Production Assistant Job at Inside Higher Ed in Swarthmore

Job Details

Job no: 495708

Work type: Full Time

Location: Swarthmore

Categories: Staff, Hourly (Non-Exempt), On Campus

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 a strong institutional commitment to inclusive excellence and nondiscrimination in its educational program and employment practices and encourages candidates who will further advance the goal of fostering a diverse and inclusive community. As one of the nation’s finest institutions of higher learning, Swarthmore College is global in outlook and draws students from around the nation and world.

The Opportunity

Reporting to the Technical Director/Production Manager, the Production Assistant supports the Theater Department in the areas of scenic construction, props procurement and construction, lighting, 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.
• 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 will 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 incredible benefits, a stunning 420-acre campus, and a collaborative work environment. Join a team of passionate, creative people who work hard and have fun supporting the college students, faculty, and staff.

Applications are open until filled. 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.

Legal and Clearance Information

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

PA Criminal background check is required for all staff positions prior to the start of employment.

MVR clearance is required prior to the start of employment due to the use of a college owned motor vehicle for essential job responsibilities.