Production Technician The Production Technician is a member of the College Theater team at the Office for the Arts (OFA). The position supports theater activities including management, design, construction, installation, material procurement, and technical operations for student productions and events. Successful candidates will be comfortable working with and supporting innovative student production teams with varying skill levels, have a demonstrated ability to work as part of a team with a variety of projects, vendors, and constituencies in a university environment, and be productive working independently and without immediate supervision. The position reports to the Production Manager and works closely with students, OFA staff, guest artists, and other production personnel. Job-Specific Responsibilities: Undergraduate Production Support and Student Mentorship — 45%Technical Operations, Safety, and Training — 25%Facilities, Equipment, and Inventory — 20%Venue and Production Support — 10%Working Conditions: The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs and objectives and consistent with College Policy, which requires 5 days on-site in Cambridge, MA during term time (first day of classes through commencement), with the exception of student breaks. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University's Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details about the College policy will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.
Physical Requirements:
Ability to lift and carry objects weighing up to 50 pounds; comfort climbing ladders and working at heights.
Qualifications
Basic Qualifications:
A minimum of 4 years of experience in theater, theatrical education or related field.
Additional Qualifications and Skills:
Experience with CAD software, including Vectorworks or AutoCAD.Excellent communication skills, judgment, discretion, and problem-solving ability.
Possession of a valid driver's license.
Ability and willingness to work a varied schedule including evenings and weekends.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively with faculty, students, and staff from diverse backgrounds.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced production environment.
Ability to collaborate, mentor, and advise students with varied skills and backgrounds and to create a safe and inclusive environment.
Proficiency in one or more of the following: carpentry, stage lighting, costume/clothing construction, sound, projections, or related technical theater disciplines.
Comfort and proficiency working with power tools and theatrical equipment, including supervising student or professional use.
Additional Information
Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
Pre-Employment Screening:
Identity
The Office for the Arts at Harvard cultivates a vibrant ecosystem for artmaking, empowering students to live creative and meaningful lives, regardless of experience or career path. Through its programs and services, the OFA mentors and teaches, supports student-led art, connects students with accomplished artists, commissions new works, and forges partnerships across local, national, and global communities. By nurturing students as artists and cultural leaders, the OFA affirms the arts as essential to a Harvard education and champions creativity as a force that enriches society and strengthens the communities we share.
Work Format Details: This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that all duties and responsibilities must be performed at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.
Salary Grade and Ranges: This position is salary grade level 054. Please visit Harvard's Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information.
Benefits:
Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:
- Generous paid time off including parental leave
- Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
- Retirement plans with university contributions
- Wellbeing and mental health resources
- Support for families and caregivers
- Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
- Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks
- Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page.
EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement: Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.
Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.
