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Job Description / Duties

Pacific Opera Victoria is currently accepting applications for seasonal production positions for the 2026-2027 season. These positions are seasonal contracts running from July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027 with the Pacific Opera shop typically operating from July to May. All Opera Shop production staff work under the jurisdiction of IATSE Local 168.

HOURS OF WORK:
The typical work week is Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5:00pm. The positions require some evening and weekend work, and hours will vary depending on production schedules.
- Carpentry, 8:00am-4:30pm
- Wardrobe, 8:30am-5:00pm
- Props, 8:30am-5:00pm
- Paint, 8:00am – 4:30pm Wednesday – Sunday

JOB SUMMARY
The duties of the Head Carpenter shall include but not be limited to the co-ordination of the Set Construction Department and the manufacture of all scenic elements as specified in the designs. The Head Carpenter is responsible for disbursement of the assigned budget and delegation of work required for the efficient operation of the Department. They shall produce construction drawings for all scenery; liaise with designers regarding details and finishing techniques as specified in the designs, liaise with other departments to coordinate and accomplish the timely completion of finishing techniques. They shall be responsible for the care and maintenance of shop equipment, ensure that all scenery is constructed and rigged to ensure safe installation and use at the performance venue. They shall plan and manage pack, load in, load out, and onstage set notes.

Qualifications / Required Skills

SKILLS & RESPONSIBILITIES
• Apply advanced carpentry skills to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality scenic builds
• Construct and fabricate scenic elements from technical drawings and designer specifications
• Develop construction drawings and documentation for scenic builds
• Oversee scenic construction and rigging, with a proactive, safety-first approach
• Liaise with designers and all production departments to ensure seamless collaboration and timely completion of scenic elements
• Plan and supervise all aspects of load-in, installation, onstage adjustments, and strike
• Collaborate with other departments (paint, props, electrics, costumes, etc.) to support integrated production needs
• Supervise and delegate tasks to carpentry staff and casual crew, fostering a respectful, collaborative work environment
• Manage assigned budgets, schedules, and materials procurement for scenic builds
• Travel as Production Supervisor for production rentals and co-productions as needed
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized shop and stage environment in compliance with safety standards
• Inspect and maintain shop equipment, power tools, and rigging gear
• Maintain accurate inventory and maintenance records of scenic equipment and materials
• Support other production activities, including special events, rentals, and touring needs
• Attend production and company meetings as required
• Demonstrate problem-solving and adaptability in a fast-paced production environment
• Promote and uphold a respectful, inclusive, and professional workplace
• Communicate clearly, respectfully, and professionally with designers, team members and production staff

QUALIFICATIONS
• Minimum 5 years of professional experience in theatrical carpentry or scenic construction
• Post-secondary education in technical theatre, scenic construction, or equivalent professional experience
• Proficient in reading and interpreting scenic and construction drawings
• Experience supervising crew in unionized production environments, with a leadership style that promotes collaboration and mutual respect
• Strong knowledge of rigging systems, fly systems, safety standards, and industry practices
• Working knowledge of scenic materials and construction techniques, Carpentry, welding, etc.
• Experience with costing, scheduling, and managing resources
• Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple deadlines
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel)
• Familiarity with CAD software such as Vectorworks (asset)
• Valid Class 5 BC driver’s license (asset)
• First Aid certification (asset)
• Fall Arrest and Elevated Work Platform Certification (asset)
• Comfortable working at heights, with power tools, in low-light or loud environments, and lifting up to 50 lbs.

Additional Information

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
2025-2026 Hourly Wage: $37.87 + benefits (2026-2027 rates to be negotiated)

Benefits include:
• 5% in employer RRSP contributions
• 5% vacation pay
• 4% in lieu of benefits
• Access to a health and welfare fund paid for by Pacific Opera and administered by IATSE Local 168
• Guaranteed Minimum Hours for the season: 800

Salary: 2025-2026 Hourly Wage: $37.87 + benefits (2026-2027 rates to be negotiated)

Contact Information

APPLICATIONS:
Please submit cover letter, resume and portfolio (if available) electronically by end of day June 15, 2026
Include in Subject Header: 2026-2027 Seasonal Shop Position - Head Carpenter
Email to: jobs@pacificopera.ca 
ATTN: Christopher Sibbald, Director of Production & Artistic Administration
Applications will be reviewed as received. The positions will remain open until filled
We thank all applicants for their interest. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

Employer Profile

Pacific Opera Victoria is one of the most influential professional opera companies in Canada. Its inspired repertoire comprises original productions of classic favourites and lesser known works, as well as new commissions, co-productions, and collaborations with other companies and arts organizations across the country. From its home in the Baumann Centre, Pacific Opera Victoria creates significant career opportunities for creative and performing artists and curates opera in surprising ways – enticing newcomers and
captivating loyal opera-goers.

Pacific Opera Victoria identifies Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Reconciliation among its Core Values and encourages applications from candidates of diverse backgrounds.