Production Electrician - School of Theatre Arts

Production Electrician - School of Theatre Arts

The Production Electrician at Illinois Wesleyan University (IWU) works closely with the Lighting Designer(s) and Technical Director in the School of Theatre Arts (SoTA) to coordinate, supervise, and train students on the execution of designs and safe operation of lighting systems equipment. This person should have experience in lighting network protocols and the safe distribution of electricity. This is a full time, 10 month/year (August-May) on-campus position. Generous benefits include health, retirement, considerable time off, and access to multiple tuition programs for employees and dependents.

Responsibilities:

• Execute designs for theatrical lighting; meet with the lighting designer to review completed light plot, equipment availability, and budget; determine placement of instruments and necessary support structures; establish a light circuiting plan for safe power and data distribution; collaborate on production needs by attending meetings as scheduled, planning load-ins and strikes, supporting lighting designer with focus work, answering questions and address concerns
• Maintain and repair inventory of stage lighting on campus, prioritizing Mirza Theatre, Melba Laboratory Theatre, Westbrook Auditorium, and other venues as directed; ensure orderly storage, upkeep, and readiness of equipment for performance; renew licensed software; routinely assess infrastructure and supplies; make strategic recommendations for investment in technological upgrades as warranted
• Coordinate, supervise and train students in crew appointments and school-appointed work study; engage with students across the program, overseeing their work and cross-disciplinary learning; assist faculty, guest artists, production management, and staff with communications and scheduling; lead work sessions as needed to make required adjustments to light plot; ensure all crew, student workers, and production stakeholders are aware of safety guidelines, dressed appropriately, and wearing required personal protective equipment
• Consult and support on electronics for ancillary priorities and university partnerships, as assigned; arrange for timely return of borrowed or rented equipment; periodic research and outreach for contracted projection or sound needs; assist with classroom resources or reinforcement of instruction; serve as point of contact for lighting and electronics in Westbrook Auditorium

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Technical Theatre, Entertainment/Live Production or Design, Electrical Technology preferred; a combination of education and professional experience or industry apprenticeship may substitute for a degree
• Desired industry certifications beneficial and might include Entertainment Technician Certification Program (ETCP), Certified Electrical Safety Compliance Professional (CESCP) or Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)
• Minimum of three years related experience including but not limited to adaptability of venues, layout and equipment inventory and operation of a single-person bucket lift. Proficient in ETC Eos Family Consoles; rigging and balancing a double purchase fly system; working knowledge of professional lighting software for the entertainment industry, specifically Vectorworks and Lightwright 6
• Valid Driver's licence; occasional regional travel for rental or equipment acquisition
• Physical demands: Ability to lift and transport heavy objects (up to 50 lbs regularly). Frequent stand, walk, climb stairs, ladders and carry heavy loads; safe operation of electrical equipment. Ability to safely maneuver high places and loud noise level.
• Standard shift: Monday-Friday, 10am-6pm, with occasional adjustments due to forecast and production needs. Weekend hours for performances and special events.

Level 19 - $22.72/hr

Illinois Wesleyan University