Senior Automation Technician

Royal Shakespeare Company; Stratford-upon-Avon; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

The Royal Shakespeare Company seeks an experienced Automation Technician to lead automation efforts for their productions. You will ensure the successful integration of technical systems, manage projects, and collaborate with a dedicated team to enhance performance quality in a world-class theatre setting. This full-time role offers an opportunity to thrive in a supportive environment focused on creativity and inclusivity.

Benefits

Great benefits package

Supportive work environment

Focus on inclusivity and sustainability

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of electrical and electronic control systems for theatrical applications.
• Ability to manage automation projects from specification to execution.
• Knowledge of Health and Safety in a stage environment.

Responsibilities

• Participate in fitting, installing, and programming automation systems for productions.
• Liaise with production teams on automation requirements and project management.
• Ensure smooth operation during rehearsals and performances.

Skills

Electrical control systems

Theatre staging and engineering

Health and Safety legislation

Job description

Are you experienced in theatre staging, stage engineering, rigging, slinging and flying performers in a safe way? Can you fault find and rectify problems in electromechanical show control systems? Do you know how to use Stage Technologies/Tait systems? Are you looking to work as part of a small, friendly, and hard-working team in a world class theatre environment?

We are looking for an experienced Automation Technician to be a senior member of the RSC Automation team, working alongside colleagues to realise the automation ambitions of productions through their entire lifecycle, from the specification, build, commissioning, and maintaining through to the breaking down for potential future use. We often include many different automated effects including revolves, performer flying, scenic control, traps/lifts, sliders and more. You will be joining a small, experienced, hardworking team who are proud of the work they do to enable our productions to run smoothly.

Reporting to Head of Automation, key areas of responsibility include (please see the full job description and person specification for the comprehensive list):

• To participate in the smooth running of all get-ins, fitting, installing, commissioning, programming, rehearsals, performances, changeovers and get-outs, including taking the lead Automation role during nominated performances.
• To liaise with members of other Production and Technical Departments concerning automation requirements, progressing from design stage to completion of the various required elements ensuring that costs and other technical consequences are communicated to all relevant departments.
• To project-manage new shows in rotation with other Senior Automation Technicians.
• To assist in the effective day-to-day running of the Automation department, helping to ensure that the highest possible standards are maintained within budgetary and technical constraints.
• To attend production, planning and other meetings and notes sessions as required, respond to show reports, acting as a representative for the Automation department and assuming responsibility for the automation systems.

To be suitable for this role, it is essential that you have the following knowledge and experience:

• A good knowledge of the specification, setting up and operation of electrical and electronic control systems both as stand-alone and for integration into existing systems.
• Ability to assess, specify and source, electrical, electronic, and electro-mechanical equipment as best fits individual project requirements.
• A good knowledge and understanding of industry standard electrical and electronic control systems, as used in theatrical automation applications.
• A good knowledge and awareness of Health and Safety legislation and procedures and its implications both on work colleagues and within the stage environment.
• A good knowledge and understanding of theatre staging, stage engineering, rigging, slinging, and flying.

This is a full-time, permanent position based in Stratford upon Avon. You will be working 48 hours per week, over 6 days, including evening and weekend work.

Application Process

All applications should be made online using the RSC website. If you need any assistance when applying, please email [e-mail]

The role will close at midnight on 29 June., with interviews expected to take place shortly after.

About the RSC

The RSC strives for excellence, and values creativity, inclusivity, sustainability, collaboration, and accountability.

We can offer great benefits and aim to create a welcoming, supportive environment which is happy, healthy and safe. We place great importance upon developing a diverse, highly motivated and energised workforce to help achieve our priorities. We put our values at the heart of everything we do.

We are committed to building a diverse workforce and welcome applications from all individuals.

We believe that safeguarding children and adults is everyone's responsibility, and everybody working at the RSC has a duty to place safeguarding at the heart of their work. We welcome candidates who will support and advocate the RSC's environmental objectives continuing to improve our sustainability work and actions both on and off stage.

The Royal Shakespeare Company (no. 212481) is a registered charity.