The Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln invites applications for an Assistant Professor of Practice – Theatre (Technical Director) to join our dynamic program during an exciting period of transformation and growth. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of entertainment design and production education while working at the intersection of traditional theatrical craft and cutting-edge digital media technologies.

As we are preparing to launch our newly re-invented Entertainment Design and Production BFA program and continue to foster our thriving MFA program, we seek a visionary technical leader who thrives in interdisciplinary environments and is passionate about preparing students for the evolving landscape of live and mediated entertainment.

The successful candidate will have a comprehensive knowledge of scenic construction and engineering, rigging and safety including knowledge in craft and properties. Experience with entertainment technology including Vectorworks, AutoCAD, automation and other show control systems, 3D printing and CNC fabrications technologies. The candidate will be committed to practice-based learning, have an understanding of how traditional craft knowledge informs and enhances digital innovation, have a passion for interdisciplinary collaboration and a dedication to preparing students for current and future career paths. The candidate will enthusiastically explore new technologies and methodologies, be comfortable with ambiguity, be able to thrive during transformation and have an interest in contributing to the development of new pedagogical approaches. Willingness to engage with online platforms and digital curriculum development is a must. The successful candidate will be experienced in managing complex technical operations, have the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, students, faculty, staff and industry partners, have a track record of successful project management and have a vision for the future evolution of technical theatre education in order to meet changing industry demands.

The Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film is expanding beyond traditional boundaries to embrace the convergence of live performance, film, digital media, and emerging technologies. Our Technical Director will be instrumental in guiding this transformation, helping to establish new pedagogical approaches that reflect industry innovation while honoring the foundational principles of theatrical craft.

This position is uniquely positioned to foster campus-wide interdisciplinary collaboration, particularly with our close partnership with the Johnny Carson Center for Emerging Media Arts. Together, they create a comprehensive ecosystem where students explore the full spectrum of entertainment design—from traditional stagecraft to virtual production, motion capture, interactive media, and immersive storytelling technologies.

Nebraska offers an attractive compensation and benefits package, commensurate with the successful candidate's background and experience. Faculty status with opportunities for promotion in rank and sabbatical opportunities for continued learning and professional development are additional key benefits.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Leadership and Innovation

Educational Excellence

Facility Development and Management

Professional Engagement and Industry Connection

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment. See https://equity.unl.edu/notice-nondiscrimination/.