Assistant Technical Director
Overview
This is a 3 month term position with the possibility of extension.
Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity aims to inspire everyone who attends our campus – artists, leaders, and thinkers – to unleash their creative potential. We acknowledge the traditional territories and Nations on which Banff Centre operates and commit to respect and celebrate this place.
The Opportunity: The Assistant Technical Director is responsible for assisting in the planning, management and supervision of all technical and production elements of Banff Centre productions, programs and presentations. The Performing Arts Production team includes department heads, facilitators, and specialised technicians in lighting, sound, carpentry and more. We are looking for someone passionate and experienced in stage carpentry, rigging, drafting and collaboration with builder shops to support this year\'s Summer Arts Festival.
Roles and Responsibilities
Reporting to the Production Manager, Performing Arts, some key responsibilities include:
- Assist the Production Manager, Performing Arts with the day-to-day management of the production department including personnel management, general organization and administration, scheduling, team leading/crew management, and expense management
- Supervise all elements of technical production for Banff Centre programs, performances and activities including planning, preparation, rehearsals, shows, strike, and restore, and organize technical staff. Meet regularly with the Technical Director to discuss progress and challenges
- Work closely with the Technical Director, Department Heads and other staff to ensure superior production standards for all artists
- Manage day-to-day scheduling/booking of technical and production teams, and production activities. Prepare and oversee the schedule for venue activities and supervise load in and out of productions and presentations
Technical
- Assist in operating, maintaining, and safeguarding the technical assets of the theatre, including supervision of lighting, sound, projection, communications equipment, and maintenance of shops and stage facilities
- Initiate and attend regular project/program production meetings. Monitor project progress so activity stays on budget and on time. Problem solve potential challenges with the team
- Analyze, cost, schedule, implement and manage production projects and technical riders. Maintain all technical documentation and CAD drawings for Performing Arts activities
- Advance productions and answer questions pertaining to technical capabilities or usage of equipment. Implement approved technical designs for touring shows or in-house productions
- Attend all tech and dress rehearsals, and take detailed notes during rehearsals
- Oversee and manage set and stage construction
- Create and update venue and show CAD drawings
- Analyze designs, cost production projects, maintain technical documentation and CAD drawings, and read blueprints, drawings and plots
Financial Responsibilities
- Assist in developing capital requirements and capital purchase plans for equipment and systems for the Performing Arts venues, and provide an annual technical inventory with recommendations for replacement or refurbishment
- Manage administration tasks including contracts, billing, collections and tracking, purchase orders, rentals, and expense processing
Health and Safety and General Maintenance
- Ensure safety of the workplace by establishing and enforcing health, security, and safety policies and maintaining a safe working environment in all production areas
- Monitor safety performance and implement continuous improvement measures
- Provide direction, training, and instruction in safe performance of work
- Conduct regular equipment reviews and ensure safe practices
- Monitor condition of equipment including ladders, lifts, vehicles, lighting, sound, rigging, and shop equipment. Maintain a detailed repair/replacement log for the Technical Director
- Support setup, maintenance and safe operation of stage, scenic, props, paint and wardrobe shops, Design Studio, and related facilities
- Maintain current knowledge of equipment and supervise training
Qualification and Educational Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree in Technical Theatre or related field or equivalent experience
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in technical performing arts roles
- Experience with live performances including music, dance, opera, and theatre
- Positive attitude under pressure
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Strong organizational skills with ability to manage multiple projects with tight deadlines
- Ability to lead and supervise a crew
- Ability to read and analyze a budget
- Ability to read and produce technical drawings and schematics in CAD (Vectorworks)
- Technical skills in scenic carpentry, stage carpentry, rigging, lighting, sound, projections
- Knowledge of structural and mechanical construction for the stage, including welding and rigging
- Knowledge of hydraulics, pneumatics, and electrical systems
- Knowledge and practical experience using Microsoft Office
- Strong troubleshooting, creative problem solving, and research abilities
- Self-motivated and able to work independently while taking direction as needed
Special Requirements
- Flexible, irregular schedule and weekend availability
- Valid class 5 driver\'s license may be required to drive Banff Centre vehicles
Employment Terms & Benefits
- This is a salaried, term position governed by Management/PSP employment terms with a 6 month probationary period
- Note: This is a 3 month term position
- Annual salary range: $59,495 to $88,346, based on experience
- Twenty paid vacation days and four personal days annually, pro-rated for this team
- Benefits include: transitional staff housing options (based on availability), professional development, staff cafeteria/restaurant discounts, Employee Assistance Plan, and onsite fitness facility at a discounted rate (first month free for new staff)
Application Process
- Applications accepted for the Assistant Technical Director position until a suitable candidate is found
- A criminal record check verifying a clear record is required prior to an extension of a final employment offer
- Visa Requirements: Candidates must be legally eligible to work in Canada. Banff Centre cannot assist with work authorization