Position title: Head of Staging
Reports to: Production and Technical Manager
Permanent – Full time (could negotiate part time for right applicant)
Rate of Pay: Live Performance Award Level 8
Merrigong Theatre Company is a not for profit company which operates Wollongong’s premier performing arts venues, Illawarra Performing Arts Centre and the Wollongong Town Hall. The company also commissions, produces, presents and tours professional theatre.
This position is required to assist in the operation of all technical aspects pertaining to the use of the stage, with a particular focus on staging, fly tower operation and safety. To realise staging requirements for Merrigong productions and incoming hirer events.
The successful candidate for the role will need to show a high level of initiative, strong communication skills and relevant industry knowledge and experience. They will also contribute to a positive team and work culture.
Merrigong encourages applications from diverse backgrounds including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds and people with disabilities.
POSITION OBJECTIVES:
- To assist in the planning, rostering and realisation of the requirements of incoming shows with a particular focus on Staging.
- To assist in the operation of all technical aspects pertaining to the use of the stage and the associated theatrical effects, across all areas.
- To coordinate and attend to maintenance and adjustments to the theatre equipment to ensure the venues operate effectively as performing arts venues, are well presented to the public and comply with the relevant statutory requirements.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Objective 1
- To work with the Production and Technical Manager to ensure that the company’s technical department is running safely and professionally at the highest possible standard, and that all staff understand and adhere to company policies and procedures.
- To liaise with incoming production companies as required and provide a high level of customer service to users of the centre. To create documentation to effectively communicate plans and schedules to your colleagues and venue users.
- To ensure the efficient use of company time by casual employees in the Technical Department and to participate in meetings as required.
- To assist venue hirers to realise their technical needs within the limits of the venues capabilities.
- Be able to input and retrieve data from the event management system, reconcile timesheets and hirer reconciliations, finalise estimates for upcoming shows.
Objective 2
- To safely and efficiently set-up, maintain and operate basic stage lighting, audio and visual equipment and stage machinery.
- Participate in, and lead where necessary, the bump-in and bump-out of productions and events.
- To act as Duty Technician when required.
- To assist with in-house production requirements.
- To lead event crew on the floor to realise the requirements of productions.
- To keep accurate records, complete production reports and report on back of house operations on a show by show basis.
- Maintain the Company’s technical equipment with particular focus on Staging.
- To assist with the training and induction of volunteers and casual staff, as well as the induction of any visiting companies.
- Be able to competently support your colleagues in other areas by gaining a working knowledge of their equipment and processes.
Objective 3
- To assist in and coordinate, the maintenance of technical equipment and fixtures under the control of Merrigong Theatre Company in consultation with other members of the Technical Department, the Facilities Coordinator and the Production and Technical Manager.
- To contribute to asset management planning and capital infrastructure expenditure planning. Be responsible for the continuing improvement of all staging equipment resources.
General
- Other duties as required by the Production and Technical Manager within the scope of the position.
- Attendance at weekly Team Meetings.
SELECTION CRITERIA
Essential:
- Extensive knowledge and experience in the planning, design, implementation and operation of live staging including manual fly tower operation.
- A strong understanding of the needs and requirements of a range of stage presentations and events.
- Experience leading a close team in a demanding environment.
- Working understanding of WHS principles and regulations.
- Strong communication, time management and record-keeping skills.
- A valid driver’s license
Desirable:
- Formal training in technical theatre, theatre carpentry or associated trade certificate.
- CAD computer package skills.
- Riggers qualifications.
Attributes
- Have a commitment to a safe and efficient working environment.
- Ability to work to a high level of efficiency in stressful periods leading up to and during events.
- Positive and approachable attitude.
- Reliable
- Ability to work autonomously.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS
Available to work evenings, weekends and flexible shifts on a regular basis.
Ability to work at heights, in low light conditions, requiring good level of fitness.
This is a full time position however for the right applicant we would be willing to consider a part time arrangement.
APPLICATION PROCESS:
Applications close: 5 pm Monday 22 January 2018
For information about how to apply click here.
