Totem Pole Playhouse - 2026 Audio/LX Positions
General Information
Totem Pole Playhouse, Pennsylvania's premier professional summer theatre, is located within the breathtaking 1,200-acre Caledonia State Park between Gettysburg and Chambersburg, PA. We are currently seeking seasonal Audio and Lighting Staff to join us for our 76th Season where we offer both Equity productions and guest presentations, including "Tucked Away Treasures", as part of our summer series. The award-winning Playhouse has a stellar industry reputation, with the New York Times describing Totem Pole Playhouse as, "the Cadillac of summer theaters."
The 2026 season schedule runs from May 29th through August 30th. While there may be some flexibility with start and end dates, applicants are encouraged to be available for the entire season.
2026 Summer Series Shows:
* A Night with Janis Joplin
* Come From Away
* Oscar + Felix: A New Look at the Odd Couple
* South Pacific
* Karen Hester as "Dolly"
* Tucked Away Treasure series + Summer Camp Performances
Most shows include a 2.5-day strike/load-in and three days of technical rehearsals, creating the unique-and occasionally hectic-pace of traditional summer stock theatre. When operational, Totem Pole Playhouse maintains fully staffed private scenic and costume shops. For certain staff positions, complimentary housing is available in shared staff accommodations, each offering a private bedroom. Housing locations are conveniently situated as close as 2 miles and no further than 20 miles from the work site. Limited access to company vehicles is also provided, as needed. All positions include weekly salaries. Depending on the role and responsibilities, some positions meet the threshold for overtime-exempt status, while others are eligible for overtime compensation in compliance with applicable PA labor laws.
As part of our ongoing growth, Totem Pole Playhouse is implementing several new operational approaches this season. While these adjustments are being made thoughtfully and with intention, some processes may evolve as the season progresses. We are seeking team members who are adaptable, solution-oriented, and excited to collaborate in an environment that values flexibility, communication, and creative problem-solving in the face of occasional unknowns.
Seasonal Agreement Dates:
On or around May 11th, 2025 - On or around Aug 30th 2026 (Start + End dates vary by department. Arrivals occur between May 11th - 26th, and Departures are between August 2nd - 30th, 2025)
*Totem Pole Playhouse is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, creed, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status.
Assistant Electrician (E2):
The Assistant Electrician works directly with the Head Electrician on the planning, installation, programming, maintenance, and strike of lighting systems for a fast-paced 5-show season. This position requires a highly skilled, proactive electrician who is comfortable working independently, troubleshooting under pressure, and supporting a collaborative production environment. The Assistant Electrician will run the lighting console for all performances and play a critical role in executing lighting designs across multiple productions. This position maintains regular shop hours to prepare shows during rehearsals and serves as a key member of the running crew during productions. This contract runs from May 11th - Aug 2nd.
Duties include:
* Running the lighting console for all performances, ensuring accurate cue execution and smooth transitions.
* Confidently programming ETC consoles for rehearsals, tech, and performances.
* Working directly with the Head Electrician to install, maintain, and troubleshoot the lighting rig, including conventional and intelligent fixtures.
* Preparing and installing practical lighting elements, with a strong emphasis on LED tape, LED neon, power supplies, and custom wiring solutions.
* Performing soldering, cable repair, and basic electronics troubleshooting as needed throughout the season.
* Safely working on ladders, in tight spaces, and in crawl-access-only areas including FOH positions and under-stage locations.
* Assisting with load-ins, focus, changeovers, and strikes for all productions.
* Supporting lighting-related video elements when applicable, including assisting with video walls or integrated video systems.
* Conducting routine maintenance and ensuring all electrical work follows safety protocols and best practices.
* Resourcing Totem Pole Playhouse+rsquo;s "Tucked Away Treasures" and Camp Series events as needed.
* Other duties traditionally assigned to this job title in live theatrical production.
Requirements:
* Demonstrated proficiency in ETC console programming.
* Strong soldering skills and experience with hands-on electrical fabrication.
* Solid understanding of conventional and intelligent lighting fixtures, dimming, circuiting, and power distribution.
* Extensive experience working with practical lighting, particularly LED tape and LED neon.
* Comfort working at height, on ladders, lifting at least 50 lbs., and operating in confined or crawl-space environments.
* Exceptional communication skills and a proven ability to collaborate as part of a fast-moving production team.
* Self-starter mentality with strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently when needed.
* Experience with video walls and asset incorporation preferred
Weekly Salary Range: $450-$575 DEO
To Apply: Please send resume and cover letter to employment@totempoleplayhouse.org
