Art Department Manager

Art Department Manager

Job Description

General Responsibilities:

The Art Department Manager is based in our Bridgeport, Ct location. Individuals for consideration will head the Art Department as the charge artist.  Working with Designers and clients to facilitate the needs or each project while collaborating with the Director of Operations and Project Management to meet the expectations of the company’s demanding schedule. Includes scheduling, supervising and directing the scenic work being performed on multiple projects simultaneously to achieve quality and budget goals. Willingness to be part of a team and grow the art department. Aptitude for learning and application of newly acquired skill sets.   This role will include the possibilities of nights and weekend work. The ideal candidate would have 2 years of scenic artist experience as a plus.

Reports to: Director of Operations

Detailed Responsibilities Include:

·        Hire Scenic Artists and shop persons required for each project, as needed.

·        Working with Project Managers and Designers to define the desired look, feel and direction of each project.

·        Have a working knowledge of all projects that are on the shop floor. This includes understanding of all active shop drawings and fabrication approach for each and their milestones and completion dates.

·        Create department schedules and timelines/milestones to achieve the requirements of each job.

·        Update teams at scheduled Operation meetings on job status as applicable

• Proactively manage the organization of the shop; materials stored there; and storage of equipment and scenic elements
• Writing departmental Purchase Orders and tracking departmental materials and tooling needs. Identify shortages and rectify them to maximize shop productivity
• Update daily the Job Labor Sheets; and submit weekly timecards to OM (Operations Manager) for review and submission to accounting

·        Ability to lead and train other artists to match techniques across all scenic elements for cohesiveness.

·        Develop new techniques and processes to aid in both efficiency and company growth.

·        Understanding of theatrical/theme paint brands, artists materials, traditional and non-traditional artist tools (and the ability to learn new tools and materials)

·        Provide written and verbal direction and documentation for art department and client needs 

·        Experience in casting, Carving, sewing, props is a bonus.

·        Self-motivated and focused

·        Color mixing and matching

·        Knowledge and use of HVLP spray guns (not required)

·        Sculpting and texture of various materials such as foam and sculptable epoxy

• On an as needed basis, and under the direction of the Director of Project Management, review or advise on bids for new project opportunities
• On-site paint calls or directions are a possibility.