Technician, Soho Theatre Walthamstow

Combining technical and practical skills with teamwork and communication to open the new Soho Theatre Walthamstow.

Overview

This is a hugely exciting opportunity to be a key part of the team opening the new Soho Theatre Walthamstow. You will be integral in supporting activity of this beautiful Grade II listed building, including our 1000 seat theatre as well as our studios and front of house spaces.

With the guidance and assistance of the Technical & Production Manager and Deputy Technical Manager you will be fundamental in mobilising Soho Theatre Walthamstow for a successful opening and launch. Following this, your technical expertise will be crucial in the set-up and operation of our busy season 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 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 Tech 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 and Podcast output

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 range of people 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)

  • Experience in a professional producing or receiving theatre 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)

  • Automated Flying Systems, particularly Power Flying Hoists w/ GENESIS control system
  • An understanding of computer networking and associated equipment
  • Experience working on Events, Shows and Performances involving high profile acts
  • An understanding of Engagement Projects and Theatre opportunities for the wider community

Skills (essential)   

  • Excellent time management and proven experience of working to a tight schedule
  • Knowledge of sound consoles, particularly Allen & Heath, and QLab software
  • Knowledge of LX consoles and programming, specifically ETC.
  • Ability to interpret technical drawings and sound/video/lighting plans
  • Confidence in manual-handling/heavy 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 individual, 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
  • An understanding of creating inter-department working relationships, creating a friendly, accessible and engaged working atmosphere
  • First Aid Qualification

Submitting an application:
We prefer applications to be sent by email. Please send your completed forms to jobs@sohotheatre.com with STWT25 in the subject line, as well as a completing an equal opportunities form, which can be found by clicking here.

When completing your application form, please read the person specification in the job description carefully.

If you would like to submit your application in another format, or you have any queries about this role, please contact HR on 020 7478 0100 or email jobs@sohotheatre.com to discuss alternatives.