Technician (Sound)

Welsh National Opera; Cardiff; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

Welsh National Opera in Cardiff leads on sound engineering for rehearsals and live productions, with responsibilities for equipment maintenance and preparation. The role supports the running of communication systems, conductor cameras, and production video setups, collaborating across Lighting, Sound and Video departments.

The ideal candidate will bring touring theatre experience, a strong understanding of health and safety, and the ability to travel within the UK.

Qualifications

• Lead on sound engineering for live productions and rehearsals.
• Maintain and prepare sound equipment for performances.
• Assist with running communication, conductor camera and production video systems.
• Support colleagues across Lighting, Sound and Video departments as required.

Responsibilities

• Lead on sound in rehearsals and live performances.
• Maintain and prepare audio gear and cables.
• Collaborate with Lighting/Video teams during shows.
• Ensure safety and proper operation of sound/AV equipment.

Skills

Sound engineering

Communication

Health & Safety

IT skills

Theatre touring experience

Education

IPAF 3A & 3B

Tools

Radio microphone systems

Video projection systems

Outlook/Word/Excel

Job description

This a specialist role working within a small team during rehearsals in Cardiff and at venues around the UK. The role will include sound engineering for live productions and rehearsal, equipment maintenance and preparation, get ins & get outs. You will lead on sound engineering and play a role in supporting the running of communication system, conductor camera and production video systems. Assisting colleagues across the Lighting, Sound and Video department as required.

This advert and the full job description are available in both English and Cymraeg. Candidates are welcome to submit applications and participate in interviews in either language.,

• The desire to acquire new experiences and knowledge and to learn new skills.
• Focused on the safe, practical rigging and operation of sound & AV systems.
• Good communication skills, especially verbal.
• Self-motivated and pro-active with the ability to work calmly under pressure and prioritise demands.
• Excellent sound mixing skills in a theatre environment
• Excellent practical skills, knowledge and experience of touring sound & AV systems.
• A basic knowledge of theatrical communication and video systems
• Ability to interpret sound & AV plans.
• Ability to follow risk assessments and method statements.
• A working knowledge of current Health & Safety practice relevant to the role.
• Experience of theatrical touring.
• A flexible approach to the requirements of the job.
• Ability to travel independently within the UK and abroad., Basic IT skills including use of Outlook, Word and Excel.
• Up to date knowledge of current theatrical practice with the ability to keep abreast of new technologies and working practices.
• Orchestral and instrument microphone setups.
• Radio microphone system configuration and deployment.
• Knowledge of production video and projection systems.
• Experience of large-scale touring.
• Existing IPAF 3A & 3B Qualification.
• The potential to grow into a more senior role within technical theatre.
• Full, current UK driving licence.
• An interest in Opera.
• Welsh language speaker/writer.
• We are at a defining moment in our history. Welsh National Opera Cenedlaethol Cymru was born in the post-war spirit of democracy, fuelled by a national passion for human connection through song. In its 80th anniversary year, we are committed to reimagining the company as a contemporary opera company, fit for the 21st century, rooted in Wales but international in its ambition. We want to reimagine what opera can be today, positioning WNOCC as a pioneering, brave and joyful force in the UK's live arts ecology. We want to champion increased diversity on our stages and in our audiences and prove that opera is the dynamic art form of our time.