Principal Carpenter

Oregon Shakespeare Festival • Ashland, OR

12d • Onsite

About The Position

The Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF) is seeking a highly skilled and collaborative Principal Carpenter to support the construction, installation, and maintenance of scenic elements across our repertory season. This role is ideal for an experienced theatre professional who thrives in a fast-paced production environment and is passionate about craftsmanship, leadership, and creative problem-solving. This position is represented by IATSE Local 154. As Principal Carpenter, you’ll serve as a key leader in the scene shop—working both independently and collaboratively to bring scenic designs to life. You’ll help build and maintain scenic elements, uphold construction standards, support load-ins and technical rehearsals, and mentor fellow shop staff. This role blends hands-on fabrication with leadership and operational support in a dynamic repertory environment.

Requirements

• Have at least 4 years of professional experience in theatrical scenic construction (or equivalent combination of training and experience).
• Bring expert-level skills in woodworking, fabrication, and scenic construction.
• Have experience with metalworking and welding (MIG required; TIG a plus).
• Understand theatrical rigging and scenic build processes.
• Are a strong communicator and collaborative team member.
• Can problem-solve creatively and maintain high standards in a fast-paced environment.
• Are comfortable leading, training, and supporting a team while also taking direction as needed.
• Ability to lift and move materials up to 75 lbs.
• Ability to climb ladders, work at heights, and use lifts and safety equipment.
• Ability to stand, walk, kneel, crouch, and perform physical tasks for extended periods.
• Standard schedule is Monday–Friday, with occasional evenings and weekends for load-ins, load-outs, and technical rehearsals.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working in a repertory theatre environment.
• Familiarity with scenic R&D and prototyping.
• Experience reading CAD drawings and working with digital tools.

Responsibilities

• Scenic Construction & Fabrication: Build scenic elements including platforms, flats, doors, windows, stairs, and specialty components using wood and metal.
• Shop Leadership & Collaboration: Partner with management and shop staff to ensure high-quality scenic builds that meet repertory demands; support and enforce construction standards.
• Tool & Equipment Expertise: Operate and maintain a wide range of woodworking and fabrication tools with a high level of proficiency.
• Team Support & Training: Train staff on construction techniques, tools, and safety protocols; delegate tasks and provide leadership when management is unavailable.
• Load-Ins & Installations: Prepare for and execute load-ins, including hardware planning, tool coordination, rigging adjustments, and scenic installations.
• Maintenance & Repairs: Maintain and repair scenic elements throughout the production run; support strikes and restoration at the end of productions.
• Inventory & Organization: Assist with maintaining shop materials and ensure clean, safe, and efficient workspaces.
• Cross-Department Collaboration: Work with designers, technicians, and other departments to support multi-disciplinary production needs.
• Values in Action: Model OSF’s commitment to inclusion, equity, and anti-racist practices in all aspects of work.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees