SMU Overhire Production Electrician
About the Position:
Meadows School of the Arts at Southern Methodist University seeks skilled and dependable Electricians to support theatrical and operatic productions on an as-needed basis. This role is an on-campus, in-person, temporary overhire position supporting productions within the Theatre, Dance, and Opera programs of the Meadows School of the Arts.
The Overhire Production Electrician assists the Stage Lighting Supervisor and production staff with the installation, operation, maintenance, and strike of theatrical lighting systems for productions and special events. Typical work calls are Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with occasional evening and weekend calls as production schedules require. Compensation is commensurate with experience.
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Essential Functions:
- Assist with lighting hang, focus, maintenance, and strike calls.
- Hang, cable, circuit, address, and remove conventional, LED, and automated lighting fixtures under the direction of the Stage Lighting Supervisor.
- Assist with basic troubleshooting, cleaning, repairs, lamp replacement, and preventative maintenance of lighting equipment.
- Move, load, unload, organize, and transport lighting equipment, road cases, ladders, personnel lifts, and other production equipment.
- Safely operate ladders, Genie lifts, and other production equipment in accordance with established safety practices.
- Read and follow basic lighting paperwork and production documentation.
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment in lighting storage areas, catwalks, electrics, and performance spaces.
- Support technical rehearsals, performances, production changeovers, strikes, and special events as assigned.
- Perform other production-related duties as assigned.
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Qualifications:
Education and Experience
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
- Previous experience in theatre, live events, concerts, or related production work is preferred but not required.
- Applicants with experience in construction, electrical work, warehouse operations, rigging, or other hands-on technical fields are encouraged to apply.
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Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
The successful candidate should have:
- A willingness to learn and follow established safety procedures.
- The ability to work well as part of a team.
- Basic mechanical aptitude and comfort using hand tools.
- The ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
- Dependability, punctuality, and a strong work ethic.
- Comfortable working at heights, including on ladders, personnel lifts, catwalks, and a tension grid approximately 60 feet above the stage floor.
- Comfortable working around theatrical electrical equipment while following established electrical safety procedures.
- The ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced production environment and adapt to changing production priorities.
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Physical and Environmental Demands:
The successful candidate must be able to:
- Lift and carry equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Push and pull loaded road cases and other production equipment.
- Stand, walk, bend, kneel, climb, crawl, reach overhead, and work in confined spaces for extended periods.
- Work from ladders, personnel lifts, catwalks, and elevated work platforms.
- Work occasional evenings and weekends during production periods as required.
SMU is committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming community and encourages applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences.
To apply, please submit a resume and brief summary of relevant production experience. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis and retained for future production staffing needs.
