Technical manager/director

Technical manager (theatre)

The Technical Manager is responsible to the Production Manager and, as Head of the Stage Department manages a team comprising of the Technical Stage Manager, three Stage Technicians and casual stage crew. The Technical Stage Manager deputises for the Technical Manager and is primarily responsible for the technical requirements of the studio.

As Head of Department the responsibilities of the Technical Manager are:

• to ensure the smooth running of the Stage Department including matters relating to staff welfare, holidays, working conditions etc
• to ensure departmental attendance at design and production meetings * to assess the feasibility and cost implication of designs, and in conjunction with the Production Manager and other departments find technical solutions
• to attend Head of Department meetings and report information back to the departmental team
• to administer the Health & Safety policy as it relates to the department.
• oversee stage technical services for in-house and visiting productions when required
• to advise and oversee as required technical services for outside hires of premises
• ensure that all lifting equipment used by the company complies with current regulations and is safe for its intended purpose
• oversee practical elements of each production, i.e. flying, hydraulics, winches etc, in conjunction with the Production Manager
• in conjunction with the Head of Props and Settings assist fabrication of specific practical elements for a production
• oversee the provision of stage technicians for each production and recruit casual crew as necessary
• organise the smooth running of the get ins and outs, planning appropriate staffing levels for the department, and ensuring that this is carried out in a safe manner; this should include making sure that adequate protection is in place to avoid damage to the fabric of the building during this period i.e. protective flooring should be in place, plastic covering of seats if required etc
• ensure the maintenance of the set during the run of each production, in association with the props and settings department; this should include minor repairs as necessary
• produce where necessary simple rehearsal elements such as tables or treads as required by in coming productions; this should be in conjunction with the relevant stage manager for that production
• work alongside the props and settings department on the fit ups and ensure that all “off-stage” areas are ready for the technical rehearsal
• manage rehearsal flooring or set and any changeovers during the run as required
• be responsible for the safe working practices of stage department staff and the safe use of equipment ensuring that codes of practice and current regulations are adhered to
• maintain awareness of current developments and to recommend change when appropriate
• ensure that members of the stage department are familiar with the latest equipment, techniques and working practices
• ensure good working relationships and co-operation with all departments of the theatre
• ensure that control is exercised over departmental running costs and stock budgets
• ensure that adequate stocks of consumables are held
• ensure the safe storage of any substances used by the department.
• ensure the safe and tidy storage of all working areas within the company
• maintain the general housekeeping and tidiness of the hall; this should be done in association with the Production and Theatre Managers.
• ensure the tidiness and organisation of the store
• manage the maintenance of theatre spaces and any other production facilities engaged by the company
• any other work as can be reasonably required for the smooth day to day running of theatre and its performance spaces

The Technical Manager is also responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the Mobile Theatre, which is currently in storage. In conjunction with the Production Manager be involved in the preparation, staffing and running of any ventures for which the Mobile Theatre is used.
Part of the modernisation of our performance spaces has included the installation of automated flying equipment consisting of Stage Technologies ‘Nomad’ control systems running 125kg SWL moveable point hoists in both theatre spaces.
In addition to this we have a second system designed by J D Automation which enables three-dimensional flying to be achieved.
The management and maintenance of these systems is the responsibility of the Technical Manager as they form the bulk of the lifting equipment owned by the company. Accurate service records should be maintained at all times.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Essential qualities:

• experience of computer systems and stage automation
• eperience of all types of theatre flying including personnel flying; in particular knowledge of the NOMAD flying system or similar would be an advantage
• substantial experience of technical theatre in a producing environment
• the ability to manage and communicate with staff at all levels
• supervisory and leadership skills; this should be demonstrated by showing experience of having run a department previously
• a practical knowledge of LOLER, PUWER and other relevant Health and Safety regulations
• demonstrable experience in the production and management of budgets
• good understanding of statutory regulations governing theatre such as THSAW and the Working Time Directive
• the ability to work well under pressure
• commitment to finding innovative and reliable solutions to the challenges of design and delivery of the company’s work

Non essential but desirable qualities:

• electrical and mechanical engineering skills
• hydraulic and pneumatic engineering skills
• theatre set building skills (carpentry and metalwork)
• CAD skills
• skills in other areas useful within theatre such as fibre glassing, painting, technical drawing
• qualification in technical theatre from an accredited college or university
• other vocational qualification such as IRATA, PASMA, or CITB