The Production Coordinator contributes towards to the smooth and safe preparation and delivery of TSO performances. The role works within a small production team to understand and deliver the artistic brief, liaising with creatives, conductors, musicians, venue staff, and crew during the process. This role would suit an individual who has a broad range of technical abilities and experience, with prior experience or a particular interest in sound particularly desirable. The Production Coordinator must be prepared to apply their skills to a variety of production responsibilities and possess a positive and solutions-oriented mindset: the ideal candidate will be a proven team player who can operate calmly and efficiently in a dynamic artistic environment.
This is a part-time role, working 29.4 hours (4 days) per week. Some flexibility is required as the working schedule is based on artistic programming.
A full position description, selection criteria, and information on how to apply can be found on the ‘Employment’ page of our website: https://www.tso.com.au/tso-employment-opportunities/
Duties and Responsibilities
- Set up orchestral staging, setting properties and instruments for rehearsals, performances, recordings and other associated TSO activities as directed
- Assemble, arrange and supervise transportation of, and assist in loading and unloading, orchestral equipment as described above for activities away from the normal workplace.
- Create stage and lighting plans for orchestral productions, including theatrical events and/or projects using CAD software.
- Maintain and operate TSO technical equipment in the Federation Concert Hall and other TSO venues as required.
- Maintain equipment and the TSO equipment storeroom, including working collaboratively on the development and maintenance of a storeroom inventory in conjunction with the Production Manager.
- Set out and collect sheet music during rehearsals and concerts.
- Liaise with suppliers for hiring and purchasing production and technical equipment and supplies for orchestra activities. Procure quotes from suppliers in a timely manner for discussion with Production Manager.
- Liaise with venue production staff and assist in arranging the physical layout and other requirements associated with orchestral activities, including sound and lighting equipment and piano and harpsichord tuning.
- Attend to building and equipment security as required. Advise Production Manager of missing or damaged equipment. Carry out repairs and maintenance of orchestral equipment, including testing and tagging of electrical equipment and recording as appropriate.
- Carry out minor repairs, maintenance and cleaning of orchestral equipment. Where necessary, arrange for quotes from external repairers of instruments as directed by Director Operations.
- Act as Venue Manager as required for both internal and external events as directed by Director Operations.
- Provide advice to, and assist, colleagues with minor venue and office maintenance tasks to ensure they are undertaken safely, if workload allows and as per direction of the Director Operations.
- Enter and maintain information in the company wide database system, ArtsVision, to ensure it is up to date and accurate.
- Independently lead casual production staff when required.
- Tour as required.
- Be part of the TSO’s trained Warden team.
- Participate in further training and skills updating as and when required.
- Maintain a deep commitment to TSO values, uphold TSO organisational standards and comply with all TSO workplace policies and procedures.
- Other duties are required under direction of the Production Manager or Director Operations, including but not limited to:
- Booking casual crews
- Booking and managing transport requirements
- Booking and liaising with piano tuners or instrument repairs/ hires
- Preparing Tech Data Sheets, Production schedules, Production Agendas and Minutes.
Selection Criteria
- At least three years experience in production/staging aspects of live performances, preferably in a theatre or orchestral environment.
- Knowledge of technical aspects of performances and ability to operate equipment within one or more areas of expertise – a background in sound would be regarded as favourable.
- Broad understanding of typical orchestral stage layouts would be highly regarded, to ensure music and other stage requirements are correctly delivered. Ability to read and/or understand music notation would further assist in undertaking the duties of this role.
- Good maintenance skills and experience to carry out occasional minor equipment repairs.
- Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail with the ability to prioritise multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
- Demonstrated experience in working collaboratively and flexibly within a team and across a larger organization environment. This includes leading a small team of casual employees when required.
- Excellent demonstrated interpersonal skills, as it is essential for this role to communicate and liaise effectively with a variety of personalities in a creative and often high-pressure environment. These include artistic, venue and technical personnel both internal and external.
- Ability to problem solve under pressure whilst maintaining good composure.
- Ability to work independently as well as take direction; and manage own workload in the context of the workload of the wider department.
- Ability to manage conflicting needs and keep on top of immediate deliverables as well as looking ahead.
- Ability to develop and maintain strong relationships with external suppliers and production companies.
- Demonstrated knowledge of and training in safe manual handling and relevant workplace health and safety practices.
- Can pass the minimum requirements of a pre-employment fitness assessment and maintain a suitable degree of workplace fitness while employed to meet the requirements of a production / technical position.
- Demonstrated suitable competency in Microsoft Office, CAD, database software (TSO uses ArtsVision) and other software packages required for the position.
How to Apply
If you would like to apply for this role, please submit the following:
- A cover letter (no more than two pages long), outlining how you meet the selection criteria
- A current CV (no more than four pages long), that summarises your previous work history, skills, and attributes
Within your cover letter or CV, please ensure you include the names, job titles, and contact details for two referees. Documents should be submitted in PDF format.
Please email your application to recruitment@tso.com.au
The closing date for this role is Monday 25 October, 10am. The TSO reserves the right to not consider late applications.
