Job Overview:
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Technical Director to lead the technical execution of world-class events. This role demands a dynamic professional with a deep understanding of audiovisual (AV) systems, lighting, staging, and event production. You will be responsible for overseeing all technical aspects of events, from initial planning to on-site execution, while ensuring innovative solutions, exceptional quality, and seamless delivery. As a key member of the production team, you will work closely with creative, logistical, and technical teams to bring event concepts to life.
Key Responsibilities:
Event Planning & Execution
- Take ownership of all technical aspects of events, including AV, lighting, staging, rigging, and related systems.
- Collaborate with event producers and creative teams to define technical requirements and translate event concepts into actionable production plans.
- Oversee the pre-production, setup, execution, and teardown phases to ensure timely and efficient delivery of all technical elements.
- Develop and maintain comprehensive technical documentation for events, including timelines, equipment lists, and operational plans.
Design Collaboration
- Partner with creative teams to align technical solutions with the artistic vision of events.
- Evaluate the technical feasibility of creative concepts and propose innovative solutions to achieve desired outcomes.
- Utilize CAD software (Vectorworks or similar) to create detailed schematics, including truss structures, stage designs, lighting plots, and CNC machining files.
Team Leadership
- Lead and manage a team of technical specialists, including AV technicians, lighting designers, stagehands, and riggers.
- Provide mentorship and training to team members, fostering a culture of collaboration, creativity, and high performance.
- Ensure effective communication and coordination among all crew members during pre-production and on-site event execution.
Technical Oversight
- Prepare and review technical drawings, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and industry standards.
- Supervise the installation, configuration, and testing of technical systems during event setups.
- Conduct risk assessments to identify potential technical challenges and implement contingency plans.
Vendor Management
- Source and manage relationships with external vendors, negotiating contracts for equipment rentals, technical support, and services.
- Ensure vendors meet quality standards and deadlines while staying within budget constraints.
- Coordinate logistics for equipment transportation, setup, and operation.
Budgeting & Resource Optimization
- Develop and maintain project budgets, ensuring cost-effective solutions without compromising quality.
- Track expenses and provide regular budget updates to stakeholders.
- Optimize resource allocation to meet project goals efficiently.
Troubleshooting & Problem-Solving
- Anticipate potential technical challenges during events and proactively implement solutions.
- Provide on-site technical leadership during events, addressing real-time issues with poise and efficiency.
- Ensure seamless event execution, maintaining a focus on quality and client satisfaction.
Qualifications:
- Minimum of 5+ years of experience in technical direction, event production, or a related field.
- Advanced proficiency in Vectorworks or equivalent CAD software for detailed technical schematics and event layouts.
- Strong knowledge of AV systems, lighting design, rigging, and staging for large-scale events.
- Proven ability to lead and motivate technical crews, fostering a collaborative and results-driven environment.
- Excellent project management skills, with the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with diverse teams and clients.