Overview
This is a hugely exciting opportunity to be a key part of the team at the new Soho Theatre Walthamstow.
You will be integral in supporting activities in this beautiful Grade II listed building, including our 1000 seat theatre as well as our studios and front of house spaces.
With the guidance of the technical & production manager and deputy technical manager you will be fundamental in assisting with all technical aspects of our busy season. Your technical expertise will be crucial in the set-up and operation of exciting performances and community programmes, working closely alongside a team of casual technicians to run our performances.
You will be relied upon to deliver the creative visions of artists in a safe and effective manner and assist with the successful running of the theatre’s busy programme, including all productions, events and projects. You will ensure our health & safety standards are met, creating a consistent, risk-free and professional working environment building wide.
This 12month contracted role combines technical and practical skills with teamwork and communication, working and collaborating with technicians, artists and freelance creative teams.
Duties & Responsibilities
Technical
- To programme/operate lighting, sound, AV and undertake duty technician responsibilities as required for shows and events in the main venue, studios or foyer space
- Be responsible for regular inspection, testing and maintenance of technical equipment, reporting any issues to the technical and production manager
- Assist fellow technical crew with all aspects of get in/outs, fit-ups and turnarounds to schedule
- Safely undertake the rigging of LX, sound, AV and construction of scenic elements
- Assist with digital output and hires
Health & Safety
- Familiarise and adhere to show, area and equipment risk assessments whilst taking responsibility for housekeeping in backstage and public facing areas
- Act as a duty first aider and fire marshal when required (training provided)
- Be a welcoming point of contact for receiving visiting companies, providing a health and safety induction when necessary
- Supervise casual and freelance technical staff
- Read and implement the Walthamstow H&S policy
General
- Attend department/production and staff meetings to keep aware of the buildings schedule and news updates
- Support building and facilities tasks whenever possible
- Act as a key-holder for the building
- Support the aims and objectives of Soho Theatre company both internally and externally
- Act as an ambassador for Soho Theatre Walthamstow to all visitors to the building
- Any other duties the technical & production manager or deputy technical manager may reasonably require
Person Specification
Qualities
- Ability to work in a fast paced, energetic and demanding environment
- Strong interpersonal skills, with the nous to engage with a wide variety of people and personalities in a clear and effective manner
- Willingness and confidence to work unsupervised and with initiative
- Highly organized and self-motivated
- Attention to detail in your work, with an understanding of the larger goal
- Friendly, approachable and supportive, with an interest in meeting new people
- A genuine interest in the arts sector
Experience (essential)
- Proven experience in the set-up and operation of technical equipment related to live theatre and events
- Experience in a professional receiving or producing theatre or venue and/or a qualification in technical theatre
- Experience of working with artists, performers, creatives and/or design teams to adapt a new or existing show, performance or event to a venue
- Rigging, operation and maintenance of theatrical lighting, sound, communications, special effects and AV equipment
Experience (desirable)
- An understanding of manual or automated flying systems, particularly power flying hoists w/ Genesis control system
- An understanding of Dante, computer networking and associated equipment
- Experience working on events, shows and performances involving high profile acts
- An understanding of engagement projects and opportunities within theatre for the wider community
Skills (essential)
- Knowledge of sound or lighting consoles, particularly Allen & Heath and ETC, and QLab software
- Excellent time management and proven experience of working to a tight schedule
- Ability to interpret technical drawings and sound/video/lighting plans
- Confidence in manual-handling/lifting and working at height, with an understanding of the associated health and safety requirements and equipment
- A flexible and understanding approach to working with people from all backgrounds, disciplines and knowledge bases
- A calm, concise and methodical approach to problem solving
- Clear communication skills with the ability to lead on tasks when necessary
- An awareness and understanding of access requirements for artists, performers, patrons and staff
- Ability to work as part of a team or individually, taking initiative to complete tasks
Skills (desirable)
- An understanding of building and show related sustainability with a view on our impact on the environment
- Ability to PAT test and maintain standard theatre equipment
- Basic knowledge of stage management duties
- Basic set construction, carpentry skills and use of hand/power tools
- Experience with live sound mixing or lighting design
- An understanding of creating inter-department working relationships, creating a friendly, accessible and engaged working atmosphere
- First aid qualification
Terms And Conditions
Equal Opportunities
Running through the core of Soho Theatre are the values of equality of opportunity, diversity of background and inclusion and accessibility for all. Our artists, audience and staff reflect a diverse London, and we work hard to increase representation across cultures and experience.
Terms of Employment
This is a 12month contract with a 3month probation period, working from Soho Theatre Walthamstow.
Salary
£28,840 plus Overtime and Get-Out rates
Hours
The full-time working week is 40 hours, with an hour unpaid for lunch. Normal working week is 40 hours over a 5-day period, Monday to Sunday; all other terms and conditions as per BECTU / TMA agreement, including provisions for overtime working. It is expected that you will be prepared to work evenings and/or weekends.
Application Instructions
Please send your CV and Cover Letter to jobs@sohotheatre.com.
If you would like to submit your application in another format, or you have any queries about this role, please contact the HR team via email jobs@sohotheatre.com to discuss alternatives.
We will contact every candidate, whether they have been shortlisted for interview or not.