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Instructor of Theatre Arts, Scenic and Lighting Design

Please see Special Instructions for more details.

Along with the application, the following items must be included:

  • Letter of application
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Copies of Transcripts
  • Access to digital portfolio representative of candidates work (please upload under "Other Document")

For best consideration, please submit a completed application along​ with all required materials​ by June 10, 2024.​ Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Job Details

Position Information

Posting Number 20240048FAC
Job Title Instructor of Theatre Arts, Scenic and Lighting Design
About Murray State
Murray State blends educational opportunities found at research institutions with collaborative interactions among students, faculty and staff found at smaller universities. Students receive personalized attention from supportive faculty and staff as the University offers a 16:1 student-to-faculty ratio. Murray State University places our highest priority on student learning and excellent teaching, blending the range of educational opportunities often experienced at research institutions with the nurturing student-teacher interactions usually found at smaller universities.

Located in the West Kentucky region, Murray State University is a public, comprehensive University which offers a low cost of living, low property taxes, and a four-season climate. Murray has a friendly, small-town atmosphere with locally-owned specialty shops and restaurants, an acclaimed community theater, art guild and award-winning public schools. The area is home to Kentucky Lake and Land Between the Lakes, a 170,000-acre National Recreation Area, which offers a wide-range of activities and amenities for residents and visitors alike. Located in close proximity to major cities and nearby access to Interstate 24, Murray is just a few hours from Nashville, St. Louis, Louisville and Memphis. Learn more about Careers at Murray State University.
About Murray State Benefits
Faculty and staff of Murray State University have access to a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement, tuition waivers, generous paid holidays, vacation, sick, and paid parental leave, as well as many other benefit offerings. Please refer to the Murray State Benefits page for more information.
Equal Opportunity Employment/Diversity Information
Murray State embraces diversity in the workplace and values attracting, developing and maintaining a diverse, high-quality faculty, staff, and student body. The University endeavors to create and promote a culturally diverse community to be accepting of and sensitive to diversity in its many varied forms. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. Murray State University is an equal education and employment opportunity, M/F/D, AA employer.
Type of Employment Regular Full-Time
If Part Time, Enter Hours Per Week
Work Location Murray, KY
Employment Term Academic Year
Position Type Faculty (Non-Tenure-Track)
Department Global Lang and Theatre Arts
Summary of Job Duties and Responsibilities
This is a full-time, nine moth Instructor position.

The instructor will design two-three theatre productions per semester and teach two classes per semester from which may include: scenic design, lighting design, other design-related courses, and a general education course. The faculty member will supervise, advise, and mentor students in the department, as well as, assist in preparation for job interviews, conference attendance, and other professional situations. The department utilizes two theatres (350-seat proscenium, 60-seat black box), one scene shop, one paint shop area, and various classroom facilities. Instructors are required to perform service within the department, and train student workers in Lovett Auditorium, a large auditorium used for various events, twice per semester in the areas of lighting and sound. Most events in the auditorium require microphones and general stage lighting.
Minimum Education Requirements
MA or MFA in Design, Scenic and/or Lighting, is required.
Minimum Experience and Skill Requirements
  • Previous experience teaching theatre students is required.
  • Computer-aided drafting (Vectorworks preferred) and rendering/ skills, sketching, rendering and drafting are required both as a member of the production team as well as required in the Instructor’s teaching assignments.
  • Strong scene painting skills, props and set dressing skills, oral and written communication skills, and the ability to work as a hands-on member of a tight production team are required.
  • Experience working and collaborating as a member of a production team is required.
  • Mentoring skills are required.
Preferred Education and/or Experience Qualifications
Proven experience and skills in both scenic and lighting are necessary though the candidates work as a scenic designer makes an emphasis in scenic design and solid experience with lighting design preferred. Strong scenic artist paint, and supervisory skills. Experience building or designing for the camera is a plus.
Physical Demands
Work Hours
Minimum Salary
Maximum Salary
Posting Details

Posting Date 05/02/2024
Closing Date
Open Until Filled Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants
Along with the application, the following items must be included:

  • Letter of application
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Copies of Transcripts
  • Access to digital portfolio representative of candidates work (please upload under “Other Document”)

For best consideration, please submit a completed application along​ with all required materials​ by June 10, 2024.​ Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

  1. * Do you have a MFA in Design?
    • Yes
    • No
  2. * How many years of experience do you have in this type of position?
    • 0-1
    • 1-3
    • 3-5
    • 5-7
    • 7+

Documents Needed to Apply

Required Documents
  1. Cover Letter
  2. Curriculum Vitae
  3. Copies of Transcripts
  4. Other Document
Optional Documents
  1. Other Document 2
  2. Other Document 3