Master Electrician & Lead Theatre Technician

Jewish Community Center of San Francisco; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 45,460 - 50,971; Full time

Job summary

The Jewish Community Center of San Francisco is seeking a Master Electrician & Lead Theatre Technician to oversee the theatrical lighting systems in performance spaces. This role includes maintaining lighting systems, leading technical operations during events, and ensuring high standards for production execution.

Ideal candidates will have 3-5 years of experience in theatrical lighting, familiarity with CAD software, and strong problem-solving skills. The position requires working evenings and weekends based on the event schedule.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years professional experience in theatrical lighting or equivalent role.
• Hands-on experience with live audio, video, and presentation systems.
• Strong interpersonal and client-facing communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Own and maintain all theatrical lighting systems.
• Serve as lead technician during events, supporting the Production Manager.
• Oversee day-of technical operations across lighting, audio, and video systems.

Skills

Theatrical lighting experience

Proficiency with ETC lighting consoles

Live audio and video systems experience

Strong troubleshooting skills

Communication skills

Tools

Vectorworks CAD software

ETC lighting consoles

Job description

Master Electrician & Lead Theatre Technician

Job Category: Production/Tech/AV

Requisition Number: MASTE001279

Employment Type: Full-Time

Location: San Francisco, CA 94118, USA

Description

Salary Range: $33.00 per hour - $37.00 per hour.

General Description

Primary technical lead responsible for all theatrical lighting systems and infrastructure within JCCSF performance spaces, serving as the Theatre Master Electrician. This role oversees the maintenance, design, and integration of lighting systems in Kanbar Hall and other venues to ensure operational reliability and performance readiness. Additionally, this position functions as Lead Theatre Technician, supporting the Production Manager in the execution of performances and events. The role leads day‑of technical operations, coordinates technical crew, and ensures all lighting, audio‑visual, and staging components are executed to a high standard.

Responsibilities

Theatre Master Electrician (Primary)

• Own and maintain all theatrical lighting systems in Kanbar Hall and associated performance spaces.
• Maintain and update the repertory lighting plot using Vectorworks CAD software.
• Lead integration of visiting lighting designs into house systems.
• Plan, schedule, and oversee lighting hang, focus, and strike calls in coordination with the Production Manager.
• Troubleshoot and resolve lighting system issues to ensure operational reliability.
• Recommend equipment purchases, upgrades, and rentals based on programmatic needs and budget considerations.
• Maintain lighting inventory, infrastructure, and distribution systems.
• Support exhibition lighting installations and ongoing adjustments.

Lead Theatre Technician (Event Execution)

• Serve as lead technician during events, supporting the Production Manager in execution.
• Oversee day‑of technical operations across lighting, audio, and video systems.
• Direct and support technical crew to ensure all positions are properly staffed and executed.
• Ensure all technical elements align with advance documentation and production requirements.
• Act as on‑site technical lead to troubleshoot and resolve issues in real time.
• Coordinate with internal teams and external clients to ensure successful event delivery.

Audio‑Visual Systems & Event Support

• Set up, operate, and strike AV systems including audio, video, and presentation equipment.
• Operate live sound, playback, and switching systems as required.
• Record events and provide audio/video feeds as needed.
• Integrate AV systems with IT/network infrastructure where required.

Planning & Documentation

Develop and manage technical advance documentation for performances and events.

Collaborate with Production Manager on scheduling, planning, and logistics.

Maintain thorough knowledge of installed systems, inventory, and technical capabilities.

Requirements

• 3–5 years professional experience in theatrical lighting (Master Electrician or equivalent role preferred).
• Proficiency with ETC lighting consoles (Gio preferred).
• Experience with Vectorworks or comparable CAD software.
• Hands‑on experience with live audio, video systems, and presentation technology.
• Familiarity with AV integration and IT/network systems.
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical execution and direct event‑based crews.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills in live event environments.
• Strong interpersonal and client‑facing communication skills.
• Experience operating front‑of‑house audio and video systems strongly preferred.

Working Conditions

Work is primarily performed on‑site across theaters, event spaces, and meeting rooms. Position requires frequent evening and weekend work based on event and production schedules. Work is often performed in dark, loud, or high‑pressure live event environments.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to stand for extended periods during event execution.
• Ability to work at height, including ladders and lifts.
• Ability to work in confined or elevated technical spaces.
• Manual dexterity required for handling technical equipment and cabling.

Job Details

Collective Bargaining Unit Classification: Professional 2

Hours: 40 hours per week.

Schedule: Flexibility required. Typically, Monday – Friday, with evenings/weekends required based on event schedule.

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.