The role sits in the Technical Department to provide an overall focus on Theatre rigging and WH&S practices. You will have extensive knowledge and practical experience in these areas to ensure HOTA’s commitment to the delivery of industry standard and safe technical services as required across a multi-venue precinct.
You will have an in-depth understanding of the live performance environment, complemented by strong communication skills, attention to detail, poise when placed in a client service role, a collaborative approach and an ability to stay calm and positive under pressure.
The maintenance of the venues fly system and rigging infrastructure, supported by current documentation, will be a major component of the role. In addition, you will lead the development of skills and standards within the technical crew to meet presenter and the organisation expectations.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Oversight and implementation of best practice in relation to rigging and height safety related infrastructure e.g. chain motor hoists, counterweight fly system and fall arrest system
Management of the rigging and height safety infrastructure maintenance plan
Mentor and train rigging qualified crew in techniques specific to entertainment/performance rigging
Supervise and lead show crew in a productive and efficient manner to deliver outstanding department services
Contribute to the skills matrix to ensure the department maintains the skills required to deliver safe work practices and identify training opportunities for casual and fulltime staff
Competency interpreting and, in some instances, creating, documentation such as fly plots and other documents
Actively contribute to the success of the Technical Department and the wider organization by working collaboratively and providing Theatre WH&S & Height Safety support, guidance & advice to HOTA internal and external stakeholders in the delivery of the department and hirer outcomes.
Proactively impart your understanding of “performance” etiquette, including a comprehensive knowledge of theatre traditions, protocol and terminology to teams.
Exercise a degree of autonomy and decision-making responsibility in the coordination and/or implementation of operational housekeeping standards, policies, practices and guidelines delivered to professional industry standards.
Other duties as necessary to ensure effective and efficient operations in line with the needs of the organisation, within limits of the employee’s skills, competence and training.
Participate as an effective and willing team member.
Be comfortable working in a dynamic live theatre environment, balancing challenging variables, such as irregular and long shifts, physical work and live performance deadlines.
Develop educational tools focused on promoting safety within the Technical Department e.g. toolbox briefings
Upkeep of all rigging and height safety related documents and procedures e.g. annual point certifications, rescue & recovery procedures
Provide advice on best practice to the Production team when planning for any high-risk activities involving aerial performance and/or rigging of any nature
Provide approvals of proposed internal and external high-risk activity risk assessments to ensure rigging plots and proposed activities meet legislative and industry WH&S requirements.
Maintain and develop industry connections to strive for the highest standard in height safety procedures and infrastructure
Participate and/or monitor event related activities where required
SELECTION CRITERIA
Comprehensive skills in the provision of rigging services for shows in live performance environments
Comprehensive understanding of theatre safe work practices and Workplace Health & Safety
Demonstrated experience in the scheduled servicing of rigging & height safety infrastructure
Demonstrated excellent interpersonal skills when dealing with the team, presenters and hirers whilst ensuring the highest level of service and presentation
Ability to lead small teams to execute an effective and efficient outcome
Demonstrated ability in mentoring and training others
Physical fitness, agility and ability to work at heights, in confined spaces safely and carry out manual handling tasks.
QUALIFICATIONS
Staging systems training and/or Theatrical / Entertainment rigging experience (min 5 years)
Advanced riggers license
Working at Heights Certificate
Elevated Work Platform licence (-11m & +11m)
Yellow Card Scissor Lift (SL) and Vertical Lift (VL)
First aid certificate
Blue Card
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
This role requires the incumbent to perform physical tasks some of which are listed below. In addition to the task list there is also an inherent requirement to grip, climb, bend, squat, stand, lift, carry, push, pull, walk, twist, reach and use fine motor skills
POSITION ENQUIRIES
Enquiries in relation to this position should be directed to:
People and Culture Advisor
Close date for applications 4 October 2019
