We are seeking talented site professionals to be part of the renowned Guys & Dolls production on Sydney Harbour. These roles are contract-based, running exclusively for the duration of this spectacular event, from February to May 2025. Be a part of the team behind one of Australia’s most iconic outdoor theatre experiences, delivering a world-class production in an unforgettable location. If you’re passionate about theatre and love the idea of working on a grand scale, we’d love to hear from you!
The Opportunity
- Collaborate directly with the Production Manager and department heads, including designers, for the renowned Guys & Dolls production on Sydney Harbour.
- Create and manage work schedules for mechanist staff throughout the contract duration.
- Develop rosters to balance staff workload, manage fatigue, and minimise overtime during peak periods.
- Lead the department while interpreting and implementing directions from the Stage Designer and Senior Site and Technical Production Manager.
- Coordinate and oversee staff from the contracting stage supply company.
- Set up and operate staging equipment, both independently and as part of a team, for a grand-scale outdoor theatre experience.
- Implement procedures and practices to ensure compliance with safety regulations in an iconic location.
- Contribute to delivering a world-class production, bringing your passion for theatre to life in a spectacular setting.
- Collaborate with a dedicated team to enhance the overall audience experience in one of Australia’s most celebrated outdoor performances.
About You
- Minimum of two years as a Head Mechanist or equivalent.
- Confident in leading teams of staging professionals.
- Skilled in managing small and large production teams and contractors, ensuring schedules and safety standards are met.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work effectively with creative, technical personnel, and performers.
- Capable of working under pressure with tact, diplomacy, and flexibility.
- Strong understanding of safe work practices.
- Practical knowledge of stage machinery and construction tools.
- Familiar with venue requirements and daily theatre or festival site maintenance.
- Able to perform manual handling tasks and work at heights.
What we offer
Being Australia’s National opera company, we are committed to fostering a safe and collaborative environment for all. Our values are Curious, Creative, Collaborative, Brave, and Inclusive, and we are dedicated to supporting your journey at OA.
- Hybrid and flexible work environment
- Strong diversity and inclusion priority
- Employee Assistance Program
- Discounted private health insurance
- Access to salary packaging through SmartSalary
- Discounted retail goods through our Swag Rewards platform and other affiliated businesses
- Complimentary tickets to select Opera Australia shows
About Opera Australia
Opera Australia is one of the world’s most celebrated opera companies with an ambition to bring an Australian stamp to sharing great stories through music and song, and with a commitment to develop and nurture new generations of Australian talent on and off the stage. Opera Australia currently presents up to 500 performances to more than 650,000 people annually including operas, musicals and concerts, predominantly in our two performance homes: the Sydney Opera House on Gadigal land and the Arts Centre Melbourne on Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung land.
Opera Australia also stages exceptional and critically acclaimed performances in other venues in Australia’s major cities and regional communities across the country – from Warrnambool to Wyong and Burnie to Bendigo. Led by CEO Fiona Allan, Opera Australia is one of the biggest performing arts employers in Australia’s $14.7 billion arts and entertainment sector. Our company includes opera singers, conductors, orchestral musicians, coaches and repetiteurs with teams also working in the areas of scenic construction and painting, lighting, design, direction, wardrobe, wig-making, management and administration.
Opera Australia is resident at the Sydney Opera House and our Orchestra performs in the Joan Sutherland Theatre with both Opera Australia and The Australian Ballet. Our Chorus is regarded as one of the world’s finest.
For more information about OA please visit opera.org.au
If this sounds like you then click ‘Apply‘ to send through your CV and cover letter.
Applications close on the 8 November 2024.
For any enquiries about this role, please contact our People team at People@opera.org.au
Opera Australia is committed to enabling and preserving a culture of inclusion and connectedness. Our team come from all walks of life. We acknowledge that all individual differences, life experiences, self-expression, and talent represent our culture and reputation of Opera Australia. In recruiting for our team, we welcome the unique contributions that you can bring in terms of education, opinions, culture, ethnicity, race, sex, gender identity and expression.