The Sharon Playhouse, the historic professional nonprofit theater located in the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains, seeks an Audio Engineer (A1) for its 2026 season. This role offers the opportunity to work alongside professional artists from New York City, the tri-state area, and beyond in a collaborative summer repertory environment.
The 2026 MainStage season includes Swingtime Canteen, 42nd Street, and Come From Away, along with the Spotlight Gala, Writers+rsquo; Playground Festival, and a special reading of The Divine Sister. The YouthStage season includes Pooh+rsquo;s Parade, Matilda Jr., Big Bad, Shrek Kids, Zombie Prom, and a school partnership production of Shrek Kids with Indian Mountain School.
The Audio Engineer reports to the Technical Director, Production Managers, Sound Designer, and Sharon Playhouse full-time staff.
Responsibilities
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Lead and execute organized audio preparation, programming, and changeovers for productions and special events at the Sharon Playhouse.
Serve as soundboard operator for MainStage and YouthStage tech rehearsals and performances, as well as select special events.
Assist with sound design for The Divine Sister and Writers+rsquo; Playground.
Maintain and repair sound equipment inventory and coordinate or advise on equipment purchases and replacements.
Participate in cross-departmental production and venue support as needed to ensure smooth operations across the season.
Support and mentor Sharon Playhouse apprentices, providing guidance and instruction in audio practices.
Work patiently and collaboratively with youth performers, helping them become comfortable with microphones and live sound environments.
Maintain timely communication with the Technical Director, Production Managers, Sound Designer, and production staff.
Assist the season sound designer with end-of-season equipment load-out.
Qualifications
Candidates should demonstrate:
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Ability to work independently with strong organizational and time-management skills
A collaborative and positive attitude
Technical requirements include:
Prior experience in live audio engineering
Experience mixing live performances with microphones, speakers, and playback systems
Proficiency with digital and analog mixing consoles
Ability to troubleshoot audio issues quickly during rehearsals and performances
Familiarity with wireless microphone systems and frequency management
Experience with QLab or other sound playback software
Experience with the following equipment is preferred:
Digico S31 digital console
Digico stage boxes for wireless microphone inputs
d+b house speaker and subwoofer system
House delay speakers
Aviom headset monitor system for pit musicians
Candidates must also be able to safely lift and set up audio equipment.
Schedule + Compensation
This is a seasonal, project-based 1099 independent contractor position supporting specific productions and events throughout the Sharon Playhouse 2026 season.
The Audio Engineer will work only during scheduled rehearsal, technical rehearsal, and performance periods tied to individual productions and events, rather than on a continuous weekly schedule.
The Audio Engineer is scheduled to work for rehearsals, tech, performances, or event production support. Based on the current production calendar and expected number of scheduled weeks across the season, total compensation is estimated at approximately $10,000 for the full season.
Additional required work includes:
Sound installation support on May 4, 11, and 12
Two installation days for the Spotlight Gala (dates TBD)
These days are included as part of the seasonal project scope and compensation structure.
The overall engagement period spans approximately June 1 through October 4, though work occurs only during scheduled production periods within that timeframe.
The Sharon Playhouse is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Applications accepted here - https://sharonplayhouse.tfaforms.net/16
