Part-Time Props Manager and Scenic Charge

The Position:

Part-Time Props Manager and Scenic Charge

Job Summary:

Under the supervision of the Technical Direction Team and Production Manager  the Part-Time Props Manager and Scenic Charge provides critical technical and artistic support to fulfill properties management and scenic artistry duties for Theatre & Dance. This role oversees the sourcing, creation, and management of all production props, while leading the scenic painting and texturing needs for departmental mainstage productions. This position directly supports a student-centered production season, with a schedule heavily tied to production calendars, build deadlines, and shop hours. 

Properties Management

• Source, build, buy, or rent all props for mainstage theatre and dance productions.
• Collaborate closely with directors, scenic designers, and/or technical director teams to meet artistic visions.
• Manage the props budget and maintain meticulous expense tracking and receipts.
• Maintain and organize the college's prop storage facilities and inventory.
• Attend production meetings, tech rehearsals, and strike as required. 

Scenic Artistry (Scenic Charge)

• Mix paints and apply textures to execute specific finishes (faux wood, stone, drops).
• Interpret designer elevations and scale drawings accurately.
• Supervise and mentor student crews during paint calls and shop hours.
• Maintain the paint shop, including inventory, safety equipment, and SDS sheets.
• Ensure safe handling and proper disposal of all chemical and paint products. 

The College & Surrounding Area: Founded in 1848, Muhlenberg College is a private, residential, liberal arts college offering baccalaureate and graduate programs. At Muhlenberg, we are committed to a campus community that ensures students, faculty, and staff of all backgrounds feel welcome, respected, valued and included. The College provides an intensely challenging, supportive environment centered around a rigorous academic curriculum designed to prepare students for lives of leadership and meaning in a dynamic, global society. The academic program is amplified by a range of innovative programming: comprehensive and intentional residence-life programming, expansive experiential learning requirements, and an innovative coaching program designed to maximize every student’s performance and potential.

Part of eastern Pennsylvania’s scenic Lehigh Valley, Allentown is a diverse city of 125,000, Pennsylvania’s third-largest, located just 60 miles north of Philadelphia and 90 miles west of New York City. The Lehigh Valley, which also includes neighboring cities Bethlehem and Easton, is one of the fastest growing regions in the state and the Northeast, leading Pennsylvania in population growth for people aged 18–34. Home to a vibrant arts scene, extensive parks and recreational opportunities, a rich blend of diverse cuisine, and so much more, visit Life in the Lehigh Valley | Muhlenberg College and check out Allentown here.

Qualifications & Skills

While no one person may possess all the qualifications listed below, the ideal candidate will have many of the following professional experiences and characteristics:

• Proficiency in carpentry, crafts, upholstery, and various paint techniques.
• Ability to teach, manage, and motivate undergraduate student workers safely.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to collaborate with diverse creative teams.
• Must be able to lift 50 lbs, climb ladders, and work with respirators.
• Ability to work a flexible, fluctuating schedule that includes regular nights and weekends aligned with theatrical production calendars. 
• Demonstrated commitment to fostering an inclusive academic and professional environment where all members of our campus community are respected, valued, can succeed, and thrive.
• Successful completion of satisfactory background checks including but not limited to education verification, criminal background, and child abuse clearance.

To apply, upload your complete application package as a single PDF document. A complete application package includes: 1) cover letter; 2) resume; 3) a separate statement speaking to how your professional experience will contribute to a more inclusive community at Muhlenberg; and 4) names/contact information for three professional references. Application review may continue until the position is filled. To initiate your application, use the APPLY

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An Equal Opportunity Employer, Muhlenberg College is committed to valuing and enhancing diversity and encourages applications from individuals who can contribute to the diversity of our community. Muhlenberg College does not discriminate against any person based on age, ancestry, color, disability, gender, gender identity, genetics, national or ethnic origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, veteran status or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local laws, in its education programs and activities, including admissions and employment. Muhlenberg College does not discriminate on the basis of sex as required by Title IX.

Legal Notice

Muhlenberg College Annual Crime Reporting- As provided by the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act of 1998, prospective employees of Muhlenberg College are entitled to request and receive a copy of the College Annual Security Report (ASR). The ASR can be accessed at http://www.muhlenberg.edu/annualsecurityreport . This report includes crime statistics on certain reportable crimes, as well as Muhlenberg College Safety Policies. The report also includes institutional policies concerning campus safety and police, such as policies concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault and other matters. Anyone wishing a paper copy of the ASR may contact the Campus Safety Office at 484-664-3112.