Production Assistant Job at Inside Higher Ed in Swarthmore

Overview

Join to apply for the Production Assistant role at Inside Higher Ed.

4 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants

Get AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features.

Job details

• Job no: 495708
• Work type: Full Time
• Location: Swarthmore
• Categories: Staff, Hourly (Non-Exempt), On Campus

About Swarthmore College

Swarthmore College is a highly selective liberal arts college located in the suburbs of Philadelphia, whose mission combines academic rigor with social responsibility. Swarthmore has an institutional commitment to inclusive excellence and nondiscrimination in its educational program and employment practices.

What We Do

At Swarthmore, we combine a rigorous liberal arts education with a practical exploration of performance that emphasizes experimentation and collaboration. The Department values engagement with both scripted and devised work, and seeks to involve students in all aspects of production. The department aims to nourish each student’s talents and encourage connections between theater, other disciplines, their lived experience, and the world at large.

The Opportunity

Reporting to the Technical Director/Production Manager, the Production Assistant supports the Theater Department in scenic construction, props procurement and construction, lighting, and sound engineering. This position works a 35 hour per week schedule during the academic year, August 15 through May 14; benefits continue during the summer months.

Essential Responsibilities

• Production support as needed in any combination of the following areas:
• Scenic carpentry
• Scene painting
• Stage management
• Properties
• Lighting
• Sound engineering

• Related to the primary duties above are the following responsibilities as needed in relation to the Theater Department’s production curriculum, Cooper Foundation events sponsored by the Department of Theater, and Swarthmore Project residencies:
• Follow department financial protocols regarding budgeting, reimbursements, and record-keeping in consultation with appropriate faculty, staff, and administrative assistants
• Monitor and purchase supplies as necessary in support of production program
• Run errands off campus with college vehicle
• Work with scene shop tools and equipment as well as with lighting, sound and projection equipment in the Frear Ensemble Theater and Matchbox Studio
• Work with essential software and related technologies, including Q-Lab, Vectorworks, etc.
• Act as lead during work calls

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Theater, Dance, or a related field and/or an equivalent combination of education and/or professional experience.
• Strong organization and communication skills
• Ability to handle multiple tasks, to work under deadlines, and to prioritize workload
• Ability to work independently as well as under direct supervision
• Experience working with and supporting a diverse community or artist, students, and technicians.
• Valid driver’s license
• Reliable transportation

Physical Demands

• Moderate to high level of noise in shop
• Prolonged periods of time standing
• Able to lift up to 50 pounds
• Frequent bending, pushing, pulling, reaching, lifting, walking

Working Conditions

• Position includes both regularly scheduled shop hours and evening and weekend work as necessary for a total average of 35 hours per week for nine months per year.
• Weekly schedules may vary due to the department’s work flow for productions and may include nights and weekends.

What You Will Get

You’ll work at one of the world’s most renowned liberal arts Colleges, with benefits, a 420-acre campus, and a collaborative work environment. Join a team of passionate, creative people who support the College students, faculty, and staff.

Application Details

For full consideration, submit applications with an uploaded resume, including an optional cover letter, by September 30, 2025. Applications received after this date may be reviewed on a rolling basis until the job has been filled. Include a cover letter explaining how your qualifications meet the role. If applicable, include detailed explanations of any preferred qualifications in the cover letter.

Compensation

The market range for this position is $24.00-$30.00 per hour, which represents the College’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range at the time of posting. Final salary is based on experience, education, department budget, and internal equity.

Clearance and Compliance

• PA Criminal Clearance Required
• MVR Clearance Required By Position

Equal Opportunity

Swarthmore College is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply.

Advertised: Sep 09 2025 Eastern Daylight Time

Applications close: Open until filled