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Job Description / Duties

Applications are now being received for the above position in the Recreation and Culture Services Department, Development Services Commission. To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter by December 30, 2021. Join us and make a lasting difference!

JOB SUMMARY
The role of the Backstage Technician is to plan, and ensure timely provision of lighting, costumes, props, sets, and sound elements to established show standards as per client specifications and City of Markham policies.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Reviews the client contract and production schedule for each performance and the required, lighting, sound, set design, props, costumes and/or special effects required by the client, timing and performances. Reviews instructions from Production & Facility and/or more senior technical staff regarding each production and any special needs of client.
• Manager and/or more senior technical staff regarding each production and any special needs of client.
• Oversees and participates in the technical layout and design of lighting, sets and sound through use of appropriate theatre techniques.
• Creates and implements special effects as outlined in the client contract.
• Meets with each client and reviews any special needs with respect to the production or a particular performance. Provides technical services, advice and expertise in the areas of lighting, audio, staging and special effects for the clients of the Theatre and for events taking place at the Theatre. Ensures the client is content with the technical aspects of their show, and with the technical support being provided by the Flato Markham Theatre.
• Creates and programs effective lighting for simple to extremely complicated types of performances. Makes artistic decisions in regards to colour, angle, size, focus, etc. Sets-up lighting system for different usages including hanging and focusing 300 plus lights. Programs and operates moving lighting fixtures. Creates lighting looks for productions while the performance is in progress.
• Operates theatrical equipment including stage foggers/hazers, projectors, follow spots, curtains, winch pipes, and other various equipment Program and operate manual and computerized lighting consoles.
• Creates and implements audio plots and provides audio support for all types of performances. Sets-up audio systems, programs audio analogue and digital consoles and makes decisions on selection and placement for more then 50 mics. and 12 monitor speakers. Sets-up and troubleshoots wireless microphones, playback equipment and rental equipment. Sets-up and operates a front of house or monitor audio rig. Troubleshoots audio problems during a production.
• Sets-up any scenic elements for production. Rigs scenery safely above stage.
• Troubleshoots difficult problems during rehearsals and performances.
• After each production, counts, secures and signs off on all City of Markham, lighting, sound, set and production equipment and supplies. Ensures that all equipment is functional and notifies the Production & Facility Manager of any required repairs, materials, tools and supplies.
• Informs the clients of the Flato Markham Theatre of respective health and safety policies and procedures.
• Ensures specific safety precautions are followed in the stage area prior to rehearsals and and/or performances when conditions are hazardous (i.e. crowded, dark, foggy, moving elements etc).
• Monitors client activity to ensure that Flato Markham Theatre safety policies and procedures are followed and advises clients of any required changes. Notifies the Production & Facility Manager and/or more senior technical staff of any issues.
• Writes comprehensive notes in show report regarding the specific area of operation they are responsible for on any specific show.
• Assists with evacuation procedures in the event of a fire alarm or other emergency. This includes making announcements in the house for the audience and through the backstage areas for the performers and crew informing people to evacuate.

Qualifications / Required Skills

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• A two year Cinema, Television, Stage and Radio Arts diploma program or Theatre Production diploma program or Theatre Studies diploma program with a specialization in theatre technology is required in order to gain skills including but not limited to use of lighting consoles, audio consoles, moving lights, audio processors, or personal computers, understanding and interpreting blueprints, schematic drawings, lighting and audio plots, screening, complex, technical charts and diagrams.
• The entrance requirement is a high school diploma or equivalent with at least 60 per cent in English Language Arts.
• Upon completion of A two year Cinema, Television, Stage and Radio Arts diploma program or Theatre Production diploma program or Theatre Studies diploma program, six months to 1 year of live theatre relevant work is required to perform complex lighting, sound, special effects, and stage design for complex productions including the provision of instruction/guidance to others.
• In lieu of the above educational requirements, a high school diploma and at least 5 years of live theatre relevant work experience is required with specialized experienced in designing audio and lighting programs for theatrical performances.
• This experience is necessary to perform highly complex lighting, sound, special effects, and stage design for highly complex productions including the provision of instruction/guidance and delegation of work to technical staff
• Standard first aid and CPR 'C'
• Lift certification (within 3 months of start date)
• Fall protection certification (within 2 months of start date)
• AED
• Good verbal/written communication skills, customer service skills and sensitivity to interact with a diversity of clients in a courteous and efficient manner
• Advanced audio visual and/or other trades' skills
• Knowledge of technical Theatre language and headset etiquette is mandatory
• Good organizational leadership skills are required to organize, guide and instruct technical crew at all skill levels and to interface with clients in satisfying their production needs
• Knowledge of Lighting and Audio design programs in CAD

CORE BEHAVIOURS

• Service Excellence: Meets or exceeds service standards when interacting with customers in the community and in the organization.
• Change & Innovation: Responds positively and professionally to change and helps others through change.
• Teamwork & Relationship Building: Interacts with others in an inclusive, collaborative and respectful way that creates effective working relationships.
• Communication: Communicates in a clear, professional and respectful way; demonstrates active listening.
• Accountable & Results Oriented: Demonstrates ethical behaviour and accountability, aligns with City values, and abides by relevant policies and legislation.
• Management & Leadership: Demonstrates self-management, professionalism and engagement; leads by example.

The City of Markham is committed to inclusive, accessible and barrier free employment practices and to creating a workplace that reflects and supports the diversity of the community we serve. Please let us know if you require an accommodation and we will work with you to ensure a barrier free hiring process.

The City of Markham has established a mandatory vaccination requirement for staff related to the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, should you be a successful candidate for a position with the City of Markham you will be required to provide proof of full vaccination upon a conditional offer of employment. Should you require accommodation in accordance with the Human Rights policy with respect to your vaccine status, you will be required to disclose that at the time of conditional offer so that an accommodation can be developed prior to your start date.

Salary: $15 - $25/hr

Contact Information

Apply here.

Employer Profile

City of Markham
The City of Markham, an award-winning municipality with more than 353,000 residents, is Canada’s high-tech capital and most diverse community, enjoying a rich heritage, outstanding community planning and services, and a vibrant local economy. Committed to being a model of public service excellence, with a workforce that is representative of the population we serve, we are looking for people who share our values and are champions of innovative practices. Diversity is one of Markham’s strategic priorities, and we strive to develop and maintain an environment that is inclusive and creates a sense of belonging for all.