Props Supervisor

Full Time • $44,000-$46,000

Virginia Repertory Theatre - Richmond
https://va-rep.org/employment/

Description

The Props Supervisor reports to the Production Manager and plays a key role in the implementation of scenic designs across a varied season of programming in multiple venues. The Props Supervisor collaborates with creative and design teams to identify and source furniture, set dressing and props for all productions and events. This position requires a fundamental knowledge of theatrical scenic design, historical periods and design styles, fabrication processes, and a hint of MacGyver style problem solving skills. Work schedules are varied throughout the season and require some evening and weekend hours. 

Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with directors and designers to understand script requirements, design concepts and drafting in order to identify prop needs and generate prop and dressing lists for all productions.

• Deliver rehearsal and final, durable props on schedule and within budget. 

• Manage budgets for each production, to include cost out and expense tracking. 

• Oversee and implement acquisition of all furniture, dressing and props from inventory or retail sources. Fabricate show specific furniture and props that can’t be purchased, including new construction/modification/restoration, painting/finishing, upholstery and sewing draperies as necessary. 

• Organize and maintain the properties inventory, including furniture, dressing and hand props. Collaborate with the Production Electrician on inventory of lighting practicals. 

• Attend and Participate in Design and Production Meetings, rehearsals and performances as required. 

• Supervise and mentor part-time overhire throughout the season. Maintain accurate daily work schedules and task lists to ensure work is completed by deadlines for incorporation into rehearsal and performance. 

• Communicate with stage management throughout the rehearsal process to ensure that rehearsal and performance needs are met.

• Communicate with the creative team to provide necessary inventory, historical and visual research throughout the production process. 

• Participate with the staff in supporting photo shoots, interdepartmental projects and special events as needed throughout the season. 

• Participate in the set-up and upkeep of rehearsal, performance and general workspaces in order to maintain an efficient and safe work environment. 

Qualifications and Desired Skills:

• Personable and culturally competent team player who is committed to collaborating in a safe, friendly and inclusive work environment

• Minimum 3 years of professional production experience in technical theatre, with a focus on scenic and props design and implementation, with demonstrated leadership experience.

• Demonstrated knowledge of theatrical props, including furniture, weapons, consumables, and industry safety procedures.

• Ability to communicate efficiently and clearly across departments and with design personnel.

• Ability to facilitate multiple projects simultaneously, accurately and with attention to detail.  

• Strong artistic sense and organizational skills; analytical thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to respond to changing circumstances quickly and with positivity while meeting deadlines. 

• Knowledge of historical periods and styles accompanied by strong research skills

• Demonstrated construction skills working with wood, metal, casting and other mixed media materials; proficiency with power and hand tools. 

• Demonstrated upholstery and soft goods skills, to include hand stitching and machine sewing.

• Basic painting skills; faux finish painting a plus.

• Working knowledge of Google Drive, Microsoft suite, and design/editing software. 

• Ability to work independently or with a team, follow verbal instruction, and accurately interpret and build from designer drafting. 

• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record, and the ability to drive large vehicles from cargo vans up to box trucks are required.

• Thorough understanding and practice of industry safety and OSHA regulations for live performances, including the ability to identify and correct hazards.

• This work environment requires significant, ongoing work with hands, lifting up to 50 pounds alone, extended periods of standing/bending/kneeling/squatting/sitting, working at heights up to 20’ in lifts and on ladders, working in low light situations and occasional loud environments with audio amplification and power tools in use.

• Positive attitude and desire to work as part of a team.

Please send a cover letter, resume, portfolio, salary history and three references to employment@virginiarep.org with the subject line (your last name) – Props Supervisor.  No phone calls please. 

This is a full time, exempt salaried staff position and is eligible for annual and sick leave, participation in company health, life, dental and vision insurance plans, and retirement plan with company match. Commensurate with experience, the annual salary range for this position is $44,000-$46,000. Employment begins on or around 7/1/26.

 Virginia Repertory Theatre is an equal employment opportunity employer committed to equitable and inclusive hiring practices and constructing an environment centered around anti-racist and anti-oppressive practices in our daily business. We invite applicants of all identities to apply as we continue to build a strong and diverse staff that represents our whole community.

To apply for this job

Send an email with your details to employment@virginiarep.org