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Theatre Development Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Board Member

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

Shakespeare Opera Theatre seeks volunteers to support and promote classical performing arts in Northern Virginia. SOT operates principally in McLean, Virginia. With an already well-developed artistic ...

Under general supervision of the Theatre Manager, The Part-Time Assistant Manager will manage theatre operations including, staff management and training and development at both locations. Qualified ...

Job Title: Business Development Manager Location: Burke, VA Overview Daisy is a smart home ... home theaters and multi-room audio setups. * Lighting Control Systems: Lighting solutions that ...

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Theatre Development information

See Virginia salary details

$28.8K

$55.3K

$91.2K

How much do theatre development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for theatre development in Virginia is $55,294.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,100.00 and $60,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Theatre Development vs Theatre Management?

AspectTheatre DevelopmentTheatre Management
Primary FocusFundraising, strategic growth, community outreachDaily operations, staff supervision, audience experience
Required SkillsGrant writing, relationship building, strategic planningLeadership, organizational skills, customer service
Work EnvironmentOffice settings, community events, fundraising campaignsTheatre venues, administrative offices
Common EmployersNonprofits, arts organizations, cultural institutionsTheatre companies, arts centers, entertainment venues

While Theatre Development focuses on growth, fundraising, and community engagement, Theatre Management handles daily operations and staff supervision. Both roles are essential for a successful theatre, but they emphasize different aspects of theatre organization and require distinct skill sets.

What are some common challenges faced in theatre development roles, and how can these be managed?

Professionals in Theatre Development often encounter challenges such as securing funding, building and maintaining relationships with donors, and effectively communicating the theatre's vision to diverse stakeholders. Managing these challenges typically involves strong networking abilities, creative fundraising strategies, and excellent interpersonal skills. Collaboration with marketing, artistic, and executive teams is essential to align development goals with the overall mission and programming of the theatre. Continuous professional development and staying updated on arts funding trends can also help overcome obstacles in this dynamic field.

What is theatre development?

Theatre development refers to the process of creating, promoting, and supporting new theatrical works, as well as building audiences and funding for theatre organizations. This field involves activities like script development, fundraising, audience outreach, and cultivating relationships with playwrights, directors, and donors. Professionals in theatre development often work for theatres, nonprofits, or production companies to ensure the success and sustainability of theatre projects. Their work is crucial for bringing new plays and performances to the stage and keeping the performing arts vibrant.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in theatre development?

To thrive in Theatre Development, you generally need experience in arts administration, fundraising, and project management, often supported by a degree in arts management, theatre, or a related field. Familiarity with donor management software, CRM systems, and grant-writing tools is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, creativity, and persuasive communication are essential soft skills for building relationships with donors and stakeholders. These competencies are crucial for securing funding, fostering partnerships, and ensuring the successful growth and sustainability of theatre organizations.
What are popular job titles related to Theatre Development jobs in Virginia? For Theatre Development jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Theatre Development jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Theatre Development jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Theatre Development job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,294 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Theater Technician I (Part-Time/Temporary, 3 Vacancies)

Arlington County, VA

Arlington, VA โ€ข On-site

$21.16 - $32.79/hr

Part-time

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description


NOTE: This is a re-opening to expand the pool of qualified candidates. If you have already applied for this position under former job number 1527, there is no need to re-apply unless you wish to update your application.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: Arlington County requires all applicants to thoroughly complete each section of the application, including prior job responsibilities, duties, and supplemental questions. While you may attach a resume, it will not replace a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
The Cultural Affairs Division within the Arlington Economic Development (AED) Department is seeking three part-time temporary Theater Technicians to provide sound, lighting, and visual arts for facility operations. The Technicians will perform a variety of duties to ensure the smooth operation of Arlington County weekly events, a range of visual music, dance, theater and performing arts programs.
Responsibilities
Specific Duties Include:
  • Performs technical support to theater and visual art equipment;
  • Provides basic maintenance/upkeep to the Joint use theaters in Arlington (Gunston Theater One, Two, Theater on The Run, Lubber Run Amphitheater, and Thomas Jefferson Middle School Theater);
  • Operates lighting, sound, and video equipment;
  • Arranges staging, lighting, sound, and video for events;
  • Performs light carpentry and scenic artistry;
  • Services, maintains, and operates a wide variety of equipment;
  • Sets up and breaks down events and performances; clears the stage and auditorium spaces (house/lobby) at the beginning/end of a work-shift or event;
  • Maintains a record of all maintenance and repair work; submits periodic reports to the Lead Theater Technician; and
  • Performing other job-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Minimums:
  • High School Diploma/GED; and
  • Some experience supporting technical theater or facility operation practices.

Desirables: Preference may be given to candidates with experience in one or more of the following:
  • Knowledge of theater carpentry and scenic artistry, lighting effects, or sound systems and associated theatrical equipment;
  • Sound reinforcement for concerts/events;
  • Troubleshooting various sound/lighting equipment malfunctions/scenarios;
  • Coordinating with artists/performers to advance shows; and
  • Performing minor repair and adjustment for sound/lighting equipment.

Substitution: Additional education may be substituted for experience requirement.
Special Requirements:
Please attach a Resume to this application.
A pre-employment criminal records check will be conducted. It may include checks of the following: criminal record, driving record, education, professional licensure, and credit history. You may be required to sign a release authorizing the County to obtain your background information.
The employee may perform activities inside and outside. Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
Additional Information:
Work Hours: This is a part-time position, with a maximum of 20 hours per week. The role requires flexibility to work nights and weekends to accommodate the performance schedule and the facility's hours of operation, which are from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM on weekdays and 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM on weekends. Additionally, there may be occasional late-night events on weekends.
The official job title is Theater Technician I. This is a temporary occasional position. Employees are eligible for sick leave.
Your responses to the supplemental questionnaire are considered part of the selection process and are required for this position. Please do not give "see resume" as a response to the questions. Incomplete applications will not be considered. In accordance with ยง 19.2-392.15, applicants are not required to provide information regarding sealed arrests, charges, or convictions in response to any questions or inquiries during the hiring process.
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