Entertainment – Head of Automation and Control

Wynn Resorts•Las Vegas, NV

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Head of Automation & Control will be responsible for managing the Automation & Control Department, including performance reviews, hiring, and training. This role involves leading the team in ensuring the safe and consistent operation of all automation and control systems for performances. The position supports the production team by assisting with planning and strategy for load-in, and the creative/rehearsal process. Key responsibilities include developing strategies for system installation, safety, training, and operation, as well as operating automated stage and fluid hydraulic systems. The role requires a comprehensive understanding of all electronics components, overseeing and troubleshooting systems during performances and rehearsals, and installing, assembling, hanging, and repairing automation mechanisms. Documentation, monitoring, and updating of system specifications, inventory, and maintenance records are crucial. The Head of Automation & Control will monitor all show systems, provide supervision for a safe environment, and participate in the ongoing development and inspection of automation and fluid hydraulic systems. Support for performers, the Director of Technical Operations, and the Resident Artistic Director is expected, along with budget management, creating emergency procedures, and providing cost-effective solutions. The role involves documenting systems and cues, maintaining maintenance logs, coordinating with manufacturers, preparing schedules, processing payroll, and establishing training and backup plans. A continuous quality improvement process, coordination with other departments, and the creation of safety guides and procedures are also key aspects of this position. Adherence to OSHA regulations and company policies, fostering a positive atmosphere, and performing other assigned duties are required.

Requirements

Must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Minimum of seven (7) years’ experience as Head of Automation for a large-scale theatrical or production show.
Experience with a wide variety of modern theatrical automation and control systems as it pertains to installation, use and troubleshooting.
Experience with a wide variety of modern fluid power equipment such as hydraulic valves, and pumps as it pertains to installation, use and troubleshooting.
Experience with flying effects with artists and theatrical rigging.
Experience with electronics, conduit, battery packs, wire terminals, sensors, networks and control boards.
Experience and knowledge of automation, fluid systems & hardware.
Must be able to manage staff and perform under pressure as well as manage logistics.
Must have the ability to create, implement and work within fiscal budgets.
Must be highly organized and be able to function in a stressful environment.
Must be able to manage, prioritize and complete multiple tasks in a timely manner.
Must have the ability to produce high quality work in a limited time frame.
Must possess excellent problem-solving skills and strong interpersonal skills with proven talents in leadership, safety, and teamwork.
Must be a team builder and be able to create strong teams.
Must possess outstanding organizational skills, as well as excellent attention to detail.
Ability to learn or update lifesaving skills and to become CPR/First Responder trained.
Willing to define, practice and conform to safe working procedures.
Ability, experience, and comfort in working at high elevations in a theatrical environment.
Maintain relevant knowledge of industry through continuing education and training.
Must be able to break down barriers between backstage and onstage personnel.
Must possess excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Must have excellent phone etiquette.
Must have strong computer skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office 365
Must be able to work a flexible schedule (evenings, weekends, holidays and long hours).
Must have the ability to work with individuals from different cultures and backgrounds.
Knowledge of OSHA health and safety protocols is required.
Must have current OSHA 30 General Industry Safety Card.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience working with Navigator preferred.

Responsibilities

Manage the Automation & Control Department.
Complete performance reviews.
Hire and train new employees.
Lead the team in establishing and maintaining the safe and consistent operations of all automation and control systems for each performance.
Support the production team by assisting with the planning and strategy of the load-in and the creative / rehearsal process of the production.
Develop the strategy and planning for the automation and control systems installation, safety, training and operation.
Operate the automated stage systems, and fluid hydraulic systems by programming and operating the control consoles.
Oversee operations of and troubleshoot the automation and control systems during performances and rehearsals.
Install, assemble, hang, and repair automation mechanisms and automated show elements.
Document, monitor and update the automation and fluid hydraulic systems installation specifications, inventory of materials and equipment and all pertinent inspection and maintenance records.
Monitor all show automation and control systems and provide adequate oversight and supervision to maintain a safe environment.
Participate in the on-going development of an inspection of the automation and fluid hydraulic system installations.
Support the performers at all times by assisting and guiding their interaction with all show elements and technical staff.
Support the Director of Technical Operations in creating an atmosphere that maximizes productivity and minimizes costs.
Produce yearly department budgets.
Manage the department’s budgets and capital expense projections and oversee the supply, replacement and inventory of consumables.
Work with the Resident Artistic Director on required changes and ongoing development of the show.
Establish emergency procedures for show systems with Stage Management and the technical team; ensure all department staff is trained and familiar with these procedures.
Provide cost effective solutions to automation and control issues that maintain show quality and maximize return on investment.
Document all systems and show cues and any respective changes on a daily basis during the rehearsal process and through all performances.
Keep a log of all maintenance and regular inspections.
Communicate and coordinate with system manufacturers for system updates and repairs.
Prepare department schedules for all maintenance, rehearsal and show calls and process payroll for all staff.
Establish and maintain training and backup plans to assure continuity in performance operations of the department.
Create a CQI (continuous quality improvement) process for personnel, systems and equipment.
Coordinate with other departments as needed to run shows and rehearsals.
Prepare a safety guide for all automation systems and document all operations as part of a permanent record.
Develop and oversee all department maintenance, safety procedures and training.
Comply with any safety directives and ensure a safe working environment at all times.
Lead the crew in conforming to and improving all safety policies and standards.
Adhere to all OSHA regulations and maintain safety procedures for staff.
Work with the technical team to develop and maintain a safe working environment.
Assist and provide services to the other departments as needed.
Maintain and enforce all company policies and procedures.
Create a positive atmosphere for all show personnel.
Perform all other duties as assigned.