Lead Production Technician

Cordish Companies; Center (MO); On-site; USD 30,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Cordish Companies in Missouri seeks a Lead Production Technician to be the hands-on technical leader for live events, overseeing audio, lighting and on-site production across a high-volume venue. You will mix FOH audio, program and operate lighting, manage show cues, load-in and strike, and collaborate with Events and Operations teams.

This role requires 5+ years of live-event experience and flexibility for nights, weekends and holidays.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of hands-on live event production experience.
• Strong proficiency in live audio mixing for multiple formats.
• Working knowledge of lighting programming and operation.
• Experience leading shows in fast-paced, public environments.
• Strong troubleshooting skills under live-event pressure.
• Clear, collaborative communication across departments.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary technical lead for live events, including public programming, private events, festivals, and recurring concert series.
• Mix live audio (FOH) for bands, DJs, speakers, and programmed events.
• Program, operate, and maintain lighting systems for live performances and special events.
• Execute show cues, transitions, and run-of-show elements with Events and Operations teams.
• Lead load-in, setup, soundcheck, show operation, and strike for assigned events.
• Operate and maintain in-house audio, lighting, and basic video systems.
• Troubleshoot issues in real time during events and coordinate with vendors as needed.
• Provide input during planning and coordinate with third-party production vendors when required.

Skills

Live event production

Audio mixing (FOH)

Lighting programming

Troubleshooting under pressure

Cross-team collaboration

Communication

Tools

In-house audio systems

Lighting control systems

Basic video playback

Job description

Description

Position Summary:The Lead Production Technician is a hands-on, show-level technical leader responsible for audio, lighting, and on-site production execution across a high-volume live events environment. This role serves as the primary in-house technical owner for all events, ensuring consistent, high-quality execution while reducing reliance on third-party production labor.

The Lead Production Technician is a working technician who mixes audio, operates lighting, and leads on-site technical execution in collaboration with the events and operations teams.

Key Responsibilities

Show Execution & Technical Operations

• Serve as the primary technical lead for live events, including public programming, private events, festivals, and recurring concert series
• Mix live audio (FOH) for bands, DJs, speakers, and programmed events
• Program, operate, and maintain lighting systems for live performances and special events
• Execute show cues, transitions, and run-of-show elements in coordination with the Events Manager and Event Operations Manager
• Lead load-in, setup, soundcheck, show operation, and strike for assigned events

Equipment & Systems

• Operate and maintain in-house audio, lighting, and basic video systems
• Troubleshoot technical issues in real time during live events
• Assist with preventative maintenance, organization, and readiness of production equipment
• Communicate system limitations or technical needs during event planning phases
• Work closely with the Event Operations Manager on day-of execution and technical logistics
• Support the Events Manager during planning by providing technical input and feasibility guidance
• Coordinate with third-party production vendors when supplemental labor or specialty support is required
• Serve as the primary point of contact for visiting technicians on applicable events

Standards & Consistency

• Help establish and maintain consistent production standards across events
• Ensure safe and professional technical practices at all times
• Contribute to post-event debriefs and continuous improvement discussions

Qualifications

Required

• 5+ years of hands-on live event production experience
• Strong proficiency in live audio mixing for bands, DJs, and spoken-word events
• Working knowledge of lighting programming and operation for live entertainment
• Experience operating shows in fast-paced, public-facing environments
• Strong troubleshooting skills under live-event pressure
• Clear communication skills and ability to work collaboratively across departments

Preferred

• Familiarity with permanent-installed AV systems
• Basic knowledge of video playback, signal flow, and show control
• Experience leading or mentoring other technicians
• This role is primarily event-based and will require nights, weekends, and holidays
• Schedule will flex based on event volume and seasonality
• Physical requirements include lifting equipment, standing for extended periods, and working outdoors in varying weather conditions

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.