Staff Carpenter - 2026

The Contemporary American Theater Festival at Shepherd University is welcoming applications for the position of Staff Carpenter. CATF, a LORT D summer festival and leading producer of contemporary plays, is dedicated to telling diverse stories and developing new American theater. The festival premieres or produces multiple plays per season in 3-4 venues. CATF is committed to supporting the unique needs of new work while fostering an environment of fun and company community. Located 90 minutes from DC, CATF makes its home in one of America’s coolest small towns, Shepherdstown, WV.

CATF's Carpentry team consists of a lead carpenter, 3-4 staff carpenters, and 2-3 carpentry interns. Staff carpenters work under the supervision of the lead carpenter and directly with festival and venue TDs to execute all of the festival’s productions and then will serve as deck lead in one of our venues during the run. 

Applicants must be able to lift and carry 75lbs, be comfortable with working on ladders, lifts, and/or catwalks up to 40’ high, enjoy working on teams, and be comfortable assisting with the supervision and training of interns. Flexibility, positivity, and the ability to take direction well and work independently are essential to success at CATF. Ideal applicants will have previous repertory and/or professional experience, as well as a working knowledge of fine carpentry techniques and/or MIG welding experience.

Position is seasonal, from May 21 - August 7. All staff and interns are provided free air-conditioned housing within walking distance of the theaters and workspaces (also air conditioned,) 1-2 meals per day during tech, and free use of university gym, pool, and laundry facilities.

CATF is committed to producing and sharing art in an inclusive, collaborative, anti-racist, and anti-oppressive environment. To learn more about CATF’s anti-racist and anti-oppressive values, visit www.catf.org/arao/

Interested applicants should submit a resume and three references (either with your resume, OR in the box below) along with a relevant portfolio (website, PDF, or Shared Drive folder). Interviews typically begin in late January and continue through the Spring; this posting will remain open until the position(s) have been filled. 

Please visit www.catf.org to learn more about us and our upcoming summer season.

CATF is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, nationality, ethnicity, Veteran, or ability status. CATF makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time. If you have any questions or need assistance completing the application, please email us at [email protected]