Washington Community Theater: Theater Manager/Technical Director

The Washington Community Theater, located in Washington, Iowa, is an endowment-supported, 520-seat non-profit community theater celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2026, is seeking a Theater Manager/Technical Director. This full-time, flexible role is the operational and creative backbone of the theater, ensuring smooth daily, technical, and promotional functions. The position requires a blend of hands-on technical work, facility management, publicity coordination, and leadership, with evening and weekend availability for rehearsals, performances, and other theater activities.

 

 Qualifications:

  • Proven experience in theater management, stage management, and technical theater.
  • Strong organizational, multitasking, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
  • Proficient in marketing and public relations tools (social media, basic graphic design preferred).
  • Familiarity with theater lighting and basic sound systems, and general facility maintenance.
  • Ability to work nights and weekends with flexible scheduling.
  • Passion for community theater, education, and performing arts.

 Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds.
  • Ability to climb ladders, operate lifts, and perform basic manual labor.
  • Ability to remain standing or walking for extended periods during events.

  Key Responsibilities:

 

I. Theater Operations & Management

  • Act as the primary onsite supervisor for all theater activities (rehearsals, performances, rentals).
  • Monitor and maintain the physical condition of the entire facility, initiating repairs or maintenance as needed.
  • Liaise with contractors and custodial services for maintenance, inspections, and improvements.
  • Ensure compliance with fire codes, safety regulations, and accessibility standards.
  • Schedule building usage for rehearsals, performances, rentals, and special events.
  • Track and report facility and equipment expenses 
  • Manage rental contracts and agreements for outside groups.

II. Technical Direction & Production Support

  • Design or oversee lighting plots and operate or supervise lighting equipment for performances.
  • Coordinate basic sound system needs (microphones, speakers, recorded tracks).
  • Maintain all technical equipment, ensuring it is inventoried, functional, and up to date.
  • Support set building, load-ins, and strikes.
  • Serve as house manager during performances, supervising front-of-house staff/volunteers.
  • Collaborate with directors and producers on production timelines, technical rehearsals, and venue access.
  • Maintain communication among staff, volunteers, and production teams for smooth logistics.

III. Marketing & Community Engagement

  • Assist with box office operations as needed (ticket sales, patron services).
  • Manage and update the theater's website, social media accounts, and email communications.
  • Foster a welcoming and inclusive environment for all participants, patrons, and volunteers.
  • Recruit, train, and supervise volunteer teams (ushers, box office, concessions, tech support).

Compensation: Commensurate with experience- minimum $50,000 starting salary

Submit letter of interest and resume with references to wctheater@gmail.com