Head Carpenter

Description

SUMMARY
The Production and Studio Associate - Head Carpenter will provide general production support for all CalArts School of Theater and Center for New Performance productions as assigned. This is a 11-month position that follows the California Institute of the Arts’ calendar.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Fabricate and load-in scenic elements for school of theater productions
• Work alongside student technical directors and student workers advising on construction techniques and materials.
• Assist in managing the scene shop including maintaining stock, fixing and acquiring tools and equipment, as well as maintaining an inventory of all items, stock and tools in the scenery department. 
• Assist in the load-in and strike of all school of theater productions including scheduling student labor.
• Collaborate with student designers and technicians to realize scenic elements of production as assigned or directed
• Maintain familiarity with industry standards in scenic construction and related technologies.
• Arrange rentals and purchases for each show, as necessary
• Assist in maintenance of School of Theater spaces and assets as assigned or directed
• Work with other production staff to ensure all student and over-hire staff working on School of Theater productions use all tools and materials safely, and have and wear appropriate PPE in accordance with theater school shop policy.
• Provide training in proper tool use and safety procedures.
• Provide support to other production staff as needed including participation in light, video and audio hangs, rigging and load ins.

SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Required technical skills include: carpentry and welding methods (MIG, TIG, plasma). Basic machining skills are helpful.
• Working knowledge of sculpting, casting are helpful.
• Management skills required include managing student shop activity, student crew with regard to professional practice, instruction in techniques and methodology, scheduling and budgeting of projects
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to work with all types of people and in a high-energy environment.
• Prior experience OR current interest in developing, implementing and promoting sustainable practices in the scene shop, including recycling, repurposing, circular planning, and minimizing waste; integrating new sustainable technologies and practices from the industry into shop operations, and on-boarding staff and students with new environmental practices.
• A developed knowledge of PC or MAC computer software including Excel and Word, Photoshop, CAD (Autocad, VectorWorks, Sketchup Fusion 360) and  Adobe Illustrator is a must.
• Experience running and programming for CNC, Laser cutter and 3d printer.
• High degree of mechanical aptitude.
• Working knowledge of basic electronics (low voltage and high voltage)
• Experience and training in forklift operation
• Experience and training in aerial lifts operation.
• Experience in rope access is preferred but not required.

Qualifications

EDUCATION:

• BFA in technical theater or theater production (lighting, sound, technical direction, production management or stage management).
• Proven work experience equivalent to degree.

EXPERIENCE:

• 3-5 years experience working in an academic or commercial scene shop.

FURTHER INFORMATION:

The terms and working conditions of this position are subject to the collective bargaining agreement between CalArts and CWA, Local 9003. In the event of a conflict between this posting and the collective bargaining agreement, the collective bargaining agreement shall prevail.

Salary : $37