Visiting Assistant Professor of Scene Design - Bucknell University : Job Details

The Department of Theatre and Dance at Bucknell University invites applications for a one-semester position as Visiting Assistant Professor of Scene Design for the Spring 2026 semester. This position is part of an undergraduate program recognized for its long-standing commitment to high production values.

Qualifications:

• Terminal degree (MFA) in Scenic Design or Theatre with a concentration in Scene Design.
• College-level teaching experience preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in scene design for live performance.
• Practical expertise in scene painting and properties management.

Teaching and Production Responsibilities: This position includes a standard three-course load, comprising two courses and one scenic design/production assignment.

Teaching assignments may include:

• THEA 246: Scene Design
• THEA 265: History of Architecture, Worldbuilding, or Digital Visualization (to be determined based on candidate expertise)

Design responsibilities include:

• Scene design for one mainstage theatre production (Spring musical: Head Over Heels)
• Scene design for one mainstage dance concert

Additional responsibilities:

• Supervise student technical assistants in properties and scene painting across all productions
• Manage and curate scenic and properties elements for student-directed studio productions
• Collaborate closely with the production and design teams
• Attend production meetings, technical rehearsals, and dress rehearsals as needed

Production Facilities:

• Harvey M. Powers Theatre (475-seat proscenium stage)
• Tustin Studio Theatre (50' x 50' flexible space)
• Weis Center for the Performing Arts (1,100-seat concert venue)

Candidate Evaluation Will Consider:

• A demonstrated commitment to fostering an inclusive and educational environment of belonging
• The ability to work collaboratively with faculty, staff, and students
• A professional and collegial approach to theatre training and production

Application Process: Applications must be submitted online at

• Cover letter detailing relevant experience, teaching and design interests
• Curriculum vitae
• Statement of Teaching Philosophy
• Digital portfolio (e.g., link to website, PDF, or slideshow)

Applicants should be prepared to submit names and contact information for three references during the interview process, so that confidential letters of reference may be obtained. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

Application review will begin July 15, 2025, and will continue until the position is filled.

Expected Start date: January 5, 2026

About Bucknell

Founded in 1846 and located along the banks of the Susquehanna River in historic Lewisburg, Pa., Bucknell University is an undergraduate-focused institution that stands uniquely at the intersection of top-ranked liberal arts, engineering and management programs. Our students choose from more than 60 majors and 70 minors in the arts, engineering, humanities, management, and natural and social sciences, as well as extensive global study, service-learning and research opportunities.

Bucknell's beautiful 450-acre campus includes first-rate facilities and is home to more than 90 percent of its undergraduate students. Student life is vibrant with about 200 student-run organizations, 27 NCAA Division I athletics teams, a robust arts culture, and a commitment among many of the students to community and global service work.

Bucknell is committed to fostering an environment that embraces diversity, equity and inclusion, and we seek candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports the growth and development of a diverse campus community. The University provides equal opportunity without regard to race, color, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, religion, national or ethnic origin, marital status, veteran status or disability in admissions, employment and in all of its educational programs and activities. We encourage individuals from historically underrepresented groups to apply.

Eligible full- and part-time employees are compensated beyond base salary through our total rewards package that includes:

• Flexible scheduling options determined by role;
• Medical, prescription drug, vision, dental, life, and long-term disability insurance options
• An outstanding 10% employer contribution to your retirement plan (no contribution requirement for non-exempt positions)
• Full-time and part-time members of the faculty and staff are eligible for tuition remission for themselves. Additionally, full-time members of the faculty and staff are eligible for tuition remission for their spouse/spousal equivalent and are eligible for various tuition programs for their children. Credit for full-time benefits eligible employment at other institutions of higher education will be applied to waiting periods.
• A comprehensive employee wellness program including program incentives
• A myriad of other benefits, including parental leave, an employee assistance program, fitness center membership, and the power of your Bucknell ID card

To learn more about Bucknell's benefits, click here!

Bucknell is committed to fostering an environment that embraces diversity, equity and inclusion, and seeks candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports the growth and development of a diverse campus community.

Bucknell University participates with the United States Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS) E-Verify program. We will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.