JOIN THE TEAM!

Hupstate is looking to hire the below positions for our 2026 festival. 

To apply, please email info@hupstatecircus.org, telling us about yourself, your background, and what makes you a good candidate. Please use subject line  “[Your Name] – [Job Position] 2026”. Applications are due by May 10, 2026.

Social Media & Online Content Manager (remote contractor)

We are looking for a part-time social media manager to expand Hupstate’s marketing reach. 

Responsibilities:

  • Develop and execute social media plan

  • Create and post content on Instagram promoting Hupstate and the 2026 festival

  • Run email campaigns leading up to the 2026 festival

Requirements:

  • Experience with social media

  • Ideally well connected in the Ithaca/upstate-NY communities and/or circus communities 

  • The best candidate will be someone who is excited about the festival and can transfer that excitement to the work!

Expectations:

  • 2-5 hours a week from May-October 2026

  • $30/hour

Technical Director (hybrid contractor)

Seeking a festival Technical Director to manage technical needs for all indoor and outdoor shows in the festival program, including lights, sound, equipment, coordination with the head rigger, and pre-festival communication with artists. 

Responsibilities:

  • May-June (remote): communicate with all artists about technical needs and prepare a tech plan for each show. Communicate with rented venues regarding said needs to ensure compatibility. Hire technicians for all venues/show needs in collaboration with the festival producers.

  • July-August (remote): finalize tech plans and cue sheets for each venue. 

  • September 3-7 (on site in Ithaca, NY): manage all technical staff and facilitate successful event

  • Must maintain their own professional liability insurance

Requirements:

  • Background in technical work for theater/circus productions 

  • Strong communication skills, able to liaise with artists in the months before the festival 

  • Experience/familiarity with live sound

  • Experience/familiarity with hanging, focusing, programming, and running lights

  • Experienced with QLab

  • Experience translating artists technical riders to rented venues and problem solving to find the best solutions 

Expectations:

  • 2-5 hours a week from May-August 2026, festival week work as needed (approx 60 hours) September 3 - September 7 2026

  • $3000 flat rate stipend