Head Carpenter - PAW Patrol Live! A Mighty Adventure
Stage Carpentry & Props
We are looking for our next Head Carpenter technician to join VStar Entertainment Group’s Touring Theatrical Crew. The main objective of this role is to oversee and manage the show’s carpentry department. This position would be responsible for assembling the grid and hung scenic elements; working as a member of deck crew in scene changes and show presets in relation to the stage set and any staging pieces as determined by supervisors; maintaining cue track documentation; conducting regular maintenance of all department equipment in an effort to maintain the artistic “look” of the event from performance and operational standpoints; and reflecting professionalism of the company and its equipment while adhering to Best Practice Safety Protocols.
The Head Carpenter will have the opportunity to:
- Supervise carpentry department and local crews in the construction of the grid trussing, assembly and continued maintenance of all hung elements, soft goods, and scenery;
- Strive to maintain the artistic “look” of the show from performance and operation standpoints;
- Learn, memorize, and effectively perform backstage deck track assigned to role, including scene changes and rope pulling, and participate in cue track rotation as directed by management;
- Troubleshoot operation of all carpentry elements during performances;
- Train local crews in each venue with backstage deck track assigned to carpentry locals;
- Based on skill set, be a member of the rig team and assist with making decisions on grid trussing placement;
- Participate in special projects including the installation of new carpentry show elements, and interdepartmental projects that include carpentry elements or other needs that may fall within the technician’s specialty as directed;
- Work with prop and wardrobe department heads to make a master track sheet of all event cues and scene changes. Continue to coordinate with department heads and tour management with updates throughout the duration of the tour;
- Act in a supervisory role for carpentry assistant and local crew in the construction and breakdown of all elements in carpentry department;
- Function as a “hands on” working department head for show support staff, communicating and assessing problems with show equipment and providing possible solutions throughout tour;
- Responsible for continually seeking to improve efficiency of carpentry department operation;
- Plan and implement maintenance procedures for elements pertaining to department, assessing maintenance needs and implement necessary steps to assure operational safety and integrity;
- Communicate maintenance needs and coordinate work call availability to tour management;
- Work with tour management to maintain carpentry department operation expenses;
- Perform assigned duties and responsibilities under minimal supervision, and recognize when assistance is required;
- Complete documentation of post-engagement operations reports in a timely fashion as assigned by management;
- Assist in directing local crews during load in and load out;
- Assist with loading and unloading of trailers and show assets;
- Assemble and disassemble all equipment associated with, but not limited to, the carpentry department;
- Maintain a flexible schedule for work calls, special events, rehearsal/training, maintenance and show performances;
- Work with carpentry department assistant and tour management to establish and maintain training and backup plans to ensure continuity of performance operations of the department in the event of unexpected failure of a system, component or piece of equipment;
- Coordinate with and provide support as needed for other departments, production management, artistic management, and show support staff during rehearsals, training, load-in, load-out, and performances to maintain safe and consistent tour operation;
- Assist with managing inventory of show supplies relevant to the carpentry department, working with department assistant and tour management to procure replacements and stock as needed;
- Create, update and accurately maintain cue sheets and show documentation, and participate in cue track rotation as directed;
- Ensure all carpentry departmental designs, equipment, systems, functions, procedures, maintenance, and inspection logs, special projects, etc. are properly and adequately documented;
- Assist in the development and implementation of preventative maintenance routines and inspections – particularly life safety and show critical;
- Adhere to and promote all Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations as they pertain to the safe operation of all elements related to the show; participate in all required health and safety classes and emergency rescue procedure training;
- Uphold responsibility for own professional standards of conduct, appearance, workmanship, and personal safety as set forth by VStar Entertainment with fellow tour members, outside vendors, local labor, and clients;
- Perform other work-related tasks and projects as assigned by tour management;
What does it take for this role? The following hard skills are the basics of what’s needed to be successful in this position:
- Related experience, or combination of training and/or education in carpentry as it relates to live performances;
- At least 1-3 years of previous experience in a leadership role for carpentry in a similar or related environment;
- Ability to effectively train, develop and evaluate assigned staff;
- Knowledge of theatrical fly systems;
- Knowledge of rigging, hoists, and running motors;
- Experience as a deck hand in backstage settings as it relates to a live performance with flying elements;
- Knowledge of hand tools and some power tools;
- Basic understanding of theatrical terms and directions;
- Ability to effectively navigate a crowded theatrical backstage work area during load ins, performances, and load outs;
- Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals;
- Ability to understand instructions in oral, written and diagram form in order to apply common sense to troubleshoot and solve problems;
- Willingness to work extensive and irregular work hours; early morning, afternoon, evening, late evening, weekend, and holidays is common;
- Experience with loading in and loading out in a theatrical setting preferred;
- Touring experience appreciated but not required;
- If required for position, be an active IATSE union member or willingness to join;
- Fluent in English, both written and spoken;
- If applicable for the tours travel schedule must be and remain in good standing with all proper authorities throughout the Services Period, including maintaining the validity of one’s passport and the ability to travel internationally;
- Verification of the right to work in the United States for Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, as demonstrated by completion of the Form I-9 upon hire and the submission of acceptable documentation (as noted on the Form I-9) verifying one’s identity and work authorization;
- Able to pass a background check, which may include, but is not limited to, credit, criminal, DMV, previous employment, education, and personal references, per Company policy, unless prohibited by federal, state, or provincial law;
About VStar Entertainment
VStar Entertainment is one of North America’s leading producers and promoters of live family entertainment. With decades of experience bringing beloved brands to life on stage, VStar creates immersive, high-quality touring productions that captivate audiences of all ages. VStar Entertainment is owned and operated by Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group.
Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group is committed to creating and maintaining an accessible and inclusive workplace. Proud ambassador of equality in employment, Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group is committed to eliminating discrimination based on age, skin color, origins, religion, sex, sexual orientation and any other characteristic. Neutral and inclusive writing is now preferred for all new job postings.
