Job description

The School of Performing Arts at DeSales University, a Catholic, Salesian institution, invites applications for a full-time, one-year Visiting Assistant Professor of Theatrical Scenic Design, with the possibility of renewal and transition to a tenure-track Assistant Professor position. The position requires candidates with a terminal degree in design or an outstanding professional career (Assistant Professor of Professional Practice). Candidates should also possess a wide skill set and a recognized body of work as a theatre artist and demonstrate a successful record of teaching experience. This position is an annual nine-month appointment. Salary is commensurate with experience, plus a strong benefits package. Appointment to begin August 2026.

Responsibilities include a 4/4 teaching load, concentrated in the following areas:

• Overseeing the Scenic Designs and serving as the Scenic Artist for 3 productions per year (2 in the Fall semester and 1 in the Spring semester).
• Designing the Scenery for the Spring production as well as the following Fall productions (3 in total). The Design team works at least one semester ahead.
• Teaching courses in the Design/Technology track each semester (Courses may include: Scenic Design, Scenic Painting, Stagecraft, Technical Drawing, CAD Drafting for the Theatre, Elements of Design, Introduction to Theatre Technology, Projection Design, Design/ Tech Seminar).

Additional Job Requirements:

• Training and overseeing the scenic painting practicum student crews.
• Mentoring scenic design students in their design processes, this includes up to two additional student designed productions per year.

Other Desirable Skills (not required):

• Ability to teach additional courses in other design areas, stage management, arts administration, or art courses in the Fine Arts program.
• Ability to design projections, lights, sound, and/or costumes.
• Membership in United Scenic Artists Local 829.

The position also involves recruitment and service to the department.

DeSales University’s Theatre Department offers a BA degree in Theatre with 110 majors in five tracks (Acting for Stage and Screen, Arts Administration, Design and Technology, Musical Theatre, and Theatre Education) and 7 full time faculty members. The Design and Technology Track has three full time faculty members (Scenic Designer, Costume Designer, Lighting Designer) and five full time staff members (Production/General Manager, Technical Director, Costume Shop Manager, Sound Designer, Props Supervisor). There is also opportunity for collaboration with the Dance and TV/Film departments within the School of Performing Arts. During the summer months the Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival is in residence at The Labuda Center for the Performing Arts and is a possible venue for additional faculty development.

For more information about the Theatre Department, please go to: https://www.desales.edu/programs/undergrad/theatre

For more information about our course offerings, please go to: https://catalog.desales.edu/content.php?

For more information about our productions please go to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WDY7hC9Qfdw&list=PLidZqfw- wqH3gSxktlNiFFHfCRqOn8m75&index=3

How to apply

Applications need to be complete to be considered for review. To apply, please submit electronically (PDF preferred) the following material to Victoria Kopishke, Business Manager for the School of Performing Arts ([email protected]). In the subject line of the email, please only include your Last Name-Scenic Designer:

• Letter of Application (outlining interest and qualifications)
• Curriculum Vitae
• Contact Information for three Professional References
• Photocopies of all Transcripts (official transcripts will be required, if hired)
• Link to an online Portfolio.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

DeSales University is an EEO employer – M/F/Vets/Disabled; Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. This position is not eligible for immigration sponsorship.

DeSales University, in Center Valley, PA, is a private, coeducational, four-year liberal arts Salesian, Catholic university, under the leadership of the Oblates of Saint Francis de Sales. Founded in 1965, the 550-acre suburban campus is located 50 miles north of Philadelphia and about 90 miles southwest of New York City. A total enrollment of nearly 3,500 includes undergraduate day and evening students, and graduate students. DeSales has approximately 135 full-time faculty members and offers more than 40 bachelor’s degrees, twelve graduate programs, and over 20 certificate programs in a wide range of disciplines; many of these can be completed fully online.

In 2024, the University transitioned to a new academic structure featuring a four college/school model, which includes the Waterbury Reilly School of Business; a College of Arts, Education, and Humanities with a School of Education and a School of Performing Arts; a College of Sciences; and a College of Healthcare Professions with a designated School of Nursing. For further information, please visit our website, www.desales.edu.