Technical Theater Summer 2026 Intern (OPS)

The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art is located in Sarasota, Florida, and is a department of Florida State University. Learn more about The Ringling at https://www.ringling.org/careers.

Responsibilities

This internship is focused on the Technical Theater arts. The intern will study with dedicated professionals in a hands-on learning environment during The Ringling’s annual production of the Summer Circus Spectacular. The intern will assist the Production Manager of the Theater with ongoing operations, maintenance and performances.

INTERN RESPONSIBILITIES

The Ringling Technical Theater Intern will assist with the following tasks:

• Training with the Technical Staff of the Historic Asolo Theater on Sound, Lighting, Video, Set, Basic Rigging, Props and Stage Management.
• Real-time operations of live circus shows, including daily stage preparations, cleaning and reset for next shows and communications with Artists, Box Office and Front of House Staff.
• Besides event-based activities, interns will participate in theater maintenance, safety training and learn about requirements and membership in the associated technical and artist unions (IATSE, et al).

Qualifications

• Ability to start internship promptly on June 5, 2026, and stay through July 31, 2026.
• High School Diploma minimum with some theater training at high school or college level.
• Interest in performing arts with a familiarity with theater arts including:
  • Basic knowledge of stage spaces
  • Back of house logistics 
  • Technical theater roles
• Valid Driver's License or ability to obtain prior to hire. 

Preferred Qualifications

College theater training, including but not limited to:

• Stage management
• Lighting and sound operations
• Scenic and wardrobe prep and care 
• Box office/front of housework flow

Other Information

Through an experience as the Summer Circus Technical Theater Internship, candidates can expect the following learning outcomes:

• Acquiring knowledge and experience in the basics of lighting and sound operations for live theater.
• Gaining valuable hands-on experience within a professional theater environment, which will prepare them for collegiate theater programs and competitive professional work opportunities.
• Helping develop social, mental and physical discipline for problem solving, project planning, team building and communication, which are essentials in professional arts careers.
• Exposure to performance programs within a museum environment and expanded perspectives and access to large arts institutions systems and opportunities.

Helpful

Anticipated Timeline for Applicant Notifications

• Between mid-February and early March 2026 candidates will be notified if selected or not for an interview. 
• Offers will be made to the top candidate by end of March 2026. 
• Employment paperwork must be completed no later than May 15, 2026, and includes:
  • Completing a level 2 background check (must be completed within the United States)
  • Uploading images of your signed social security card, driver's license, and DMV verification of valid driver's license into the employee onboarding portal.
• Interns will begin on June 5th with New Hire Orientation at 9:00 AM.
• Internships will end on July 31, 2026. 

Contact Info

Questions? Internships@ringling.org

University Information

One of the nation's elite research universities, Florida State University preserves, expands, and disseminates knowledge in the sciences, technology, arts, humanities, and professions, while embracing a philosophy of learning strongly rooted in the traditions of the liberal arts and critical thinking. Founded in 1851, Florida State University is the oldest continuous site of higher education in Florida. FSU is a community steeped in tradition that fosters research and encourages creativity. At FSU, there’s the excitement of being part of a vibrant academic and professional community, surrounded by people whose ideas are shaping tomorrow’s news!

Learn more about our university and campuses.

Anticipated Salary Range

$15.45 per hour (40 hours a week)

How To Apply

If qualified and interested in a specific job opening as advertised, apply to Florida State University at https://jobs.fsu.edu. If you are a current FSU employee, apply via myFSU > Self Service.

Applicants are required to complete the online application with all applicable information. Applications must include all work history up to ten years, and education details even if attaching a resume.

All candidates must submit the following materials within the application to be considered for a summer internship:

• A position-relevant resume
• A position-relevant relevant cover letter
• Unofficial copies of all college transcripts
• Contact information for three (3) references including their name, relationship to you, and contact information (email address and/or phone number)
  • Please note references will be contacted in early to mid-March 2026, if selected for interview. 

Considerations

• This is an OPS/temporary job.
• Based on the duties, this position may require completion of a criminal history background check.
• Work Location: Sarasota, FL

Working Hours

Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM with a one hour meal period. Please note that there will be opportunities for evening and weekend hours based on the performance schedule. 

Equal Employment Opportunity

FSU is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.