Cabrillo College
PERFORMING ARTS SPECIALIST
DEFINITION
Under general supervision, coordinates, and performs support work in one or more specialized areas for a
theatrical/musical/dance production including but not limited to lights, sound, scenery, costumes, set
preparation, electrical work, carpentry, painting, and other general production assistance of all kinds.
CLASS CHARACTERISTICS
This classification is an experienced theater/performing arts production specialist, fully competent in the
technical/support aspects of theatrical and performing arts production in a support role. This class is
distinguished from the Performing Arts Technician in that the latter performs overall technical support
aspects for a theatrical production. The Performing Arts Specialist is typically assigned in a production
support role in one or more production support areas (e.g. lights, sound, scenery, costumes, set preparation,
electrical work, carpentry, or painting).
EXAMPLES OF DUTIES (Illustrative Only)
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Confers and works with the artistic director for stage preparation in a designated area such as
costumes, lighting, sound, scenery, etc. (E)
Communicates and works collaboratively with members of the production team to implement
desired production specifications (E)
Creates, procures and maintains theatrical materials (e.g. lighting equipment, costumes, props) in a
designated area during production to ensure materials are stage-ready for each performance (E)
Assists in the implementation of guidelines and procedures related to the safe use and operation of
technical support facilities and equipment for performing arts productions (E)
Oversees the work of student assistants, temporary staff and volunteers in the safe and proper use of
equipment, stage materials and facilities (E)
Coordinates with the Performing Arts Technician and others to ensure the safe operation,
maintenance, and repair of performing arts production equipment and stage materials (E)
Recommends equipment and materials purchase (E)
Orders, issues and maintains records of supplies and equipment (E)
Arranges for the proper use of storage areas (E)
Assists and provides technical direction and support for those using the facilities and equipment (E)
Performs the necessary work in designated area such as constructing sets, creating costumes, etc. (E)
Maintains accurate inventory and use records related to performing arts equipment and materials (E)
Operates standard office and computer equipment to produce correspondence, reports, or other
written material using various software such as email, word processing, and spreadsheets (E)
Works closely with the directors and others to create the desired “look and feel” for publicity photo
shoots and related marketing and promotional materials (E)
Works closely with the Managing Director and others in keeping within the production budget and
guidelines (E)
Attends rehearsals, performances, and meetings as necessary (E)
May require driving for position-related activities (e.g. driving to area organizations for costumes or
props)
Performs related duties as required or assigned
(E) = designates essential functions
Performing Arts Specialist
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QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
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Principles, techniques, methods and equipment used in the technical and design aspects of
performing arts productions
Safe operations, installations, maintenance and repair of theatrical and performing arts equipment
Practices of technical support scheduling for production purposes
Safety procedures and equipment related to the work
Standard office and computer equipment and various software such as email, word processing, and
spreadsheets
Recordkeeping, inventory, storage, and filing practices
Basic supervisory principles and practices
Ability to:
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Apply and utilize the principles, techniques, methods and equipment used in the technical and
design aspects of performing arts productions
Demonstrate effective collaborative skills necessary to ensure optimal theatrical and performing arts
production
Safely operate, maintain and repair a variety of performing arts technical equipment and tools
Instructing others in the technical aspects of performing arts productions
Exercise sound judgment within procedural guidelines
Coordinate multiple projects and meet production-driven deadlines
Maintain an accurate inventory, storage and recordkeeping system
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of the work
Work within an established production budget
Operate a keyboard with sufficient skill to produce correspondence, reports and other written
material using various software such as email, word processing, and spreadsheets
Other Requirements:
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Must be able to work evenings and weekends, depending on rehearsal and performance schedules
Ability to maintain a valid California driver's license and a safe driving record during the course of
employment
Education and Experience:
Equivalent to completion of two years of college with major coursework in technical
theater/performing arts curriculum and two years of experience performing technical support work in the
designated support area.
Please note: Additional experience as outlined above may be substituted for the required education on a
year-for-year basis.
Established: August 1, 2014