Wheeler Theater Technician - Lighting Specialist

City of Aspen; Aspen (CO); On-site; USD 39,358 - 59,057; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Up to $3,000 Sign On Bonus

Comprehensive benefits

Training opportunities

Job summary

A local government is seeking a Wheeler Theater Technician - Lighting Specialist to support events at the Wheeler Opera House in Aspen, Colorado. This full-time position includes responsibilities such as configuring lighting, providing technical support, and maintaining theater equipment. The ideal candidate has a minimum of five years' experience in technical theater, possesses strong communication skills, and a preferred degree in Audio Engineering or Technical Theater. Competitive hourly pay ranges from $28.57 to $32.15, with a potential sign-on bonus.

Qualifications

• Minimum of five years of experience in technical theater or lighting design.
• Proficient with industry-standard lighting equipment and strong understanding of modern lighting technology.
• Valid Colorado Driver’s License or ability to obtain one.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Production Manager to understand technical needs for events.
• Configure and program lighting for various events.
• Perform regular inspections and maintenance of lighting equipment.

Skills

Lighting design

Technical theater

Communication skills

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Associates or Bachelors degree in Audio Engineering or Technical Theater

Tools

Digital lighting consoles

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Outlook

Job description

Job Postings Closing Dates: A job posting may close before the listed deadline if the number of applications reaches the limit for that position. If the original deadline produced fewer applications than expected, the posting may remain open longer.

Application: The application must be filled out completely; stating "see resume" anywhere in the application, is not an acceptable substitute for a completed application.

Bonus: Up to $3,000 Sign On Bonus may be available.

Pay Ranges:

• Hiring Range: The hiring range covers the starting segment of the pay scale, from the entry point up to the first quartile (Q1). Starting pay is determined based on the candidate’s qualifications and experience.
• Salary Range: The salary range reflects the full pay range for the position, from the minimum rate to the maximum rate. This represents the earning potential employees can achieve over time while in the role.

The City of Aspen offers competitive and comprehensive benefits, perks, and training opportunities: https://www.aspen.gov/213/Benefits

Job Title: Wheeler Theater Technician - Lighting Specialist

Department: Wheeler Opera House

Classification: Non-Exempt

Hiring Range: $28.57/ hourly - $32.15/ hourly

Salary Range: $28.57/ hourly - $42.87/ hourly

Essential Job Functions:

Event & Production Support

• With an emphasis on the theater’s lighting systems, collaborates with Production Manager and Assistant Production Manager to understand and fulfill technical needs for events and performances hosted, presented, or produced by the Wheeler Opera House.
• Attends meetings as necessary in preparation for upcoming events.
• Corresponds with event producers, visiting companies, and vendors. Completes administrative duties such as reviewing production riders, confirming timecards, and completing event reports.
• Assists with the set‑up, execution, and tear‑down for events.
• Under the direction of the Production Manager or Assistant Production Manager, provides technical support for visiting artists, clients, and lighting personnel. Demonstrates competency in safely and effectively operating theater audio, rigging, and projection equipment.
• Maintains and safeguards theater assets. Guides facility rental clients and visiting productions on safety protocol and supervises use of Wheeler equipment.

Technical Operations & Lighting Leadership

• Serves as a technical generalist for events, as needed.
• Serves as lead lighting technician and electrician for events:
• Configures and programs lighting deployments for various events, ensuring optimal lighting design and coverage for live and recorded events.
• Sets up lighting systems including moving instruments, LEDs, ground rows, and follow spots.
• Provides live lighting design and delivery for a variety of performances, adapting to the needs of artists, directors, designers, producers, and event organizers.
• Operates motorized rigging system for lifting and moving stage equipment.
• Hangs and focuses lighting instruments. Programs and operates lighting console to build attractive lighting looks. Operates follow spots.

Equipment Maintenance & Inventory

• Performs regular inspections, preventive maintenance, and repairs on lighting equipment to minimize downtime and extend equipment life.
• Maintains inventory and detailed records of equipment usage, maintenance, and repairs.
• Makes recommendations to Production Manager and Assistant Production Manager regarding purchases, upgrades, or replacements.
• Maintains a clean, organized, and safe work environment.

Safety & Compliance

• Maintains safety of all personnel on stage by ensuring OSHA compliance of stage labor practices and any Union requirements of visiting productions.
• Ensures adherence to house policies and safety standards.

Professional Development & Staff Training

• Stays current on production industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in theatrical lighting.
• Identifies ways to continue education on best practices and expand skillsets.
• Trains and supervises part‑time, student, and volunteer technical staff on proper use of lighting equipment and safety protocol.
• Assists with budgeting for lighting equipment, supplies, and staffing.

Budgeting & Leadership

• Acts as crew head, as assigned, in the absence of Production Manager or Assistant Production Manager.

City Organizational Values

• Supports and models the City of Aspen organizational values: Service, Partnership, Stewardship, and Innovation.
• Upholds and applies these values while performing daily work functions.

• Other duties as assigned.

Education:

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent. Associates or Bachelors degree in Audio Engineering, Technical Theater, or related field is preferred.

Experience:

• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in technical theater or lighting design.
• Multiple years with experience in lighting design, programming, and video projection in a theater, performing arts center, or live music venue is preferred.

Technical Knowledge:

• Proficient with industry‑standard lighting equipment including digital lighting consoles (e.g. ETC, Grand MA, and Chamsys) with strong understanding of modern lighting technology including, but not limited to LED, intelligent fixtures, and lighting control systems.
• Proficient with Microsoft Word, and Outlook (Email).
• Strong understanding of computers and online computer‑based technology applications, including accessing web‑based platforms.

Licenses & Certifications:

• Valid Colorado Driver’s License or ability to obtain one within 30 days of start date.

NOTE:

• Any combination of experience and education that would likely provide the required abilities, knowledge, and skills as determined by the City of Aspen may be substituted for the requirements above.

NOTE:

• This position requires a physical examination (to be completed at Grand River Health Clinic West – Parachute) and a Criminal Background Check upon hire. Employment is contingent upon passing a physical examination and a Criminal Background Check.

Position Type and Work Hours:

• Regular Full‑Time, 40 hour work week. Schedule will vary with workload and event requirements.
• Evenings/Weekends will frequently be required depending on department needs and event calendar. Work on Holidays may occasionally be required.
• Indoors: Performing arts center environment, including a regular need to work at heights, have exposure to noise and vibration, extended hours in darkness or limited lighting, in addition to a typical office environment.
• Outdoors/Off‑Site: Meetings, special events, and trainings. Position may require removal of snow and ice from walkways and truck loading areas. May need to operate a city vehicle to travel to off‑site locations.

YOU MUST APPLY ONLINE THROUGH THE CITY WEBSITE FOR CONSIDERATION.

This job description outlines general duties and responsibilities and is not an exhaustive list. Other duties may be assigned.

The City of Aspen is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

More information: https://www.aspen.gov/183/Job-Opportunities (Full Time Positions)