Musco Stage Technician (Part-time), Temporary Assignment

Chapman University Careers•Irvine, CA

13d

About The Position

The tasks and duties associated with the Stage Technician position will vary based on the candidate’s experience, skills, knowledge, and abilities. Stage Technicians work with designers, faculty, staff, and students to assist in the safe operation and maintenance of theater sound, lighting, audio, stage setup, counterweight fly systems, rigging, and related equipment and systems used in support of stage productions. Stage Technicians at Musco Center work cross-departmentally, reporting functionally to the Stage & Rigging, Lighting and Audio/Video Department Heads depending on the focus of their assigned duties for the shift. Musco Center for the Arts’ commitment to cultural equity aims to create a brave space in authentic partnership with artistic, academic, and surrounding communities to re-imagine, dream, and work toward a just, anti-racist, and equitable arts hub that reflects the community’s values and advocates for the most vulnerable. Musco Center produces a variety of programming and has a diverse group of users – the successful candidate will navigate the season with impeccable, client-oriented service; a safety-first approach; and a desire to foster a collaborative, respectful work environment. IATSE Local 504 has been certified as the sole bargaining representative for this position. Employment will be subject to any collective bargaining agreement negotiated by the parties. These positions are seasonal, temporary assignments at which the duration can be extended or shortened at the discretion of the university. The work schedule will change from project to project requiring flexibility to facilitate weeknight and/or weekend productions.

Requirements

A minimum of related experience in general stagecraft techniques, audio systems, lighting systems, counterweight fly systems, stage management, projection or other theater-specific field.
Working knowledge of standard theatrical equipment and terminology.
Demonstrated knowledge of the methods and techniques in maintaining, installing, and repairing electrical and mechanical equipment used in stage productions, with the ability to apply the knowledge in work.
Ability to read and interpret ground plans and elevations, schematics, CAD drawings, diagrams, light plots, and stage plots.
Ability to prioritize tasks when faced with interruptions, distractions, and fluctuating workloads, and to carry out duties in a reliable and timely manner.
Ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing.
Interpersonal skills to interact with diverse groups of individuals at all organizational levels, both inside and outside of the university.
Ability to remain calm and respond confidently and promptly to stressful situations.
Capacity to solve problems with diplomacy and tact.
Ability to use creative thinking and sound judgment in dealing with a variety of personality types and situations.
Ability to follow and apply safety and work-related policies and procedures.
Knowledge of pertinent regulations and codes relating to theater productions.
Willingness to engage in Musco Center and Chapman University’s Cultural Equity initiatives.
Ability to work effectively in a team based environment.
Ability to work independently and follow-through on assignments with minimal direction/instruction.

Responsibilities

Provide support for production-related tasks
Lead and assist in the lighting hang and focus, audio/visual system setup, scenic element rigging, and load-in/load-out of productions.
Program sound equipment, lighting equipment, and other technical systems in advance of performances and productions.
Troubleshoot and resolve routine to somewhat complex problems with production equipment, in support of project goals.
Mix front of house or stage monitor multi-channel audio consoles or program complex lighting cues in computerized lighting consoles or safely direct and operate the weighting and unweighting of counterweight fly system.
Review and understand designs, floor plans, and elevations for each project.
Utilize ideas and experience with theatre processes and equipment to increase productivity.
Work with and collaborate with other technicians to implement theatrical needs for various events, including stage electrics, light boards, dimmers, sound systems, counterweight systems, rigging, drapery, flats, risers, and standard event set-up, through the use of appropriate theatre techniques.
Help provide guidance to student employees and crews.
Utilize proper safety practices and procedures.
Monitor the condition of equipment and perform basic to somewhat complex maintenance
Troubleshoot tool and equipment concerns, do basic repair as needed, accomplish routine system maintenance, and use shop tools in a safe working condition.
Evaluate equipment needs and notify supervisor of need to repair or replace equipment.
Clean and organize theatres, support facilities, storage areas, and equipment on a daily basis.
Insure that all facilities meet the standards set forth by the Musco Center of the Arts.