Work With Us
We invite you to join us in creating a welcoming, inclusive community space around the shared experience of unforgettable live performances.
McCarter is one of the country's flagship theatres, a vibrant center for community and for the performing arts, and a key cultural anchor for Central New Jersey. Located on the campus of Princeton University and incorporated as an independent, charitable nonprofit, the company is a nationally renowned, multi-disciplinary creative hub of arts and ideas, offering theatre, music, dance, spoken word, and educational programs for all ages.
A two-time Tony Award winner, McCarter’s legacy of artistic excellence traces back to the theatre’s first performances in 1930. A home for new play development and world premieres, the company has launched numerous works that have gone on to tens of thousands of performances reaching millions of audience members around the world.
Among the 100,000 community members who directly participate in the company’s work every year, more than 7,500 are students taking part in McCarter’s robust arts-in-education offerings. The company offers more than 20 annual in-school residencies in classrooms in Princeton and Trenton, hosts schools from throughout the region for student matinee performances, and offers need-based scholarships to every one of its dozens of educational after-school and summer programs each year. Co-led by Artistic Director Sarah Rasmussen and Executive Director Martin Miller, McCarter leads with values of “justice and joy, and beauty in belonging,” creating stories and experiences that enliven minds, expand imaginations, and engage communities.
Open Positions
Full Time
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POSITION: Stage Technician
DEPARTMENT: Production, Stage Operations
REPORTS TO: Stage Operations Director
CLASSIFICATION: Full-time; Seasonal; Non-Exempt (eligible for overtime)
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS: $28/hr; medical, vision, and dental insurance; paid time off (PTO), sick leave, and paid holidays; paid parental and bereavement leave; flexible spending and health savings accounts; employer-sponsored life and disability insurance (short- and long-term), as well as voluntary supplemental insurances including accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity, pet, and legal plans; a 403(b) retirement plan with employer contribution and match; free parking within walking distance; and additional benefits and perks.
LOCATION & SCHEDULE: This is an in-person position reporting to our theaters located at 91 University Place in Princeton, NJ. Schedule includes frequent nights, weekends and some holidays, as determined by the production calendar. Weekly schedule will vary, with 40 hours guaranteed, depending on production needs and availability.
START DATE: Preferred start date of August 10, 2026POSITION SUMMARY
McCarter Theatre Center is seeking skilled and collaborative Stage Technicians to support the full range of production activity across our venues. Working under the direction of the Stage Operations Director, Stage Technicians serve in a variety of capacities — including electrics, automation, props running, sound, and more — from load-in through performance and strike. This role works hands-on across our theaters, rehearsal spaces, and public areas, contributing to both the day-to-day demands of a busy producing and presenting organization and the ongoing care of McCarter's production infrastructure. Stage Technicians are a reliable, adaptable presence on a team committed to bringing exceptional work to the stage.ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & DUTIES
· Work changeovers, load-in, strike, and run crew for produced and presented shows and events as scheduled.
· Function as electrician, flyperson, automation technician, props runner, and/or sound technician as needed.
· Perform or assist with maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of theatrical equipment as assigned.
· Maintain organized, clean, and safe work areas, storage spaces, and equipment facilities.
· Contribute to additional sub-department tasks and Stage Operations projects as needed.
· Stay informed of health and safety issues regarding materials, equipment, and working environment; ensure compliance with all applicable codes, safety regulations, and industry best practices, including OSHA standards and theatre safety protocols.
· Prioritize safe working practices while embodying McCarter's safety and community expectations policies to maintain a secure environment for all staff, guest artists, and other collaborators.
· Engage in the ongoing work of fostering an equitable and inclusive environment at McCarter. Actively seek ways to improve work practices to ensure greater accessibility, representation, and belonging for all, while upholding and exhibiting our stated values of “justice and joy, beauty and belonging.”QUALIFICATIONS
· Working knowledge of theatrical industry software, including QLab and Spikemark.
· Ability to operate and perform basic repairs on standard lighting, video, sound, and electrics equipment.
· Basic carpentry skills for repair of scenic elements during the run of a show.
· Basic knowledge of safe rigging practices, including setup and operation of winched scenery.
· Ability to read and interpret technical ground plans, sections, and lighting, sound, and video plots.
· Strong organizational and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively across a team and with visiting artists.
· A collaborative, solutions-oriented approach to work, with the ability to build effective relationships across a team of people with diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and work styles.
· This position requires a valid U.S. driver's license and successful completion of a background screening, including a motor vehicle record check, prior to position start date; able to drive a 26’ box truck or smaller.WORK ENVIRONMENT
· Led by our core values, McCarter fosters and expects a culture of care and respect for the wellbeing of our staff. We seek individuals who share our commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace, where diverse perspectives are valued and respected.
