DEPARTMENT: Scenic Art
POSITION: Assistant Scenic Artist
REPORTS TO: Scenic Art Director
JOB TYPE: Full time Seasonal
SALARY: $17-20/ hour
BENEFITS: Health insurance, 401K, PTO and paid holidays
ORGANIZATION DESCRIPTION
Kansas City Repertory Theatre, led by Artistic Director Stuart Carden and Executive Director Jeremy Dewey, is a vibrant regional theater with a 60-year legacy of artistic excellence. As the professional theatre in residence at the University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC), KCRep is committed to producing transformative theatrical experiences for our community.
Our performance venues include Spencer Theatre, a 550-seat modified thrust stage located in the Olson Performing Arts Center on the UMKC campus, and Copaken Stage, a 319-seat LORT D theatre located in the H&R Block world headquarters in downtown Kansas City.
KCRep’s season currently features three mainstage productions—including our beloved annual presentation of A Christmas Carol—two off-campus productions, a free community tour, and ongoing new works development initiatives.
JOB OVERVIEW
Under the direction of the Scenic Art Director, the Assistant Scenic Artist is responsible for assisting in the painting of all scenic elements and maintaining all paint areas. The Scenic Artist will work both independently and collaboratively with the Scenic Art Director, overhire scenic artists, and scene shop staff.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
• Apply paint using a variety of scenic painting techniques, based on renderings and the Scenic Art Director’s guidance
• Assist in preparing touch-up kits
• Maintain consistent quality and attention to detail
• Keep the paint shop and work environment clean and safe
• Properly handle, use, and dispose of all paint materials
• Support paint shop operations in the absence of the Scenic Art Director
• Follow all Kansas City Repertory Theatre policies and procedures
• Actively support KCRep’s mission, vision, values, and commitment to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Anti-racism (IDEA)
QUALIFICATIONS
• Prior experience as a Scenic Artist or Assistant Charge at a professional theatre
• Proficiency in color theory, mixing, and matching
• Experience with drop layout, aging/distressing techniques, and faux finishes such as wood
graining and marbling
• Ability to work on tasks that may require prolonged physical engagement, such as standing, lifting, or working on ladders, scaffolds, or personnel lifts—with or without reasonable accommodation
• Willingness to use required personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators
• Effective time management and ability to adapt to shifting priorities
• Commitment to respectful communication, collaborative work, and a feedback-driven environment
• Self-motivated, proactive, and detail-oriented
MISSION
To inspire, entertain, and open minds by creating transformative theatre experiences for all.
VISION
KCRep will be a catalyst for a culturally vibrant, equitable, and thriving Kansas City by connecting artists and audiences in a welcoming environment that fosters wonder, curiosity, and understanding.
VALUES
Empathy: We empathize with those around us and prioritize an environment grounded in empathy and generosity of spirit.
Inclusion: Through our ongoing Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Anti-Racism work, we welcome and include everyone.
Openness: We open our minds to new ideas, hard conversations, challenges, and growth.
Collaboration: We build strong internal and external partnerships to share stories respectfully and joyfully.
Innovation: We embrace creativity on and off stage to serve our art and community.
IDEA STATEMENT
Following the social uprisings of summer 2020, KCRep reaffirmed its commitment to inclusion, diversity, equity, and anti-racism (IDEA). Board and staff committees collaborate to ensure this work remains central to daily operations, including addressing barriers to access, ensuring broad representation, and nurturing meaningful community partnerships. Learn more at kcrep.org/inclusion.
TO APPLY
Please submit your resume and cover letter explaining why you would be a great addition to KCRep to:
production@kcrep.org. No phone calls, please