Set Designer jobs in Charlotte, NC

POSITION SUMMARY: 

Under the direction of the Program Director and consistent with the Christian mission of the YMCA of Greater Charlotte, the Set Designer will be responsible for creating sets for the theatre program. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 

• Collaborate with the stage manager and set builders to conceptualize, design, and develop the overall look of the production utilizing sketches and software when needed. 
• Read scripts, complete the set layout, order materials, and ensure all actors and staff are briefed on safety and are aware of how the set works. 
• Delegate tasks, developing time schedules, and ordering required materials for the set. 
• Research historical, architectural, and cultural details and incorporating these into the set. 
• Supervise set construction and communicating with set builders.
• Select lighting, furniture, wall and floor coverings, and all other props used on set.
• Produce models for the stage managers approval and implementing changes as required.
• Providing cost estimates and negotiating with vendors to secure the best deals.
• Inspecting stage entrances and exits to ensure the set is positioned correctly, and also performing quality assurance on all aspects of the set.
• Ensure quality age appropriate construction by creating a fun, engaging growth environment that meets the needs of and appropriately challenges every program participant.
• Research historical and architectural details.
• Provide cost and time estimates.  \Create a collaboration of young artists challenging and valuing every student.
• Identify and incorporate appropriate accommodations to serve students of all abilities.
• Instruct set design classes at agreed upon scheduled.
• Implement a high quality showcase highlighting the students’ work for an audience.
• Provide professional and engaging communication to families in person and via email utilizing provided outlines and standards while meeting outlined communication deadlines.
• Insure the health and safety of each participant and maintain a safe and clean program site.
• Be a positive influence and advocate of the arts and the YMCA. 
• Accept the goals and objectives of the YMCA and work to achieve them.
• Take part in all training or in-service activities to develop proficiencies required performing job responsibilities.
• Attend staff meetings, promptly and prepared.
• Be an active participant in program analysis providing constructive and proactive feedback for program adjustments and improvements. 
• Maintain positive relationships, open communication with YMCA personnel, participants, administration and volunteers.
• Assume any other duties as assigned by the YMCA administration. 

YMCA LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES: 

Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Y’s values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs.  

Collaboration: Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and  
perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view, and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively.  

Operational Effectiveness: Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience. 

Personal Growth: Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change, and seeks opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths and limitations and how they impact relationships.  

QUALIFICATIONS: 

• 4 year degree preferably in Visual Arts/Art related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Masters in Theatre / art related field preferred. 
• 5 years practicing the specialized theatre / art form and 5 hours annually of continuing education in theatre / art related field.
• 4 years minimum experience in teaching visual art / art classes for participants of all ages. 
• Keen eye for detail, strong creative vision, and the ability to maturely process criticism.
• Extensive experience working in film, theatre, or television.
• Knowledge of 3D design, architecture, or interior design would be advantageous.
• Excellent creative intelligence and time management skills.
• A good eye for detail and the ability to generate many ideas.
• Experience implementing a showcase or presenting student work to an audience.
• Present a professional image to participants and general public.
• Strong decision making skills, versatility, initiative, and human relation skills.
• Enthusiasm and the ability to work well with participants and develop harmonious relationships with staff, and members.
• Strong organizational and communication skills. 
• Ability to assist in developing and implementing class curriculum in alignment with strategic program goals.  Safety certifications and all trainings and certifications in accordance with the Quality Standards within required timeframe. 

WORKING CONDITIONS: 

• Ability to walk, stand, and sit (including on the floor) for long periods of time. 
• Must be able to lift and carry supplies weighing up to 50 pounds. 
• Ability to stand or sit while maintaining alertness for several hours at a time. 
• Position may require bending, leaning, kneeling, and walking. 
• Ability to speak concisely and effectively communicate. 
• Visual and auditory ability to respond to critical situations and physical ability to act swiftly in an emergency. 
• Ability to view/enter data for long periods of time. 
• Ability to work irregular work hours, including evenings and weekends on occasion. 
• Fluent in English, written and verbal communication.