Teaching Artist in Props and Scenic Art

University of Pittsburgh Department of Theatre Arts Start Date: Fall 2025Term: One-year appointment, renewable for up to two additional yearsThe University of Pittsburgh’s Department of Theatre Arts is seeking a collaborative, organized, and dependable Teaching Artist with a dual specialization in Properties and Scenic Art. This is a hands-on position, ideal for an early-career artist looking to work closely with students in an educational setting. Position OverviewThe Teaching Artist in Props and Scenic Art will directly support the department’s production and educational missions in two primary areas: Properties:

Serve as the Properties Supervisor for the department’s season, which currently includes four mainstage productions and two student-directed one-acts. Responsibilities include managing the prop shop, supervising student workers, and sourcing, building, or modifying props through purchases, rentals, loans, and fabrication. Scenic Painting: Work alongside faculty Scenic Charge Artists as one of two Paint Shop supervisors. This includes painting scenic elements under the direction of faculty or student scenic designers, mentoring student painters, and maintaining a safe, well-organized paint shop environment. Design opportunities may be available for candidates interested in expanding their creative portfolio.

Key ResponsibilitiesOversee day-to-day operations of the prop shop and coordinate prop needs for departmental productionsSupervise and mentor student workers in both the prop and paint shopsTeach and model practical skills in props construction and scenic paintingContribute to the organization, cleanliness, and safety of all workspacesFoster a supportive and inclusive environment that promotes student learningCollaborate with faculty and production staff to meet production deadlines and artistic goalsDesired QualificationsBA, BFA, or equivalent professional experience in Theatre, Design, or related fieldDemonstrated skills in one or more of the following:

Woodworking, metalworking, upholstery, sewingMold making & casting, paper-mâché, foam carvingScenic painting techniques, including texturing, color mixing, and surface treatmentsExperience managing or mentoring student workersStrong organizational and communication skillsAbility to work collaboratively in a fast-paced educational theatre settingCapacity to lift 25 lbs, climb ladders, and engage in physical work as requiredWhile prior teaching experience is a plus, it is not required. We are particularly interested in candidates who bring a willingness to mentor students and model professional standards in technical theatre and design. Candidates will need to submit a CV, cover letter, and contact information for three professional references.

Theatre ArtsAssignment CategoryFull-time regularBargaining Unit EligibilityThis position may be bargaining unit eligibleCampusPittsburghChild Protection ClearancesNot ApplicableRequired AttachmentsCover Letter, Curriculum Vitae, Other (see posting for additional details)