Theatrical Design Consultant

Position Title: Theatrical Design Consultant (Entry Level)

Company Overview:

At Salas O'Brien, we're dedicated to engineering for impact. Our mission to make a difference is at the core of everything we do, from our projects to our team culture. We strive to embody values of inspiration, achievement, and connection, fostering collective ownership and a sustainable future.

Established in 1975, Salas O'Brien is an employee-owned engineering and professional services firm focused on creating impact for our clients, team members, and the world. We know that today’s challenges bring tomorrow’s opportunities, and we’re here to design innovative, lasting solutions.

We specialize in creating environments where people connect, perform, and thrive. Our team consults on projects ranging from performing arts centers and universities to corporate campuses, cultural venues, and entertainment destinations. By integrating technology, acoustics, lighting and theatre systems, we help clients deliver experiences that inspire and engage.

Responsibilities:

As an entry level Theatrical Design Consultant, you will support our design and consulting team on a variety of performing arts, entertainment, faith-based, and community venue projects. This position involves assisting with the development of preliminary designs, design drawings, and technical documentation for theater planning, lighting, audio, and stage systems. Responsibilities include collaborating with senior consultants, preparing presentation materials, conducting research on equipment and architectural integration, and supporting coordination with architects and engineers. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, organized, and eager to learn the consulting process within a professional design environment.

• Design theatrical lighting and/or rigging systems in accordance with project scope and client requirements. Develop light plots, system layouts, reports, and detailed drawings.
• Integrate theatrical and architectural lighting control systems, including emergency lighting.
• Support planning studies for seating, sightlines, backstage circulation, and other technical space layouts.
• Coordinate system requirements with electrical and structural engineers.
• Prepare and edit project specifications.
• Conduct site surveys and document existing theatrical lighting and rigging systems.
• Provide construction administration support, including review of submittals and RFIs.

Qualifications:

Required

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Theatre, Architecture, or a related field, or a minimum of 3-5 years of experience in performing arts or entertainment venues.
• Knowledge of theatrical lighting and/or rigging system design.
• Strong work ethic and collaborative mindset.
• Clear communication skills with strong organization and time-management abilities.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and within a team environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office.

Preferred

• Experience in AutoCAD, Revit, or other drafting platforms.
• Visualization software (Twinmotion, Enscape, Vectorworks)
• Experience with lighting control platforms (Eos, Mosaic, Vista, Hog, grandMA),
• Experience with rigging controls platforms (ETC, Clancy, Creative Conners).
• Familiarity with applicable codes, standards, and design guidelines.
• ETCP or similar certification (or interest in pursuing certification) a plus.

Employment Details:

• Duration: Full Time
• Hours: 40 hours per week
• Location: Boulder CO, Dallas TX, or San Diego CA
• Work Model: In-office with Hybrid 3:2 option after initial onboarding period.
• Travel: Limited, <10%
• Compensation: $75,000 - $85,000 DOE

Third-Party Agency Notice

Salas O’Brien does not accept unsolicited resumes from external recruiters or agencies. We only work with approved partners engaged directly by our Talent Acquisition team for specific searches. Unsolicited submissions will not be eligible for placement fees.

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement:

Salas O'Brien provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Salas O'Brien will accommodate disability-related needs of applicants as required by law.