The Conservatory of Music at Oberlin College invites applications for the position of Music Theater Sound Designer & Production Coordinator. This is a 12-month continuing, Administrative and Professional Staff appointment beginning on July 1, 2025.
The Oberlin Conservatory of Music, founded in 1865, is the nation’s oldest continuously operating conservatory, and the only major music school in the country linked with a preeminent liberal arts college. Students are enrolled in undergraduate programs leading to the Bachelor of Music in performance, jazz studies, composition, technology in music and related arts, and musicology. Oberlin also offers graduate programs leading to the Master of Music in conducting, the Master of Music in performance on historical instruments, the Master of Fine Arts in piano technology, as well as artist diplomas.
The Music Theater Sound Designer & Production Coordinator will report to the Associate Dean for Artistic Administration and Operations while working closely with the Music Theater department chair and faculty, as well as the Music Theater Coordinator & Production Stage Manager.
Launching in fall 2025, Oberlin’s Music Theater program blends traditional excellence with innovative training for the next generation of music theater stars. This pre-professional, Bachelor of Music degree program combines singing, acting, and dancing coursework alongside a thriving liberal arts environment. With ongoing performance opportunities throughout the year, both on and off campus, the program culminates in an annual showcase in the heart of the music theater world, New York City.
Responsibilities
- Provide sound support for all on and off-campus music theater events, including sound design and live mixing, sourcing sound effects, audio recording and live-streaming, audio routing and monitoring, and event setup and strike;
- Oversee the purchasing, maintenance, and equipment inventory of all music theater audio equipment and classroom technology, including mixing consoles, speakers, video projectors, wireless microphone systems, and other related equipment;
- Coordinate and collaborate with the music theater faculty and a variety of contracted positions on all aspects of music theater production;
- Work with the Music Theater department chair and the Music Theater Coordinator & Production Stage Manager on all scheduling related needs;
- In coordination with the Conservatory Business Manager, track music theater departmental budget and purchasing, including acting as liaison for any third-party rental companies;
- In coordination with the Conservatory Business Manager, create, edit, and execute contracts for third-party vendors, guest artists, and any other music theater department needs;
- Provide technical support for remote lectures and masterclasses, including the implementation of video conferencing technology (Zoom, Google Meet, etc.);
- Act as a member of the Conservatory’s production staff, supporting and assisting the Conservatory as needed with concerts and special events;
- Train, support, and supervise departmental student workers;
- The Music Theater Sound Designer & Production Coordinator may occasionally be asked to teach based on departmental need and the candidate’s area of expertise;
- Other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Theater Sound Design or related field;
- Strong experience in music theater sound design, sound reinforcement systems, and comprehensive knowledge of audio/video recording and streaming systems;
- Strong computer skills including advanced audio and show control software knowledge (Logic Pro, QLab, etc.) as well as Microsoft Word, Excel, Zoom, and Google Workspace;
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills;
- Strong interpersonal and organizational skills, and ability to work effectively on a team;
- Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs., and climb stairs and ladders comfortably;
- Must have a valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle for travel to multiple work locations on and off campus;
- Ability to work a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and some holidays.
Desired Qualifications
MFA in Theater Sound Design or equivalent professional experience
Compensation
Oberlin College offers a competitive compensation package with excellent benefits.
Special Instructions to Applicants
Review of applications will begin on November 18, 2024, and continue until the position is filled. Those received after that date may be considered until the position is filled.
Documents Needed to Apply
Required Documents
- Cover Letter
- List of References
- Resume
Optional Documents
