Working at Zach

At Zach, we believe in the power of light—to illuminate new ideas, spark imagination, and bring people together. As Austin’s leading professional producing theater, we create vibrant, intimate theater experiences that engage, inspire, and connect our community. The Assistant Technical Director is a vital member of the technical design team, serving as the primary draftsperson (2D and 3D CAD) for all Zach productions and special events; articulating construction methodology, rigging specifications, and critical technical solutions for the Scenic and Paint departments. This role assists the Technical Director in the budgeting, preparation, assembly, load-in, and load-out process for all Zach productions and in the daily operation of Zach’s Scenic Studios.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Responsible for producing 2D and 3D AutoCAD Drawings for all Zach Scenic Studios builds, including construction and technical drawings, load in/out drawings, truck packs, and other critical CAD-based documentation for the Scenic and Paint shops or other projects assigned by the Technical Director 
• Assists in accurately budgeting materials and labor for each Zach production as directed by the Technical Director based on scenic drawings and renderings, including preparation of budget templates and build, load-in, and load-out schedules
• Assists in acquiring materials and special-order products and equipment with ample lead time on Zach production and various special projects
• Maintains a safety-oriented work environment while cultivating safe work practices in the shop and theaters during load-in, load out, day-to-day operations, and in the technical design of scenery from construction to assembly and load-in processes
• Facilitates clear and effective communication between the Technical Director, the Scenic Studios Supervisor, and shop staff, ensuring the carpenters, painters, and artisans understand each project's full design needs through various modes of communication: drawings, written, and verbal
• Works with the Technical Director and shop staff in backlog creation meetings to ensure all scope estimations from the team are aligned with the build schedule and deadlines
• Serves as a critical and timely member of quality control processes, reconciling fabrication with construction drawings and installation with designs
• Assists the Scenic Studios Supervisor with planning and follow through of scene shop and facilities improvements for the production department and special projects as assigned by the Technical Director.
• Supports the Technical Director in leading daily stand ups and overseeing daily operations, load-ins, load outs,
• Attend design and production meetings, technical and dress rehearsal, and other meetings/events as directed by the Technical Director
• Assists the Scenic Studios Supervisor in the maintenance and implementation of the Scenic Studios FIFO Materials Inventory and MSDS books
• Attends and participates in all production  planning, review, and retrospective meetings
• Works with the team to help remove procedural impediments in the build process
• Supports internal departments in the scheduling, logistics, and technical requirements of special events and rentals

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Technical Theater, Technical Direction, or a related field preferred, 2 years of professional theatrical technical design experience or 3 years of professional theatrical construction experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. MFA in Technical Direction or related field preferred.
• 3 years of experience using AutoCAD for drafting and 3D modeling
• Experience working in MS Office including MS Word, Excel, and Google Suite
• Experience working with automation equipment (Creative Connors), theatrical rigging and counterweight fly systems, and scenic painting 
• Valid Driver’s License and the ability to operate cargo vans and box trucks 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: 

• Advanced knowledge of theatrical construction methods, scenic drafting standards, rigging systems, and industry safety practices
• Advanced AutoCAD drafting and 3D modeling skills with the ability to translate artistic designs into buildable technical solutions
• Strong project management, budgeting, scheduling, and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple productions and deadlines simultaneously
• Excellent verbal, written, and visual communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across production departments
• Demonstrated creative problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt quickly in fast-paced, high-pressure production environments
• Skilled in reading, interpreting, and reconciling scenic, construction, and rigging drawings throughout fabrication and installation processes
• Ability to lead and support collaborative teams while fostering a safe, inclusive, and solutions-oriented work environment
• Proficiency in Google Suite and Microsoft Office, including spreadsheet management and production documentation
• Ability to perform all work with a direct reflection of the vision, mission, and values of Zach Theater

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT: 

• This is a campus-based, on-site role. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions upon discussion with HR. 
• Ability to lift, push, pull, or maneuver up to 70 lbs repeatedly, alone or with assistance
• Comfortable working on ladders, mechanical lifts, or other high places
• Comfortable working in confined spaces
• Comfortable working in temperatures sometimes exceeding 95 degrees
• The noise level in this work environment is typically moderate and can be high.
• Must have reliable transportation and the ability to work nights and weekends as communicated through our schedule planning

ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS:

Reports to: Technical Director

Supervises (if any): None

Supports: Production

Peer collaboration/communicates with: Producing Artistic Director, Director of Production, Scenic Designer, Technical Director, Scenic Studios Supervisor, Scenic Charge Artist, Overhire and other production staff on cross departmental elements

PAY:

Beginning salary starting at $49,000-57,000 annually commensurate with experience and qualifications. New hires are typically brought into the organization between the minimum and midpoint of the range posted depending upon qualifications, years of experience in a similar role, internal equity, and the budgeted amount for the role. 

All offers of employment are conditional pending the successful completion of background and reference checks.

We’re excited to review your application. To ensure a smooth and fair hiring process, please apply online only. We’re not able to accommodate phone calls or in-person visits about this position. 

Some of the great benefits available to Zach Employees:

• Affordable Healthcare Coverage for Full-Time Employees and their Dependents
• Employer Paid Life and AD&D insurance
• Employer Paid Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• 401K Matching Program
• Vacation, Sick, and Personal Time
• Paid Holidays
• Free Parking
• Tickets to Mainstage and Family Series shows and enrollment in Camps/Classes

Zach Theater is committed to ensuring an equitable and inclusive workforce and we strive for a team that reflects Austin’s diverse culture. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, sex or age. 

