Props Manager & Resident Props Designer

Description

At Zach, we believe in the power of light—to illuminate new ideas, spark imagination, and bring people together. As Austin’s leading professional producing theater, we create vibrant, intimate theater experiences that engage, inspire, and connect our community. The Properties Manager is responsible for the design, purchasing, and building of all hand and scenic props and dressing for Zach productions. This includes furniture, set dressing, weaponry and consumables for a production as well as special effects in coordination with the Technical Director, including flame/pyrotechnics. Additionally, they are responsible for managing the Props Fabrication shop, its team members (including full-time and overhire artisans), and other duties as assigned by the Director of Production.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• In charge of the on-time and on-budget delivery of all properties for all Zach productions and special events, as assigned by the Director of Production
• Serves as Resident Properties Designer for all Zach productions and coordinates with contracted Scenic Designers on selection of dressing, furniture, and other cross departmental elements
• Schedules and organizes the shopping and construction of properties and set dressings
• In charge of the hiring and scheduling of prop artisans involved with each production
• Collaborates with the Technical Director, Scenic Charge, Manager of Lighting and Video, Stage Operations Supervisor, and Costume Director on cross departmental elements 
• Maintains Props Inventory including digital database and repair and maintenance of all goods
• Oversees the properties rental program to internal and external clients
• Participates in mandatory technical rehearsals and previews 
• Participates in all Production Meetings, Staff Meetings, and Notes Meetings as assigned by the Director of Production

Requirements

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Technical Production or Design with 2 years professional producing theater experience; or a combination of experience yielding commensurate expertise (Required)
• 4 Years of Professional Experience in theatre with 2 Years of experience as Properties Manager or Designer (Preferred)
• Experience driving a box truck or trailer (Preferred)

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: 

• Demonstrates planning and organizational skills
• Demonstrates knowledge of MS Office including MS Word, Excel, Power Point, and Outlook
• Ability to multitask, set priorities, meet deadlines, and manage personnel and projects
• Ability to accurately budget and track expenses for prop needs
• Ability to work independently or as part of a team, build collaborative relationships, and assist other departments as needed
• Ability to communicate orally and in writing
• Ability to interact with all levels of the organization and handle change effectively
• Thorough knowledge of Art and Architecture history including furniture and motifs
• Ability to successfully collaborate with scenic designers to achieve the production’s vision
• Shows evidence of finding creative solutions, possesses a high aesthetic standard, and solves problems resourcefully
• Thorough knowledge of construction materials including plastics and epoxies
• Thorough knowledge of construction techniques and materials including wood, steel, plastics, foam, molds, epoxies and soft goods
• Demonstrates knowledge of small motors, pneumatics, hydraulics and electronics
• Basic understanding of costume history
• Knowledge of pyrotechnics, special effects, and flame special effects
• Knowledge of Photoshop, Illustrator, or equivalent photo editing software
• Demonstrated ability to use basic hand and power tools
• Knowledge of safety regulations and best practice
• Deals with Change Effectively
• Ability to perform all work with a direct reflection of the vision, mission, and values of Zach Theater

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT: 

This is a campus-based, on-site role. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions upon discussion with HR. 

• Ability to lift, push, pull, or maneuver up to 70 lbs repeatedly, alone or with assistance
• Must have reliable transportation and the ability to work a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends and holidays and/or on call based on production needs
• The noise level in this work environment is typically moderate and can be high.

ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS:

Reports to: Director of Production

Supervises (if any): Properties Staff

Supports: Production, Development, Education, Rentals

Peer collaboration/communicates with: Technical Director, Costume Shop Manager, Stage Operations Manager, Lighting Supervisor, Directors, Stage Managers, and other members of the Production Team

PAY:

Beginning salary starting at $58,000 - $65,000 annually commensurate with experience and qualifications. New hires are typically brought into the organization between the minimum and midpoint of the range posted depending upon qualifications, years of experience in a similar role, internal equity, and the budgeted amount for the role. 

All offers of employment are conditional pending the successful completion of background and reference checks.

We’re excited to review your application. To ensure a smooth and fair hiring process, please apply online only. We’re not able to accommodate phone calls or in-person visits about this position. 

Some of the great benefits available to Zach Employees:

• Affordable Healthcare Coverage for Full-Time Employees and their Dependents
• Employer Paid Life and AD&D insurance
• Employer Paid Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• 401K Matching Program
• Vacation, Sick, and Personal Time
• Paid Holidays
• Free Parking
• Tickets to Mainstage and Family Series shows and enrollment in Camps/Classes

Zach Theater is committed to ensuring an equitable and inclusive workforce and we strive for a team that reflects Austin’s diverse culture. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, sex or age.