Sound, Lighting and Video Supervisor

Sound, Lighting, and Video Supervisor
Loyola University Chicago – Department of Fine and Performing Arts (DFPA)
Location: Lake Shore Campus, Chicago, IL
Position Type: Full-Time Staff

The Department of Fine and Performing Arts (DFPA) at Loyola University Chicago is seeking a Sound, Lighting, and Video Supervisor (SLVS) to join our vibrant, collaborative arts community. This full-time staff position plays a key role in supporting our theatre, dance, and music productions—guiding student technicians, maintaining our performance spaces, and helping our faculty and guest artists bring creative visions to life.

Who We Are

At DFPA, we believe in the power of the arts to transform, inspire, and connect. Our department is home to Theatre, Dance, Music, and Fine Arts programs that share resources and collaborate often. We produce a robust season of plays, concerts, recitals, and interdisciplinary events, and we work closely with undergraduate students who are passionate, curious, and eager to learn.

We’re looking for someone who thrives in a creative environment, loves mentoring students, and brings a strong foundation in technical theatre—especially lighting, sound, and video/projection systems.

What You’ll Do

As the Sound, Lighting, and Video Supervisor, you’ll be our go-to expert for all technical things behind the scenes. You’ll collaborate with faculty, designers, and guest artists, mentor student crews, teach introductory electrics courses, and help maintain and evolve our performance technology.

Here’s a breakdown of your key responsibilities:

Production Support & Collaboration (40%)

• Lead lighting, sound, and projection support for mainstage theatre, dance, and studio shows.
• Serve as Head Electrician for all departmental productions.
• Collaborate closely with designers to bring concepts to life—offering technical guidance and planning support.
• Oversee light hangs, focus calls, cueing, and sound system setups.
• Support faculty and student work from pre-production through tech and strike.
• Attend design and production meetings and participate in a culture of open communication and shared problem-solving.

Student Mentorship & Instruction (20%)

• Teach 1–2 sections per semester of Theatre Practicum: Electrics, a hands-on lab class.
• Guide and mentor students learning about lighting, sound, and backstage tech.
• Train student board ops, electricians, and running crews—building both skill and confidence.
• Support the educational mission of the department by fostering a safe, inclusive, and encouraging learning environment.

Equipment, Systems & Shop Oversight (20%)

• Maintain our lighting, sound, and projection equipment across multiple venues (Newhart Family Theatre, Underground Theatre, Dance Studios, Music Hall, etc.).
• Keep our inventories up to date, organized, and functioning smoothly.
• Troubleshoot and repair equipment; research and plan upgrades.
• Supervise student workers in the Electrics Shop and coordinate work calls.

Concerts, Recitals & Event Support (10%)

• Support Music faculty with technical needs for concerts and recitals, including sound reinforcement, lighting, and recording.
• Train students on live sound mixing and backstage support.
• Coordinate load-ins, tech, and strike schedules for music events.

Event & Facility Coordination (5%)

• Provide technical support for campus and departmental events in spaces like the Mundelein Auditorium and Palm Court.
• Coordinate with campus partners (Facilities, ITS, Event Services) to ensure smooth and safe technical operations.

Administrative & Budget Support (5%)

• Manage purchasing and track budgets related to electrics and technical production.
• Help plan for long-term equipment needs and capital improvements.
• Submit documentation and receipts and assist with financial tracking for productions.

What You Bring

We’re looking for someone who is technically skilled, well-organized, and deeply collaborative. You’ll fit right in if you’re excited about working with students, enjoy problem-solving, and value inclusive, respectful teamwork.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Technical Theatre or a related field (or equivalent professional experience).
• Minimum 2–3 years of professional experience in lighting, sound, or projection work.
• Strong working knowledge of theatrical systems (lighting consoles, audio interfaces, QLab, Lightwright, Vectorworks, etc.).
• Experience mentoring or teaching students and supervising crews.
• Ability to manage multiple projects with care and clarity.
• Comfortable working nights and weekends during production periods.
• Valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle (for off-campus purchases, rentals, etc.).

Preferred Qualities:

• Experience in an academic or educational setting.
• A calm, clear communicator who enjoys helping others learn.
• Commitment to safe practices and inclusive, student-centered work.
• Interest in interdisciplinary collaboration across art forms.

Why Join Us?

You’ll be joining a department where professional practice meets deep student engagement. Our faculty and staff are passionate artists and educators who believe in nurturing emerging talent while producing high-quality performances. The SLVS is a valued member of our team and a key contributor to the creative life of the department.

Loyola University Chicago is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strongly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities who share our commitment to education, the arts, and inclusive excellence.

We’d love to hear from you. If you’re excited by the idea of helping students learn and grow while supporting a dynamic arts season, this could be the right place for you.