Open Rank: Non-Tenure Track, Full-Time, Assistant, Associate or Professor of Theatre Practice in Musical Theatre

Posted 21 days ago

Job summary

• Job post source

  This job is directly from University of Southern California

• Job overview

  This open-rank faculty position in Musical Theatre at USC involves directing and teaching the BFA Musical Theatre program, impacting the training of media-agile dramatic artists.

• Responsibilities and impact

  The role includes overseeing the BFA Musical Theatre program, teaching courses, managing musical practicums, directing mainstage productions, recruiting students, and maintaining professional connections in the musical theatre industry.

• Compensation and benefits

  The annual base salary ranges from $90,000 to $140,000 depending on rank, with consideration of experience and qualifications; benefits include equal opportunity employment and reasonable accommodations for disabilities.

• Experience and skills

  Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in Theatre or related field (graduate degree preferred), 3-5 years teaching experience in performing arts, professional musical theatre credits (Broadway or national tours preferred), and skills in educational program administration and student professional development.

• Career development

  Opportunities include working within a prestigious university environment with access to a broad network of performing arts professionals and potential for academic rank advancement based on experience.

• Work environment and culture

  USC values diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a safe, secure, and supportive environment aligned with its Unifying Core Values and commitment to equal opportunity.

• Company information

  USC is a leading private research university founded in 1880 in Los Angeles, with the School of Dramatic Arts recognized internationally for theatre education and a robust production program.

• Team overview

  The candidate will join the School of Dramatic Arts, which has over 600 students and faculty working at the highest professional levels, housed in a vibrant performing arts corridor on campus.

• Job location and travel

  The position is based at USC's University Park Campus in Los Angeles, with a start date in January or August 2026.

• Application process

  Applicants must submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references; background checks are conducted post-offer, and accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities.

• Unique job features

  This role uniquely combines academic leadership with professional theatre practice, offering involvement in a conservatory-style program culminating in Broadway-scale productions at the Bing Theatre.

Company overview

The University of Southern California (USC) is a premier private research university located in Los Angeles, California. Established in 1880, USC offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines, including business, engineering, law, and the arts. The university generates revenue through tuition fees, research grants, and donations, and it is known for its strong emphasis on innovation, interdisciplinary research, and global engagement. USC's notable alumni network and partnerships with industry leaders provide significant opportunities for career advancement and professional development.

How to land this job

• Position your resume to highlight your experience in musical theatre education, emphasizing any leadership roles such as program direction or curriculum development, particularly in conservatory-style or BFA programs.

• Stress your professional credits in musical theatre, especially any Broadway or national tour experience, along with your teaching and directing background to align with the faculty role's requirements.

• Apply through multiple platforms including the University of Southern California's official careers page and LinkedIn to maximize your exposure for this academic role.

• Connect with current faculty members or administrators in the USC School of Dramatic Arts on LinkedIn; use ice breakers like commenting on recent productions at SDA or asking about the integration of stage and screen practices in their curriculum.

• Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords from the job description such as 'musical theatre education,' 'program administration,' 'professional development,' 'teaching experience,' and 'Broadway or national tours' to ensure it passes initial screenings.

• Use Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate your tailored applications, find the best application channels, and identify valuable LinkedIn contacts, allowing you to focus your energy on preparing for interviews and networking.