Scenic Construction Deputy Workshop Manager

Theatr Clwyd is looking for an experienced individual, with skills in set construction, carpentry and/or metal work, to be part of the Scenic Construction Workshop team within our Theatre Making family. With a specialism in construction of sets, this team delivers a service to Theatr Clwyd productions of the highest possible standards, working in our brand-new, on-site construction workshop.

Contract Type - Permanent

Duties and Responsibilities

• To supervise Workshop Assistants, casual and freelance staff and co-ordinate the workshop, advising the Workshop Manager regarding the progress of the work.
• In conjunction with the Workshop Manager, to plan and manage the workflow of the department and lead the team during builds, fit-ups, get-outs and strikes as required, ensuring a safe working environment and compliance with all relevant legislation relating to an industrial workplace (including PUWER, COSHH, LOLER).
• To deputise and manage the department in the absence of the Workshop Manager.
• In conjunction with the Workshop Manager, to be responsible for a clean, tidy and well-ordered working environment and taking particular responsibility for housekeeping in the workshop.
• To order materials and services and in the absence of the Workshop Manager, to liaise with the Production Manager and Head of Production on production and department budgets.
• Under the management of the Workshop Manager, to be responsible for the construction of sets, props or any production item as requested, to the highest possible standards and within the time and budget allocated.
• Alongside the Workshop Manager, to provide designers with all necessary practical information.
• To assist during fit-up and production weeks to ensure they run smoothly.
• To undertake practical work in relation to get-ins, fit-ups, strikes and get-outs, including the assembly, rigging, adjustment and use of scenery, props, rigging and lifting equipment.
• To oversee casual staff as required.
• To work with the Workshop Manager in ensuring training and monitoring of performance of the Workshop Assistants, casual and freelance staff.
• To interpret designs and prepare plans and working drawings, using CAD and other applications.
• To source and order stock and consumable items. To make the Workshop Manager aware should any specialist equipment need to be hired or purchased.
• To work within set budgets.
• Where required, to provide technical assistance to external users.
• To liaise with the Scenic Artist to ensure that the department functions effectively and efficiently throughout the build process, which includes both construction and scenic work.
• To attend meetings as required and to represent the department in the absence of the Workshop Manager.

Health and Safety

• To ensure all Health and Safety requirements are met at all times while working.
• To attend training as required and maintain awareness of Health and Safety regulations specific to the spaces, machinery and equipment used.
• To ensure that all specialist equipment is correctly shut down at the completion of each working day.
• To ensure that all potential hazards are made safe as soon as is practicably possible.
• To produce risk assessments and method statements as required.

Other

• To ensure all equipment is stored safely and is accessible to authorised users.
• Alongside the Workshop Manager, to ensure an inventory of all equipment and materials held and used.
• To provide any other duties as reasonably required by the Workshop Manager, Production Manager or the Head of Production.

Person Specification

• Practical relevant experience working in construction, carpentry and or metal fabrication, ideally in a theatre environment.
• Proven experience of supervising, leading and motivating teams.
• Strong, proven experience in construction and carpentry.
• Strong, proven experience in welding and metal fabrication.
• Ability to use and maintain a wide range of workshop based tools and machinery safely and confidently.
• Ability to use a wide range of portable power tools and hand tools safely and confidently.
• Demonstrable experience in the preparation and interpretation of plans and construction drawings, with a knowledge of CAD and other applications
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with an ability to communicate clearly and consistently with all theatre and event space users, especially non-technical users.
• An organised approach, with a proven track record of meeting deadlines and managing conflicting priorities.
• Experience in implementing Health and Safety requirements and risk assessments.
• Confidence in working independently, but also willingness to collaborate across many departments.
• Ability to work flexible and unsociable hours including evenings and some weekends.
• Experience and knowledge of mainstream UK theatre production.
• Working knowledge of rigging methods and the safe use of lifting gear.
• Experience of setting up and rigging scenery and stage decking systems.
• Current forklift truck certificate.
• Training in manual handling, safe ladder use and working at height.