Backstage & Automation Trainer, Entertainment Technical

Carnival Corporation•Davie, FL

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Backstage & Automation Trainer designs, develops, and delivers specialized Entertainment Technical training programs based on a comprehensive backstage and automation curriculum. Working under limited supervision, the trainer collaborates with management to set training objectives, develop tiered curricula and instructional materials, and create practical exercises. Training covers safety, project planning, installation, operation, preventative maintenance, and repair of automation systems, theatrical sets, props, flying apparatuses, stage flooring, and related equipment, including TAIT and Mechatronics systems. The role delivers group, individual, and hands-on instruction; administers written and practical examinations; evaluates trainee performance; and maintains records and reports on progress. The trainer continually reviews program effectiveness and incorporates feedback, industry developments, and operational improvements into the curriculum. Other duties include maintaining training assets and inventory, coordinating with production teams on new show setups, providing technical support through ticketing systems, delivering training and support to shipboard staff, and assisting with Entertainment Technician recruitment alongside the Casting & Booking Department. The position also promotes safety and regulatory compliance, identifies and mitigates hazards, supports safety drills and show-stop procedures, and maintains documentation and secure backups of essential automation show files. The trainer collaborates across shoreside and shipboard teams and with Operations, Production, Music, and other departments. The role includes resource and vendor coordination, ordering supplies and equipment with the Manager and Sourcing team, and managing travel and expenses in accordance with company policies. This is an in-office position based at a designated Carnival office in South Florida, Monday through Thursday, with the option to work from home on Fridays. Candidates must be in or willing to relocate to the Miami/Fort Lauderdale area. Work may be indoors or outdoors, may involve changing climates or machinery, and may include shipboard travel, which is expected to be less than 25%.

Requirements

At least an associate degree; the stated discipline or major is Stage Management or Theatre.
Strong knowledge of rigging and automation systems used in the entertainment industry.
Knowledge or experience in rigging, stage management, stage carpentry, crew chief work, or automation operation in the entertainment industry.
Knowledge of basic electrical work and technical theatre.
Knowledge or experience in automation rigging construction and repair.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 applications.
Ability to lift more than 50 pounds.
Ability to work from a designated Carnival office in South Florida Monday through Thursday and be located in or willing to relocate to the Miami/Fort Lauderdale area.
Ability to travel, including likely shipboard travel.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree.
Navigator and Visual Stage experience.
Advanced skills in Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and online databases.
Expertise in live entertainment audio, theatre, or theatre with audio design and production.

Responsibilities

Design, develop, deliver, and continually improve specialized training programs and tiered curricula for Stage & Automation Technicians.
Create and review training materials, including handouts, tests, and practical exercises, in coordination with management.
Deliver group and individual instruction, hands-on workshops, demonstrations, and lectures on safety, show operations, project planning, installation, preventative maintenance, and repair.
Train staff on TAIT and Mechatronics systems, automation systems, theatrical sets, props, flying apparatuses, stage flooring, and related backstage equipment.
Administer written and practical examinations, evaluate trainee performance, provide feedback, identify skill gaps, and recommend further development.
Maintain accurate trainee records, exam results, performance reports, and progress documentation, and share reports with relevant stakeholders.
Collect and apply feedback from trainees, stakeholders, and production teams to improve training methods and outcomes.
Manage the inventory, storage, tracking, maintenance, and repair of training equipment and assets; coordinate purchases and replacement parts as needed.
Coordinate with production teams on new show setups and integrate operational improvements and new technologies into training and production practices.
Provide technical training and support to shipboard staff, including troubleshooting and resolving issues through ticketing systems and collaboration with shoreside teams.
Assist with recruiting Entertainment Technicians in collaboration with the Casting & Booking Department.
Develop and enforce safety practices, prepare teams for onboard safety duties, coordinate regular drills, and support safe execution of show stops.
Identify backstage and automation hazards during technical rehearsals, take action to mitigate risks, and ensure equipment is inspected before use.
Ensure compliance with company policies, Global HESS guidelines, applicable industry standards, and relevant safety regulations; conduct audits and take preventative measures.
Maintain secure digital backups of essential automation show files and comprehensive onboard documentation, including manuals, troubleshooting guides, and system diagrams.
Collaborate with Operations, Production, Music, and other departments to improve production processes, technical support, and show quality.
Promote Carnival's core behaviors, encourage collaboration and respectful communication, help resolve conflicts, and recognize outstanding team members through the monthly Studio Star initiative.
Work with the Manager and Sourcing team to order consumables and equipment, manage resources and inventory, control costs, and mitigate supply-chain risks.
Manage personal and direct-report travel arrangements and expenses in accordance with company policies, and submit expense reports promptly.
Contribute to team meetings, brainstorming, continuous improvement, and the development of a positive team environment.

Benefits

Annual cash bonus program for non-sales roles.
Medical, dental, and vision plans.
Employee Assistance Program and other mental health resources.
Company-paid term life insurance and disability coverage.
401(k) plan with company match.
Employee Stock Purchase plan.
Company-wide holidays and floating holidays for eligible employees.
Vacation time, with additional vacation accrual based on tenure.
Annual sick time for eligible employees.
Complimentary stand-by cruises, employee discounts on confirmed cruises, and special rates for family and friends.
Personal and professional learning and development resources, including tuition reimbursement.
On-site fitness center at the Miami campus.