Position Title:  Grants Officer

Employment Status:  Full-Time

FLSA Status:  Exempt

ABOUT ZACH:

At Zach, we believe in the power of light—to illuminate new ideas, spark imagination, and bring people together. As Austin’s leading professional producing theater, we create vibrant, intimate theater experiences that engage, inspire, and connect our community. We believe great theater should be accessible to everyone and are committed to building meaningful relationships with donors and partners who help make our mission possible.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Grants Officer leads Zach's foundation and government fundraising program, managing a portfolio of institutional funders and prospects to secure philanthropic support for Zach's artistic, education, and community impact initiatives.

Working collaboratively across departments, the Grants Officer manages the full grant lifecycle—from prospect research and relationship cultivation through proposal development, reporting, stewardship, and ongoing funder engagement. 

This position serves as Zach's primary institutional grant writer while helping build a sustainable pipeline of foundation and government support aligned with the organization's strategic priorities.

The ideal candidate is an exceptional writer, an organized project manager, a curious researcher, and a collaborative relationship builder who enjoys connecting compelling stories of impact with funders' philanthropic priorities.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:

Foundation & Government Fundraising

• Manage the complete lifecycle of foundation and government grants, including prospect research, letters of inquiry, proposals, budgets, reports, and stewardship.
• Write compelling grant proposals and reports that effectively communicate Zach's mission, programs, impact, and funding priorities.
• Collaborate with Finance and program staff to develop accurate project budgets and collect program outcomes and evaluation data.
• Ensure all proposal, reporting, and stewardship deadlines are met through proactive planning and project management.
• Monitor grant opportunities and funding trends to identify new sources of institutional support.

Portfolio & Relationship Management

• Manage a portfolio of current and prospective foundation and government funders.
• Develop cultivation and stewardship strategies that strengthen long-term institutional relationships.
• Coordinate meetings, site visits, and other engagement opportunities with funders.
• Prepare briefing materials and talking points for Zach leadership and board members participating in donor meetings.
• Ensure timely fulfillment of funder recognition, benefits, and stewardship commitments.
  
  

Prospect Research & Pipeline Development

• Conduct ongoing research to identify new foundation and government funding opportunities aligned with Zach's mission and strategic priorities.
• Maintain an active pipeline of qualified institutional prospects.
• Evaluate funding opportunities and provide recommendations to the Director of Development.
• Stay informed on trends in philanthropy, grantmaking priorities, and best practices in institutional fundraising.
  
  

Project Management & Collaboration

• Maintain a comprehensive grants calendar and institutional fundraising work plan.
• Maintain accurate constituent records, proposal tracking, and relationship activity within Tessitura.
• Partner closely with colleagues across artistic, education, production, marketing, finance, and leadership teams to gather information needed for proposals and reports.
• Contribute to department-wide fundraising initiatives and assist with donor events and stewardship activities as needed.
• Participate as an engaged member of the Development team, including occasional evening and weekend events.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT: 

This is a campus-based, on-site role with the ability to work remotely 1-2 days a week per company and department guidelines as approved by the supervisor. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions upon discussion with HR.

• The noise level in this work environment is typically low to moderate.
• May be expected to lift for move up to 25 pounds 
• Must have reliable transportation and the ability to occasionally work evenings, weekends, and holidays 

ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS:

Reports to: Director of Development

Supervises (if any): None

Supports: Department Team members, Mission and department activities and events

Peer collaboration/communicates with: Finance, Marketing, Education regularly and on occasion with other departments and team members across the organization

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Beginning salary starting at $52,000 - $60,000k annually commensurate with experience and qualifications. New hires are typically brought into the organization between the minimum and midpoint of the range posted depending upon qualifications, years of experience in a similar role, internal equity, and the budgeted amount for the role. 

All offers of employment are conditional pending the successful completion of background and reference checks.

We’re excited to review your application. To ensure a smooth and fair hiring process, please apply online only. We’re not able to accommodate phone calls or in-person visits about this position. 

Some of the great benefits available to Zach Employees:

• Affordable Healthcare Coverage for Full-Time Employees and their Dependents
• Employer Paid Life and AD&D insurance
• Employer Paid Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• 401K Matching Program
• Vacation, Sick, and Personal Time
• Paid Holidays
• Free Parking
• Tickets to Mainstage and Family Series shows and enrollment in Camps/Classes

Zach Theater is committed to ensuring an equitable and inclusive workforce and we strive for a team that reflects Austin’s diverse culture. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, sex or age. 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Four or more years of progressively responsible experience in grant writing, institutional fundraising, or nonprofit development required.
• Bachelor’s degree in arts administration, communications, business, marketing, theatre, or public relations preferred or an equivalent combination of education and experience to facilitate success.
• Demonstrated success securing foundation and/or government grant funding.
• Experience in the performing arts or cultural nonprofit sector is highly preferred.
• Experience interpreting program outcomes and impact data for funders.
• Experience developing grant budgets in partnership with finance staff.
• Familiarity with Foundation Directory, Guidestar, iWave, or similar prospect research tools

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: 

• Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills.
• Strong organizational and project management abilities with careful attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships across departments and with external stakeholders.
• Proficiency with Google Suite, Asana, Slack, and constituent relationship management databases (Tessitura experience preferred).
• Commitment to Zach's mission and a passion for arts and culture.