Harbourfront Centre is a leading cultural institution in Toronto, celebrated for its vibrant arts, culture, community and recreational programs. As a not-for-profit organization, we are committed to enriching the lives of diverse communities through creativity, innovation, connection and excellence. A multi-faceted campus, Harbourfront Centre includes programming across arts, culture, recreation and learning, as well as commercial businesses that generate essential revenue to support operations.
We are currently looking to bring on board an experienced, organized and resourceful Technical Director to oversee the technical operations of Harbourfront Centre’s indoor and outdoor venues, as well as all production equipment and properties.
Position Title: Technical Director
Department: Event Operations
Reporting To: Head, Event Operations & Experience
Direct Reports: Technical Coordinator & Technicians
Number of Vacancies: 1
Type of Employment: Full-time, 35 hours per week
Compensation: Annual salary of $75,000 – $85,000, plus a comprehensive benefits package
Work Location: On site at our lakeside campus in Toronto
SUMMARY OF FUNCTION
The Technical Director is responsible for managing the technical operations of Harbourfront Centre’s events and performances and its venues (within the Artport Building, Stage in the Park, Concert Stage and other outdoor spaces). This role supports our Event Operations team in analyzing and evaluating the technical needs for various events and performances and accordingly planning, developing, scheduling and providing the support required. Oversight of all technical production equipment within the organization including all lighting, sound, video, staging and other properties is also a responsibility.
DUTIES
- Maintain and safeguard the technical assets of Harbourfront Centre, including supervision of the use of lighting, sound, communications equipment, and the use and maintenance of stage facilities. Monitor the condition of equipment including lighting, sound, and rigging equipment, performing preventative maintenance and arranging for repair and replacement when needed.
- Full-cycle staff management of Technicians & Technical Coordinator including recruitment, scheduling, task assignment, training and performance management.
- Support and collaborate with our Event Operations team in determining the technical needs as to lighting, sound, staging, and other special requirements necessary for the smooth and successful running of events and performances presented at our campus.
- Advise on technical riders and oversee technical packages prepared by Event Operations staff.
- Attend planning, programming, partner and client meetings as required, as well as participate in post events evaluations, making recommendations and implementing procedures changes as needed.
- Orient clients and visiting productions to safety, technical characteristics and other areas of facility operations; facilitate the use of the technical facilities by the resident company and others engaged by or renting the facility.
- Design and maintain lighting and sound systems for theatre, dance, music, and other productions and projects; assist guest designers and artists with technical matters.
- Attend technical rehearsals as required to supervise and assist in the technical aspects of the mounting the show. Supervise and assist with set and stage construction and management.
- Timely troubleshoot and resolve technical issues in real time, ensuring productions stay on track and disruptions are minimized.
- Liaise with Harbourfront Centre Site and Operations to identify site requirements for events and scheduling. Make recommendations regarding facilities, site development, maintenance and equipment inventory/purchases as they relate to production activities.
- Assist with the oversight of the Technical Services operating budget, monitor expenses, submit annual operating budget proposal, review budgets and follow up on any budget issues and challenges. Also reconcile cash advances and expense reports as required.
- Obtain competitive quotes from external vendors when required and evaluate quotes for accuracy.
- Partner with Manager, Event Operations, and senior management in the development, implementation and monitoring of operational procedures and guidelines for the Event Operations department.
- Perform other duties of a similar nature in line with the role function.
REQUIREMENTS
- Post-secondary education with 5 to 10 years demonstrated experience in technical/production in theatre, dance, music and events.
- 5+ years supervisory experience.
- Previous experience in a unionized environment and ability to interpret collective agreements.
- Working knowledge of techniques, methods and procedures of theatre, dance, and music productions and presentations including stage, set, sound and lighting design and implementation; stage management; computerized lighting systems; appropriate safety precautions and procedures.
- Working knowledge of various video presentation systems including projectors, LED screens, cameras, switchers, streaming equipment and protocols as well as video capture devices.
- Computer proficiency in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Experience and knowledge of AutoCad and/or Vectorworks is desirable.
- Safe overhead rigging materials and methods.
- Strong understanding of the Ontario Ministry of Labour Guidelines for the Performance Industry.
- Strong passion for the arts and client engagement.
- Previous experience with event management and CRM databases is considered an asset.
- Highly effective communication, presentation, interpersonal and relationship building skills and ability to maintain confidentiality.
- Collaborative aptitude, seeking and celebrating the contribution of others.
- Results oriented and proactive, with the ability to multitask, prioritize and work independently.
- Current Province of Ontario driver’s license or evidence of equivalent mobility.
- Current Working at Heights Certificate.
- This role is based in Toronto. As such, candidates must be legally eligible to work in Canada on a full-time, ongoing basis.
OUR VALUES
At Harbourfront Centre, our values - Open, Brave, Rigorous, and Kind - reflect our commitment to inclusivity, imaginative risk-taking, excellence, and respect, ensuring enriching experiences for all.
HOW TO APPLY
Harbourfront Centre is committed to diversity and inclusiveness. We encourage qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. Acceptable applications must include a current resume and a cover letter indicating how you meet the requirements of the position and why this role is of interest to you.
Qualified applicants are encouraged to apply by contacting jobs@harbourfrontcentre.com by no later than November 4, 2026. Please quote Technical Director in the subject line of your application. Applications will be reviewed and actioned on a rolling basis, as such early submissions are highly encouraged.
We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those being considered for an interview will be contacted. Suitable accommodations will be available upon request during the hiring process. Please know that our recruitment process does not involve the use of Artificial Intelligence tools; the review of received applications and hiring decisions are made by a team of people.
