Head of Workshop

• Bring your skills and shine in this varied role
• Enjoy working along-side some of the finest performing artists
• Be part of a collaborative work environment where everyone belongs

Queensland Theatre has more than 50 years of proud history creating an extensive repertoire of Australian, classic, contemporary, international and theatrical works.  At the heart of our mission is a team that is driven by a passion for the work we do and their positive spirit.

We seek an experienced tradesperson with experience in scenic construction and managing a team, to join our dedicated Technical and Production team as Head of Workshop, to lead the Workshop team, a team that is responsible for the construction and maintenance of theatrical sets and props.

This role is suited to someone who is highly motivated, is able to manage the requirements of a diverse operational environment and who enjoys being involved in theatre making and the arts.

Role snapshot

The Head of Workshop is a member of the Technical and Production team that facilitates and coordinates all production, technical and design (stage, costume, lighting sound, AV etc) elements necessary for staging theatrical performances.

The Head of Workshop is expected to:

• ensure the effective and efficient operation of the Workshop team in the construction, maintenance and mounting of theatrical sets and props;
• ensure Workshop activities are delivered on time and within budget parameters;
• engage with production creative teams in the interpretation of set designs and provide support throughout the life of each production;
• lead the Workshop team and ensure staff are adequately trained; and
• ensure safe work practises / conditions are always adhered to, in line with relevant codes and legislation.

The role requires a qualification in General Construction (Carpentry Framework/Formwork/Finishing/Metalwork), an understanding of scenery construction, materials, methods, and techniques, attention to detail, an ability to apply problem-solving skills, and the ability to work to critical timelines and parameters. 

This is a full-time position. Irom time to time, given the nature of the position and production schedules, some additional hours of work including at performances/season productions and in evenings, may be required to fulfil the requirements of the role.  

Who we are looking for – selection criteria

To be successful in this role, you will have the following:-

• Extensive experience managing a scenic workshop, including at least five years’ experience in:
• the mounting/staging of theatrical productions and associated coordination elements, including production bump in, technical rehearsals, maintenance, and bump out;
• comprehensive understanding of scenery construction, materials, methods, and techniques
• preparing plans and integrating resources for productions, events and activities within defined project parameters and timelines; and
• rostering and supervising personnel, as required.
• Qualification in General Construction (Carpentry-Framework/Formwork/Finishing/Metalwork) with a detailed knowledge of workshop tools / machinery and maintenance requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to manage teams and lead people to achieve results.
• Strong organisational and project management skills with the ability to forward plan and manage competing priorities and deadlines while maintaining a flexible approach.
• Demonstrated problem solving and analytical skills including creative/lateral thinking and the ability to interpret technical specifications and plans and make substitutions as appropriate.
• Experience in managing, developing, and controlling, budgets and timelines for large scale theatrical productions.
• Strong communication skills (written and verbal) to engage stakeholders at all levels.
• Knowledge of and experience in managing workplace health and safety obligations and risks and implementing required actions.
• The physical capability to frequently perform the inherent requirements of the role including manual work tasks that may involve strenuous activity and repetitive actions.

Other attributes

You will also have a flexible, self-motivated approach to work with an ability to collaborate in a busy environment to achieve results, and resourcefulness to find required information.

HOW TO APPLY

If you are interested in this opportunity, please read the position description which can be found here and submit a written application which should include:-

• a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role and interest in working at Queensland Theatre;
• a resume / curriculum vitae
• a response (maximum 2 pages) to the selection criteria outlined above.

Please address application to HR Manager, Queensland Theatre, and email to employment@queenslandtheatre.com.au by Tuesday, 11 February 2025.

Please combine your application into a single PDF or Word document. 

Queensland Theatre is an employer that embraces diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, with a commitment to fostering an environment where all differences are values and respected.  We promote a culture of opportunity and encourage Indigenous Australians and people from a range of cultural and linguistic backgrounds to apply for Queensland Theatre roles.