Automation Supervisor

Model

Lewes

On-site

GBP 50,000 - 68,000

Full time

9 days ago

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Job summary

Glyndebourne is recruiting an Automation Supervisor to lead planning, operation and maintenance of our automation systems to support productions. Responsibilities include programming, troubleshooting, and coordinating both flown and non-flown automation elements, integrating effects into new and revived shows.

The role requires substantial flying experience, rigging knowledge, and strong supervisory skills, with a focus on safe, efficient automation operations across productions.

Qualifications

Programming and running automation on theatrical shows.
Substantial flying experience.
Experience with rigging equipment.
Extensive knowledge of automation systems and SOPs in theatres.
Electrical/Electronic knowledge.
Mechanical/stage engineering knowledge.
Strong supervisory and team leadership skills.

Responsibilities

Lead planning, operation and maintenance of stage automation.
Troubleshoot automation systems and programs.
Oversee flying and non-flying automation elements for productions.
Coordinate safety systems and ensure best practice on rigging and harnesses.
Liaise with Production Managers and technical staff to realise creative concepts.
Train and guide the automation desk and record faults and show plots.
Act as duty automation supervisor during shows and changeovers.
Maintain, inspect and troubleshoot automation equipment.

Skills

Automation programming

Team leadership

RF safety

Rigging experience

Electrical knowledge

Mechanical engineering

Communication

Health & Safety

Risk Assessments

TAIT Navigator

Tools

Navigator TAIT system

Job description

Following a major Capital investment, Glyndebourne is now a flagship venue for TAIT automation systems in the UK. Featuring up to 70 motorised fly bars, multiple point hoists, stage lifts and automated tracking, we are now able to respond to the technical and creative ambitions of productions in a flexible and exciting way.

We are currently recruiting for an Automation Supervisor to join us to lead on the planning, operation and maintenance of the Glyndebourne automation systems to support the productions of the Company. You will be responsible for programming and troubleshooting of the computer and electronics-based systems, the planning and oversight of all flown and non-flown automation elements and the integration of those effects into new Productions and Revivals.

Key Tasks and Responsibilities

To lead, along with the other supervisors on the planning, operation and maintenance of all stage related automated equipment.
To take a creative and imaginative approach to realising creative concepts, and assist Production Managers and other technical staff in finding automation solutions for production design requirements.
To lead on at least two Festival shows with regard to planning, installation and operation of automated equipment on those shows.
To lead, along with the other supervisors on the planning and allocation of all flown items on a seasonal basis.
To lead, along with the other supervisors on any manually operated flying, including the planning for tours and hires.
To lead, along with the other supervisors on the planning and allocation of stage winches, traps and other stage-based automation on a seasonal basis.
To lead, along with the other supervisors on the integration of existing automated elements of existing repertoire shows into the new system, including revolves, traps, hydraulics, pneumatics and I/O effects.
To lead, along with the other supervisors on the programming protocols and ensure a unified approach to how we use the automation desk.
To be the main point of contact, along with the other supervisors with TAIT and have a good understanding of fault finding and troubleshooting.
To act as duty automation supervisor when required
To operate automation during shows and changeovers when required.
To maintain, inspect and troubleshoot automation equipment.
To ensure that all machinery, equipment and accessories are correctly rigged and used according to best practice including the integration of safety systems
To assist with the LOLER and PUWER inspections of stage machinery and equipment.
To ensure best practice regarding use of harnesses and working at height.
To cooperate with other departments in relation to their needs regarding automation and other effects.
To assist with the planning of stage effects for touring and hire Productions.
To communicate effectively on stage and safely integrate our work on stage with other departments including Stage Management
To have an in-depth understanding of Navigator and other TAIT systems and be able to program challenging and unusual automated elements.
To lead on the in-house training of the automation desk and fault finding.
To keep clear, accurate and accessible records of faults, maintenance and show plots.
To maintain a clear flow of information between the stage, automation and other relevant departments
To organise the operation and rigging of special effects
To ensure that all scenery is maintained to the highest standard.
To assist with fit-ups, get outs and all technical aspects of show production including loading and unloading lorries and other non-automation stage-related work.
To undertake, if required, all manner of set refurbishment, painting, cleaning etc, and to assist in the maintenance of productions throughout their run.
To lead on the best practice of Health and Safety and to work alongside others in a safe and efficient manner
To develop a working knowledge of the Glyndebourne Repertoire
To carry out all other duties where required

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

ESSENTIAL

Programming and running of automation on a variety of theatrical shows.
Substantial flying experience
Experience of inspection and use of rigging equipment
Extensive knowledge of automation systems and SOP’s in other theatres.
Electrical/Electronic knowledge
Mechanical/stage engineering knowledge
Solid supervisory and team leadership skills and experience; demonstrable ability to work effectively and proactively either alone or as part of a team
Ability to communicate effectively and sensitively with colleagues and staff at all levels
Excellent knowledge and practical experience of safe working practice within a theatrical environment
Experience of writing Risk Assessments and Method Statements
Working knowledge of Health and Safety legislation and regulations
To be able to complete manual handling

DESIRABLE