culture of professionalism, safety, and continuous learning.Maintenance, Safety & ComplianceMaintain all technical equipment and infrastructure to ensure reliability and longevity.Implement and enforce safety standards (OSHA, fire codes, rigging protocols, lockout/tagout, etc.).Conduct regular inspections, preventative maintenance, and document repairs or upgrades.Develop and manage emergency and contingency plans (e.g., power outages, equipment failures, evacuation).Budget, Procurement & Resource ManagementPrepare and manage the technical department’s operating and capital budgets.Evaluate when to repair versus replace equipment; initiate capital proposals for upgrades.Solicit, evaluate, and negotiate with vendors for technical equipment, consumables, and services.Track inventory, consumables, and spare parts, and manage supply ordering.Collaboration & Liaison WorkServe as the primary technical liaison between the music faculty, guest artists, external users, and the technical team.Translate and negotiate between artistic, academic, and technical requirements.Participate in departmental and institutional planning, contributing to facility scheduling, renewal, and expansion discussions.Foster positive working relationships with UMD’s facilities, event services, campus safety, and external partners.Strategic Vision & InnovationAssess and recommend technological enhancements and upgrades.Champion sustainable practices and energy-efficient solutions in the technical domain.Engage with emerging trends (e.g., immersive sound, automation, projection, remote production) to keep UMD’s facilities competitive and pedagogically relevant.Mentor and develop future technical leaders, including integrating student-led innovation projects.Work Environment & RequirementsOccasional exposure to elevated work, rigging, and confined spaces.Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs, climb ladders, and perform technical tasks in dark or physically constrained areas.Regular evening and weekend presence in support of performances, rehearsals, and special events.Occasional travel to adopt best practices or attend conferences. Qualifications Minimum QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Theatre Technology, Technical Production, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience) plus at least four years of experience or a combination of related education and work experience to equal at least eight years.At least 5 years of progressively responsible experience in theatrical or concert technical direction, preferably in academic or performing arts environments.Demonstrated expertise in lighting, sound, rigging, stage automation, and AV systems.Experience supervising staff and student teams, with strong training and mentorship skills.Working knowledge of safety standards—OSHA, fire codes, rigging, electrical safety.Strong budgeting, procurement, and financial oversight experience.Excellent communication skills; ability to engage effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders.Flexibility to respond to emergencies, evening/weekend work, and production demands.Preferred QualificationsAdvanced degree in Theatre Technology, Entertainment Engineering, or related discipline.Familiarity with digital consoles, networked AV systems, and control automation.Track record of implementing sustainable, energy-efficient solutions in technical settings.Experience with fundraising or helping secure external grants for technical upgrades. About the Department About Weber Music Hall & UMDWeber Music Hall is UMD’s premier performance venue, hosting a wide range of musical, theatrical, and interdisciplinary performances. The Technical Coordinator will join an energetic, forward-looking arts community committed to artistic excellence, student involvement, and inclusive access to the arts.UMD is located in Duluth, Minnesota, between Lake Superior and the North Shore. The region is known for its scenic beauty, vibrant arts scene, outdoor recreation, and friendly university-town atmosphere. Pay and Benefits Pay Range: $27.12 per hour ($56,409 annually) to $35.93 per hour ($74,734 annually); depending on education/qualifications/experienceTime Appointment: 100% AppointmentPosition Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff