Sound Supervisor

Sound Supervisor (Arts Lab Technician)

USC School of Dramatic Arts

The USC School of Dramatic Arts (SDA) seeks an experienced Sound Supervisor to join its Production Area.  We are looking for an energetic colleague to oversee sound design labs and implementation of designs on School of Dramatic Arts productions.

Reporting to the Head of Sound Design and Director of Production, an individual in the Sound Supervisor role will show a history of success in setting goals and completing projects with a high degree of independence while exercising good judgment.  The individual must work well under pressure and multi-task in a fast-paced environment, especially during peak times of the year.

The Sound Supervisor aids in implementing theatrical production in a multi-stage and multi-use environment with a special attention to sound equipment. Sound Supervisor is responsible for the safe and timely implementation of sound inventory in SDA performance spaces and oversight of student crews and inventory management. Sound Supervisor will also teach portions of THTR 131 and 236 classes; and will mentor students in THTR 397 & 497 design assignments as needed. Sound Supervisor will oversee the operation and maintenance of the sound design lab spaces. Sound Supervisor will oversee recording of voiceover (VO) students in the MCC VO Lab.

Qualifications:

• BA or BFA in theatre and experience in theatre stagecraft and theatre production or equivalent professional work in theatrical sound production.
• Knowledge of theatrical production, stage management and stage equipment such as fly systems, rigging, electricity, lighting, and sound.
• Q-Lab, Vectorworks, Pro-Tools experience as well as familiarity with Yamaha Digital Mixers is a plus.

Skills:

• Communicate effectively, both verbal and written, with a diverse population of staff, facility users, and student stage crews
• Prioritize tasks to complete different projects with various deadlines
• Self-motivation and autonomy are essential
• Ability to lift and carry 70 pounds
• Safely use and work on ladders, personnel lifts, and catwalk areas
• Safely work in low-light or no-light environments
• Safely operate departmental vehicles with a valid State Driver’s license

Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support sound design students and guest sound designers in implementing designs for SDA shows.
• Some sound design teaching and mentorship work
• Maintain a clean and safe workspace
• Oversee the operation and maintenance of SDA sound design labs, and SDA sound equipment inventory
• Assist designers and sound operators during run-throughs and technical rehearsals
• Oversees recording of voiceover students in the MCC VO Lab

The University reserves the right to add or change responsibilities at any time.

Additional Information:

This position is required to work evenings, weekends and holidays, depending upon the production schedule. Regular work hours during the production season are Thursday through Monday 3:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., though subject to change as necessary. Off-season work hours are Monday through Friday10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Overtime will be required.

The USC School of Dramatic Arts, founded in 1945, is recognized internationally as a leader in theatre education.  The School offers innovated programs and curricula in acting, playwriting, design, critical studies, sound design, stage management and technical direction.  With a faculty of artists working at the highest level of their profession, the School offers BA, BFA and MFA degrees and has an active production program of more than 20 shows with a population of 550 undergraduate and graduate students combined.

The University of Southern California (USC), founded in 1880, is located in the heart of downtown L.A. and is the largest private employer in the City of Los Angeles. As an employee of USC, you will be a part of a world-class research university and a member of the “Trojan Family,” which is comprised of the faculty, students and staff that make the university what it is.

USC is proudly pluralistic and committed to providing equal opportunity for outstanding individuals. USC actively seeks nominations of applications from qualified persons and from the broadest possible community. The School of Dramatic Arts is interested in receiving applications from those who enhance the diversity of its workforce. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates who are eligible to work in the United States. However, we are unable to sponsor employment visas for this position. Please note the following visa categories do not qualify for unrestricted work authorization: B, H-1B, TN, E-3, E-2 Principle, O-1, P-1, nor L-1.

The University of Southern California values diversity and is committed to equal opportunity in employment.