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Technical Director

Technical Director

United Kingdom

Full Time

About the Role

Working in conjunction with the Show Operations Director this role will be responsible for the setup and operation of all automation and rigging systems within the venue, inspection and troubleshooting of all venue automation equipment, as well as participating in all sets/strikes in the venue. The Technical Director will act as the head of rigging and be responsible for leading a team of 3 automation and rigging technicians, and operating the TAIT automation console during performances when required.

Area of responsibility

  • Communicate with vendors, laborers, and client-based technical personnel for organization and execution of shows in a safe and professional manner. This includes regular weekly meetings with internal and external departments.

  • Demonstrate understanding of all technical aspects of the show and be able to explain such things to various personnel (laborers with / without experience, clients, performers etc.).

  • Acquire and demonstrate awareness of both ted and the venue’s safety procedures including Emergency Action Plans, PPE Requirements and additional protocols.

  • Familiarity with a wide range of show control systems (including Pandora’s Box media servers, TAIT NOMAD automation consoles, and Novastar LED system controls) highly preferred

  • Cirque or other aerialist experience; experience working with performer flying systems is essential

  • Familiarity with turntable stages and automatic lifts/traps

  • Assist Show Operations Director withing providing the company with weekly voyage reports /updates and with progress photos as necessary.

  • Assist with overall production needs as reasonably requested.

  • Lead daily inspections and pre-checks of all automation and flying equipment, including motors, winches, cables, hardware, and harnesses

  • Effectively troubleshoot and report any technical issues with equipment in the venue as they arise

  • Regular interaction and collaboration with the Show Operations Director and the ship Lead Technician.

  • Working show tracks: Operate automation consoles, oversee automation technicians, assist performers into harnesses during shows, connect harnesses to rigging points, and perform spotting duties for aerialists

  • Ensure completion of post-show duties after each performance, ensuring all automation equipment is safely stowed and powered down, filing nightly reports, and planning any necessary maintenance prior to next show

  • Oversee any events to take place within the theater space from a technical perspective

  • To create and enhance the guest experience on board making sure all events are delivered at the highest technical standard possible.

  • To ensure events and rehearsals start on time and all technical requirements are met.

  • Co-ordinate the other members of the Technical Team with completing accurate maintenance and equipment records of all the technical equipment on board and comply with the cleaning and maintenance schedule for the department.

  • To ensure that the company's show product is always delivered in its integrity and up to the agreed standard after the install period.

  • To ensure your appearance and grooming guidelines are always maintained.

  • To uphold the standards set out in your training.

  • A position of onboard responsibility will be held with regards to emergency procedures, guest mustering and drills (full training received on board).

Scope of duties 

  • Reporting to the Show Operations Director Onboard & Cruise Technical Manager Shoreside, the Technical Director is responsible for the safe & effective execution of all show equipment onboard the vessel. Overseeing all aspects of the production including lighting, video, sound, aerial apparatuses & automation, the Technical Director will also be responsible for managing a team of up to 7 technicians.

  • Working in conjunction with the Show Operations Director this role will be responsible for the setup and operation of all automation and rigging systems within the venue, inspection and troubleshooting of all venue automation equipment, as well as participating in all sets/strikes in the venue. The Technical Director will act as the head of rigging and be responsible for leading a team of 3 automation and rigging technicians, and operating the TAIT automation console during performances when required.

  • You will get the chance to work with the latest entertainment technology equipment to support the delivery of the entertainment programme. As a Technician within the Entertainment Technical Team, you will support the production operation in the theatre, supporting the Show Operations Director in the management of the team. If required you may also be required to step up into the Show Operations Director role & call the shows in case of Show Operations Director’s absence, likewise with all other technical roles within the team.

  • As a member of the Entertainment Department, a position of responsibility will be held with regards to emergency procedures, guest mustering and drills; specific training will be received regarding this, both prior to joining and regularly on board.

Qualification/Work Experience

  • Excellent communication and management skills.

  • Bachelor’s degree in theatrical management (production, stage or technical) or 3 years of in field experience required.

  • Operational knowledge of technical equipment inclusive of rigging, sound, lighting, video and automation.

  • Cruise Line or Touring Experience suggested, but not required.

  • Ability to remain positive and push thru in stressful situations, while still accomplishing daily work.

  • Ability to communicate with multiple departments onboard, understanding how the entertainment team, folds into the bigger operation.

  • Ability to work up to 7 days per week for periods of up to 8-months at a time.

  • Comfortable living and working in close quarters with co-workers from varied backgrounds.

  • Ability to stand for long periods, work at height as required, and consistently lift 75 pounds in fulfillment of responsibilities.

  • Ability to learn and abide by all onboard safety regulations as outlined in ship's Safety Management System.

  • Ability to remain positive in stressful situations working under tight deadlines.

  • The ability to analyze and evaluate the need for technical support for various events and performances.

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