Head Technician at the Claire Tow Theater

Position Overview

Head Technician at the Claire Tow Theater (Lincoln Center Theater)

Lincoln Center Theater has produced over 200 plays and musicals at the Vivian Beaumont, Mitzi E. Newhouse, and Claire Tow Theaters at Lincoln Center and other venues both on and off-Broadway, as well as touring productions nationally and around the world. LCT is committed to developing and producing both new works and classics with an emphasis on emerging playwrights, directors, and designers. The organization also reaches thousands of public-school students annually through its education program, Open Stages.

In this role, the Head Technician is a key member of the theater’s operations and production team. Responsible for the technical infrastructure and support for both in-house and rental productions, the candidate will oversee lighting, sound, rigging, projection, and other related systems. This position also involves venue maintenance and supervision of technical crews to ensure safe, efficient, and high‐quality production experiences in the 112-seat space. Note: The candidate must be a Local 1 Union member.

Key Responsibilities

• Report to, and collaborate with LCT’s Production Management team.
• Serve as the lead technician for all productions and events: oversee load-in, set-up, tech rehearsals, show running, and strike/load-out.
• Manage and maintain the theater’s technical systems (lighting, audio, rigging, projection/video, house systems) to ensure reliability, safety, and code compliance.
• Consult with directors/designers and coordinate with hired crews.
• Supervise, train, and schedule technical staff for productions and venue operations.
• Maintain inventory of technical equipment; recommend purchases, upgrades or rentals; and manage the budget for technical supplies.
• Develop and enforce safety protocols, rigging and electrical standards to maintain a safe working environment backstage and in-house.
• Collaborate with facility maintenance, building staff, and vendors for theater infrastructure (e.g., electrical panels, HVAC, rigging inspections) to ensure venue readiness.
• Oversee technical requirements for rentals and visiting companies by reviewing technical riders, coordinating scheduling, and managing house tech crew interactions.
• Troubleshoot issues during performances and respond promptly to technical challenges to keep shows running.
• Participate in production meetings and contribute to planning schedules and the technical calendar.
• Handle administrative tasks related to the technical department including timekeeping, crew scheduling, reporting, and documentation of systems.

Required Qualifications

• Must be a Local 1 Union member.
• Minimum of 4 years of professional experience in theater technical production or equivalent, including experience with lighting, sound, rigging, and projection/video systems.
• Proven ability to operate lighting and sound consoles and a strong understanding of rigging/automation and stage mechanics.
• Strong knowledge of safety standards for theater rigging, electrical systems, and venue operations.
• Demonstrated leadership experience in supervising technical crews and collaborating with creative teams, visiting technicians, or rental clients.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to perform under pressure during tight load-ins or unexpected technical issues.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills to interface effectively with artistic staff, management, and maintenance teams.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and occasional holidays.
• Physical capability to handle rigging, lift equipment, and work at heights when necessary.

Preferred Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Theater Technology, Production, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Experience with nonprofit theater operations, rentals, and small to mid-sized performance venues.
• Familiarity with New York City building/fire codes as they apply to performance venues and experience working with outside vendors/contractors.

Benefits & Perks

• Be part of a mission-driven nonprofit performance venue in New York City, supporting diverse arts and community programming.
• Lead and build the technical backbone of a beautifully intimate 112-seat house.
• Engage with an eclectic mix of productions encompassing theatre, dance, film, community events, and rentals.
• Opportunity for professional growth, creative collaboration, and a front-row seat to exciting live performances.