Deck Lead

29-Oct-2024

Deck Lead

American Repertory Theater

67149BR

Job Summary

The American Repertory Theater (A.R.T.) at Harvard University is a leading force in the American theater, producing groundbreaking work in Cambridge and beyond. A.R.T. produces a mainstage subscription season, as well as additional artistic projects, which expand the boundaries of theater by transforming the ways in which work is developed, programmed, produced, and contextualized, always including the audience as a partner. A.R.T. produces a broad range of theatrical entertainment including new works, pre-Broadway premieres, co-productions and transfers, and international tours.

Through groundbreaking and transformational theatrical experiences, A.R.T. believes that theater has the power to heal and imagine collective pathways forward. A.R.T. affirms and celebrates a multitude of perspectives and experiences that reflect the diversity of our country and world, and is dedicated to making a welcoming and accessible space for people of any identity, background, or ability.

As the professional theater on the campus of Harvard University, A.R.T. is committed to the collaborative and creative exchange among a wide range of academic departments, institutions, students, and faculty members. A.R.T. plays a central role in Harvard’s undergraduate Theater, Dance & Media concentration and also mentors students in the Harvard Radcliffe Dramatic Club at the Loeb Drama Center.

The A.R.T. centers anti-racism as a core value and is committed to developing and producing work and creating environments that embrace the full breadth and beauty of our shared humanity. The A.R.T. unequivocally opposes any attempts to divide its community through acts of discrimination, omission, and violence. The A.R.T. is dedicated to making a welcoming and accessible space for people of any identity, background, or ability, including but not limited to: race, ethnicity, nationality or immigration status, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, religion, age, physical/mental ability, appearance, socio-economic status, education level, and political viewpoint.

The Deck Lead position serves as a liaison between backstage crews and visiting stage management teams for the safe, accurate, and repeatable backstage operations for show running at A.R.T.  The Deck Lead is involved in the selection, scheduling, instruction, and training of crew members working backstage, and is responsible for day-to-day coordination and communication with Stage Management and other production departments during the show run process.  Outside of show running, the Deck Lead serves as a member of the crew for various, maintenance, inspection, pre-rig, load-in, and load out calls throughout the year with a focus on leadership and coordination of individuals working in the Stage Operations department.  The Deck Lead works closely with the Stage Operations Manager and Assistant Stage Operations Manager on effective planning and scheduling/coordination for shows, maintenance projects, and capital campaigns in the near and far future. 
 

Position Description

Works with Stage Management and other production departments for safe, accurate, and repeatable backstage processes

• Serves as point person for backstage operations with Stage Management teams focusing on crew assignments, backstage traffic, storage, accuracy, and safety.
• Takes cues as assigned by Stage Management and troubleshoots technical issues in real-time during technical rehearsals, understudy rehearsals, and performances. 
• Records and categorizes backstage traffic, storage, and scenic shifts for swing crew training and archiving.
• Produces and distributes daily Deck Reports for previews and performances to all production departments.
• Along with Stage Operations Manager or Assistant Stage Operations Manager, attends post-technical rehearsal and post-preview meetings with other production departments and artistic departments to disseminate applicable information to/from the crew and Stage Management.   

Along with Stage Operations Manager, leads, communicates, and schedules crew members in the Stage Operation department for load-ins, load-outs, show running, and day-to-day operations.

• Assists and advises on selection, scheduling, training, and communication of/with crew members for pre-rig, load-ins, load-outs, maintenance, and show running calls.
• Produces weekly schedules for show running crews and swing crew members and communicates changes and updates quickly and effectively. 
• Helps onboard new crew members with operations, policies/procedures, and orientation of ART facilities. 
• Along with Stage Operations Manager and Assistant Stage Operations manager, develops and collaborates on design of rigging systems and backstage support spaces for safe, accurate, and repeatable processes. 

Works with Stage Operations Manager and Assistant Stage Operations Manager on maintenance, inspection, restocking of show supplies and other Stage Operations materials and housekeeping of backstage areas. 

• Works as a crew member for stage maintenance, inspections, pre-rig, load-in, load-out, and changeovers.
• Along with Stage Operations Manager and Assistant Stage Operations Manager, supervises and instructs other crew members for various tasks throughout the production process.
• Along with Assistant Stage Operations Manager, monitors and replenishes stock of rigging materials, show running supplies, and backstage first-aid kits. 
• Works with the entire run crew and stage management to make sure the theater and all auxiliary spaces (Green Room, Trap Room, halls and stairwells, etc.) are tidy, safe, and well-kept.