· This position entails extended periods of standing and sitting, manual dexterity for operating office equipment, and the ability to read and interpret documents, while requiring repetitive lifting and carrying objects up to 70 pounds, engaging in repetitive tasks, walking, bending, and reaching within various work environments, including stairs; work may occur in full view of an audience (e.g. vista scene shifts). These tasks are part of the role; reasonable accommodations are available.
· This role involves working on ladders up to 35 feet high to access various equipment and rigging. Employee should be comfortable and experienced working at elevated heights and demonstrate adherence to safety protocols and procedures when working on elevated platforms. These tasks are part of the role; reasonable accommodations are available.
· Work is primarily completed in theater spaces and rehearsal rooms, as well as a shared office space at 91 University Place, Princeton, NJ, subject to normal building and HVAC conditions.
· Ability to work in various levels and colors of lighting and brightness/visibility, as well as exposure to dust and theatrical haze or fog.
· Potential for moderate to high noise environments depending on production and performance elements; ability to hear and speak clearly in areas with significant background noise.
· This position requires attendance on-site for all scheduled work calls, including various performances and events. These will be communicated and scheduled in advance.
· Employees in this role will use a personal mobile device for limited work-related functions, including secure system access through multi-factor authentication tools.This job posting describes the general nature and level of work expected in this role. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications, and may be modified as needed.
TO APPLY
Please visit our Career Center page to apply for this position. While resumes and cover letters are optional, we welcome any additional context you would like to share about your experience and interest in this role. We look forward to learning more about you and the perspective you would bring to the position.
Part Time
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POSITION: Company Management Assistant
DEPARTMENT: Production, Company Management
REPORTS TO: Company Manager
CLASSIFICATION: Part-time; Seasonal; Non-Exempt (eligible for overtime)
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS: $26/hr; paid sick and bereavement leave; staff holiday pay; access to participate in a 403(b) retirement plan; complimentary and discounted tickets; institutional professional development opportunities; free parking within walking distance, and additional perks.
LOCATION & SCHEDULE: This is an in-person position reporting to our administrative offices and theaters located at 91 University Place in Princeton, NJ. Schedule will include late nights and weekends. It may also include some holidays, as scheduled in advance. Weekly schedules can average around 15-35 hours dependent on production needs and availability.
START DATE: This position will begin on or around August 17. Work is anticipated to be available through at least November 1st, 2026, but possibly through early June 2027.POSITION SUMMARY
McCarter Theatre Center is seeking Company Management Assistants to join our Production team. Working closely with the Company Manager and Assistant Company Manager, Company Management Assistants play a vital role in supporting the visiting artists who bring our productions to life - helping ensure their time at McCarter is smooth, welcoming, and well-supported. This hands-on role spans artist travel and logistics, housing maintenance, event support, and a range of day-to-day responsibilities that keep our company operations running.ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & DUTIES
• Assist in coordinating and executing local ground transportation for Theatre Series company members, including airport pickups and drop-offs, as needed.
• Run errands for Theatre Series company and Presented Event artists, including grocery runs and supply procurement.
• Prepare, maintain, and stock McCarter-managed artist housing before and throughout each artist's stay.
• Assist in developing and distributing welcome and onboarding materials for visiting Theatre Series artists and stage managers.
• Provide attentive, responsive hospitality to artists in residence, anticipating needs and addressing requests in a timely manner.
• Support staff-wide wellness events, social gatherings, celebrations, and all-staff projects in collaboration with the Company Management team and other departments.
• Prioritize safe working practices while embodying McCarter's safety and community expectations policies to maintain a secure environment for all staff, guest artists, and other collaborators.
• Engage in the ongoing work of fostering an equitable and inclusive environment at McCarter. Actively seek ways to improve work practices to ensure greater accessibility, representation, and belonging for all, while upholding and exhibiting our stated values of “justice and joy, beauty and belonging.”QUALIFICATIONS
• Demonstrated proficiency using standard software and web-based applications, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Able to prioritize and manage multiple projects; maintain confidential information with discretion; exercise good judgement in heightened situations.
• Exceptional diplomacy, interpersonal, and teamwork skills; a proven track record of building and nurturing relationships with customers and colleagues alike
• Ability to thrive in fast-paced environments, and maintain composure while making swift decisions and solving problems, all with a sense of humor
• Dedication to providing superior customer service, with a warm and welcoming demeanor that fosters a positive experience for all artists and guests
• A collaborative, solutions-oriented approach to work, with the ability to build effective relationships across a team of people with diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and work styles.
• This position requires a valid background check with motor vehicle screening prior to start.PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
• Knowledge of Tessitura and/or ArtsVision systems.
