Assistant Professor of Scenic Design
The Millikin University School of Theatre and Dance is accepting applications for a full-time tenure track position in Scenic Design to begin in August 2025. Millikin is a small, private, comprehensive university of approximately 1800 students located in Decatur, Illinois. The nationally recognized School of Theatre and Dance is a vibrant and highly visible component of the campus community serving 160 students in five-degree programs including a BA in Theatre and BFAs in Acting, Design and Production, Musical Theatre, and Stage Management. The school is housed in a new $29 million facility, the Center for Theatre and Dance, which opened in 2020. Currently, this position is a visiting line which has been approved to move to a tenure-track position with this hire.
Responsibilities include:
Teach courses in elements of design, drawing/rendering, scenic design, properties design, and scenic painting
Design 1-2 mainstage productions per semester
Supervise stock and equipment in prop shop
Coordinate and supervise paint calls
Supervise and mentor student designers and technicians working in scenic and properties design & fabrication
Attend School of Theatre & Dance, College of Fine Arts, and full faculty meetings
University and School of Theatre & Dance service
Advise undergraduate students through curriculum and mentorship
Required qualifications:
MFA in Scenic Design, Theatre Design, or related field
University level teaching experience
Demonstrated collaborative design and technical experience in university productions, professional theatre, and/or relevant entertainment venues
Demonstrated scenic painting skills
Demonstrated experience with current drawing, rendering, and drafting practices and software, including but not limited to: Hand drafting, traditional drawing & painting, Vectorworks. Adobe Creative Suite, Procreate, AutoCAD, and SketchUp
Desired Qualifications:
Experience teaching diverse student populations
Experience in projection design
Experience in sound design, engineering, or other fields of theatre design and technology
USITT Membership
Teaching and collaborative practices related to Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility
Application Materials:
Letter of Application
Current Curriculum Vitae
Teaching Philosophy including a statement on Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility
3 Professional References
Design Portfolio or Website
Application Deadline: Review of applicants will begin November 18 and will continue until filled.
Employment and first day of work is contingent upon successful completion of background check. Millikin University is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates from traditionally underrepresented groups in this field are encouraged to apply. Beyond meeting fully its legal obligations for non-discrimination, Millikin University is committed to building a diverse and inclusive community where members from all backgrounds can live, learn, and thrive. Millikin offers a competitive salary and full benefits package, including eligibility for tuition waiver.