Basic Qualifications

Candidates MUST meet the following basic qualifications to be considered for this role:

• Experience working backstage in live entertainment or events.
• Experience working with or supervising of undergraduate students.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

If you believe this is a role is one that you will be excited to work in, even if you do not have the following we encourage you to apply

• Experience or knowledge of working policies and procedures of the Actor’s Equity Association.
• Familiarity with stage rigging techniques and/or other technical theater production departments.
• Ability to swing between multiple tracks on a show-by-show basis, to suit the needs of the production.
• Ability to read and understand theatrical ground plans, rigging plots, and backstage plots.
• Prior experience or willingness to learn computer-aided drafting programs such as AutoCAD or Vectorworks.
• Proficient in using computers and knowledge of basic computer programs (email, word processing, etc. Microsoft Office environment a plus.).
• Ability to remain centered and respectful during sensitive situations
• Well-organized and exceptional attention to detail.
• Ability to lead by example and carry forward the values of the production department.
• Willingness to contribute to an environment of continued learning.
• Experience with other live entertainment or event disciplines such as Wardrobe, Props, Electrics, Sound, Stage Management, Projections/Video, or House Management.
• Ability to multi-task and work effectively while managing multiple deadlines and priorities.
• Demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and anti-racism in practice
• Support education and job development training. This can include, but is not limited to teaching workshops, leading tours, discussing behind-the-scenes activities, or taking on interns or apprentices.
• Maintain and promote a safe work environment by following and enforcing all safety regulations, providing safety equipment, training employees on safe practices, reporting incidents, managing record keeping, staying up to date on safety issues and advising on safety-related practices.  
• With advanced notice, ability to work flexible hours/days, including evenings and weekends, reflective of the dynamic schedule of the theater.
• Willingness and ability to work 40 hours per week. Ability to work overtime as needed.

Certificates and Licenses

Current Driver’s License or ability to obtain license upon employment

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, type, and work at a computer for extended periods of time.
• Ability to sit or stand for hours at a time.
• Ability to work in a shop environment including concrete floors, bright lights, dust, loud noises, etc.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds with assistance and be able to stoop, lift, bend, and work in low light conditions.
• Ability to work at heights in ladders, MEWPs, and the 60’ steel grid
• Ability to maintain a high degree of focus and concentration in a fast-paced environment. Ability to work in limited space.

Working Conditions

This position requires frequent evening and weekend hours and the ability to work overtime as needed.
The A.R.T. is located in a multistory building without an elevator, with work taking place on all levels.
 

Additional Information

This position is deemed critical during the production and technical rehearsal period.
This position is subject to periodic unpaid furloughs based on the production calendar.
Overtime Required: Yes
This position has a 3-month orientation and review period. 
The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up to date on CDC-recommended vaccines. 

Work Format Details

This position is based primarily on-campus, in Massachusetts. This may include in-person during emergency situations (if applicable). Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Benefits

We invite you to visit Harvard's Total Rewards website (https://hr.harvard.edu/totalrewards) to learn more about our outstanding benefits package, which may include:

• Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff), 12 accrued sick days per year, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January, 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire), and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary care givers.
• Health and Welfare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs, along with voluntary benefits. Most coverage begins as of your start date.
• Work/Life and Wellness: Child and elder/adult care resources including on campus childcare centers, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs related to stress management, nutrition, meditation, and more.
• Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation, based on age and earnings with full vesting after 3 years of service.
• Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Program that provides 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses taken at other accredited institutions.
• Professional Development: Programs and classes at little or no cost, including through the Harvard Center for Workplace Development and LinkedIn Learning.
• Commuting and Transportation: Various commuter options handled through the Parking Office, including discounted parking, half-priced public transportation passes and pre-tax transit passes, biking benefits, and more.
• Harvard Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks: Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, credit union, and more, as well as discounts to various types of services (legal, financial, etc.) and cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.

Job Function

Arts

Department Office Location

USA - MA - Cambridge

Job Code

402007 A.R.T. Technician-Specialist

Work Format

On-Site

Sub-Unit

------------

Salary Grade

053

Department

Production/ART

Union

55 - Hvd Union Cler & Tech Workers

Time Status

Full-time

Pre-Employment Screening

Identity

Schedule

Full time. Monday through Friday 8 am-5 pm Irregular, varies based on the production schedule and needs of the production. 40 hours per week,. 

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging

Harvard University views equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a campus culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible pool of talent to unify excellence and diversity while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values.

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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