• Experience working as a stage or events manager
• Working knowledge of the AEA, SDC, USA, and LORT
• An enthusiasm for the performing arts, with particular interest in supporting and elevating the work of global artists across many disciplines.WORK ENVIRONMENT
• Must have valid US driver’s license; comfortable driving a 15-passenger van in various weather conditions including heavy rain and snow.
• Led by our core values, McCarter fosters and expects a culture of care and respect for the wellbeing of our staff. We seek individuals who share our commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace, where diverse perspectives are valued and respected.
• In-person work will primarily be completed in a shared office space at 91 University Pl, Princeton, NJ with HVAC cooling/heating, as well as various rented apartment units for artist housing.
• This position entails extended periods of standing while moving and engaging in physical activity, manual dexterity for occasionally operating office equipment, and the ability to read and interpret documents, while sporadically requiring lifting and carrying objects up to 50 pounds (e.g. furniture, tables/chairs, etc.), engaging in repetitive tasks, sitting, walking, bending, and reaching within the office and housing environments, including navigating stairs. These tasks are part of the role; reasonable accommodations are available.
• Employees in this role will use a personal mobile device for limited work-related functions, including secure system access through multi-factor authentication tools, and artist communications via messaging applications (e.g., Signal or WhatsApp).This job posting describes the general nature and level of work expected in this role. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications, and may be modified as needed.
TO APPLY
Please visit our Career Center page to apply for this position. Though a resume is not required, we welcome any additional context you would like to share about your experience and interest in this role. We look forward to learning more about you and the perspective you would bring to the position. -
POSITION: Teaching Artists
DEPARTMENT: Education
REPORTS TO: Director of Education
CLASSIFICATION: Part-time; Project-based; Non-Exempt (eligible for overtime)
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS: $25 - $75/hr depending on type of work; paid sick and bereavement leave; staff holiday pay; access to participate in a 403(b) retirement plan; complimentary and discounted tickets; institutional professional development opportunities; free parking within walking distance, and additional perks.
LOCATION & SCHEDULE: This is an in-person position reporting to our administrative offices and theaters located at 91 University Place in Princeton, NJ, with requirements to be on-site at McCarter or in local schools and community centers during mutually agreed upon schedules that vary by program. Weekly schedule will vary, with some weekend hours dependent on assigned program.
START DATE: Contract opportunities are available throughout the season, from September 1 through June 30.POSITION SUMMARY
McCarter Theatre Center is seeking dynamic, collaborative Teaching Artists to lead classes and workshops for students of all ages at McCarter, and throughout Princeton and surrounding communities. These part-time roles are ideal for theatre practitioners with a passion for arts education, community engagement, and inclusive teaching practices. If you’re interested in cultivating a vibrant and educational experience for our students, we’d love to hear from you!At this time, we are specifically seeking the following:
Improv Instructor (Adult Programs)
An experienced improviser and educator to facilitate adult improv classes for students with a range of experience levels, from curious beginners to developing performers. Ideal candidates bring strong improv training, ensemble-building skills, and experience teaching adults in supportive, engaging classroom environments.Teaching Artists in this role should be comfortable leading active, process-driven classes that emphasize collaboration, creativity, confidence-building, and performance skills. Candidates should have experience facilitating improv exercises, scene work, games, and ensemble-based learning, while adapting instruction to meet the needs of participants with varying levels of experience. Experience teaching both introductory and intermediate-level improv is strongly preferred.
Musical Director / Teaching Artist (Youth & Teen Musical Theatre Programs)
Collaborative Musical Directors with a background in theatre performance and music education to support our youth musical theatre classes and teen conservatory programs. This role combines musical leadership with arts education, helping students develop foundational musical skills while fostering creativity, confidence, and ensemble collaboration.Ideal candidates have experience accompanying rehearsals, teaching music to children and adolescents, and supporting musical theatre instruction in classroom or rehearsal settings. Teaching Artists in this role should be comfortable leading vocal warm-ups, music rehearsals, theatre-based activities, and age-appropriate exercises that strengthen musical understanding and performance skills. Experience working with students across a range of developmental stages, particularly ages 5–17, is highly valued.
Early Childhood Music & Creative Play Instructor (Ages 0–4 with Caregivers)
Nurturing, energetic educators with experience facilitating early childhood music and creative play experiences for young children and their caregivers. Ideal candidates understand the developmental needs of infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children and are skilled at creating welcoming environments that support exploration, imagination, movement, and connection.Teaching Artists in this role will lead engaging caregiver-and-child workshops that incorporate music, storytelling, sensory experiences, movement, and imaginative play. Successful candidates are comfortable facilitating group participation, adapting activities to meet a range of developmental needs, and creating age-appropriate experiences that foster curiosity, creativity, early learning, and joyful family engagement.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & DUTIES
• Support the Director of Education and Education staff to deliver safe, successful programs across McCarter's Education department, including in-school residencies, after-school programs, camps, and related initiatives.
• Develop, submit, and execute engaging, age-appropriate lesson plans aligned with program themes and learning objectives.
• Provide direct instruction and facilitation to students, demonstrating strong classroom management and responsive teaching practice.
• Partner with and support the Assistant Teaching Artist(s) and Artist-in-Training staff assigned to each class or program.
• Foster a safe, welcoming, and inclusive learning environment for all students; adapt facilitation and lesson delivery in response to individual student needs, learning differences, and group dynamics.
• Track and document attendance, student participation, and any behavioral or safety incidents, and report to Education staff as required.
• Engage appropriately and warmly with students, parents, and caregivers throughout the program, including during drop-off, pickup, and incidental contact.
• Attend and actively contribute to training sessions, planning meetings, and other Education department gatherings as scheduled.
• Respond to communications from Education staff and colleagues in a timely manner via email, phone, and in person.
• Receive and incorporate constructive feedback from the Director of Education and Education staff regarding lesson planning and facilitation practice.
• Under the direction of the Education staff, understand, respectfully communicate and facilitate alignment with all program guidelines and policies as set forth by McCarter.
• Execute appropriate emergency procedures calmly and precisely if a safety situation arises, including communicating with Education staff and following McCarter protocols.
• Prioritize safe working practices while embodying McCarter's safety and community expectations policies to maintain a secure environment for all staff, students, and other collaborators.
• Engage in the ongoing work of fostering an equitable and inclusive environment at McCarter. Actively seek ways to improve work practices to ensure greater accessibility, representation, and belonging for all, while upholding and exhibiting our stated values of “justice and joy, beauty and belonging.”QUALIFICATIONS
• Possess a positive, energetic and inclusive attitude, while exhibiting behavior that makes all campers and staff feel safe and welcome.
• Previous teaching experience with K-12th grade students and adults.
• Skilled at crafting theater-focused lesson plans.
• Proven ability to set priorities and take initiative, functioning independently as needed
• A collaborative, solutions-oriented approach to work, with the ability to build effective relationships across a team of people with diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and work styles.
• This position requires a valid background check prior to start and may be subject to periodic re-screening. Teaching Artists working with youth are expected to comply with New Jersey mandated reporting requirements related to the welfare and safety of minors.PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
• CPR/AED/First-Aid Certification.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish, or other languages.
• Experience working with neurodiverse learners and students with varying access needs.WORK ENVIRONMENT
• Led by our core values, McCarter fosters and expects a culture of care and respect for the wellbeing of our staff. We seek individuals who share our commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace, where diverse perspectives are valued and respected.
• Work will be completed in a variety of spaces and rooms, subject to HVAC cooling and heating, both here at McCarter and at other locations in the greater community. There is possibility for some work to be done outside, as well.
• This position entails extended periods of standing while moving and engaging in physical activity (e.g. 4-5 hour intervals), manual dexterity for occasionally operating office equipment, and the ability to read and interpret documents, while sporadically requiring lifting and carrying objects up to 10 pounds (e.g. acting cubes and other minor scenic elements), engaging in repetitive tasks, sitting, walking, bending, and reaching within the office and classroom environment, including navigating stairs. These tasks are part of the role; reasonable accommodations are available.
• Position may be expected to use personal transportation in order to travel to offsite program locations.
• Employees in this role will use a personal mobile device for limited work-related functions, including secure system access through multi-factor authentication tools.This job posting describes the general nature and level of work expected in this role. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications, and may be modified as needed.
TO APPLY
Please visit our Career Center page to apply for this position. Please include a resume and cover letter with your application - we welcome any additional context you would like to share about your experience and interest in this role. We look forward to learning more about you and the perspective you would bring to the position.
McCarter is an equal opportunity employer committed to hiring, supporting, and promoting a diverse workforce and inclusive culture. We seek team members who bring a range of backgrounds and experiences in support of an expansive artistic vision; who are committed to ongoing anti-racism and anti-oppression work, both individually and collectively; and who value collaboration, curiosity, flexibility, and continuous personal and professional growth.
McCarter does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
We encourage candidates to apply even if they do not meet every qualification listed. Many skills are transferable, and we recognize that strong candidates may bring relevant experience, intuition, and perspective gained through a variety of paths. McCarter is committed to on-the-job training and mentorship.
We welcome you to explore our current job openings and apply through our Career Center. If you don’t see a position that matches your skills right now, we encourage you to join our "Work With Us" community to stay connected and be the first to hear about future opportunities.
McCarter Theatre Center is also committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations throughout the application and hiring process. Applicants who require accommodations may contact Human Resources at (609) 258-6500 or email jobs@mccarter.org.