Head Stage Carpenter

We acknowledge, with deep respect and gratitude, our home on the side of Sacred Buffalo Guardian Mountain. In the spirit of respect and truth, we honour and acknowledge the Banff area, known as “Minhrpa” (translated in Stoney Nakoda as “the waterfalls”) and the Treaty 7 territory and oral practices of the Îyârhe Nakoda (Stoney Nakoda) – comprised of the Bearspaw, Chiniki, and Goodstoney Nation – as well as the Tsuut’ina First Nation and the Blackfoot Confederacy comprised of the Siksika, Piikani, Kainai. We acknowledge that this territory is home to the Shuswap Nations, Ktunaxa Nations, and Metis Nation of Alberta, Region 3. We acknowledge all Nations who live, work, and play, help us steward this land, and honour and celebrate this place.

The Opportunity

Banff Centre is excited to be welcoming back artists from around the world, and to be part of a place that provides a space in the mountains for artistic and creative development. Apply now to be part of a place that provides a space in the mountains for artistic excellence and creative development. To support these artists, we are expanding our Performing Arts production team!

The Head Stage Carpenter supports the aims and objectives of Banff Centre by taking responsibility for the safe, efficient, timely and precise staging requirements of all events and activities as assigned which fall under the scope of the live performance area of Production. Programs and events include Indigenous Arts, opera, dance, music, the Banff Mountain Film and Book Festival and more.

The Head Stage Carpenter will work to achieve a high production value for all Banff Centre activities. High production value in Performing Arts at Banff Centre is equally based in process as well as traditionally defined technical quality. We are looking for someone who is energetic and committed to creating a positive work culture. The ideal candidate allows others to contribute and articulate their perspective, embraces respectful communication and selects the right tone for the situation and audience.

Roles and Responsibilities

Reporting to the Technical Director of Performing Arts, below are some key accountabilities:

• Provide efficient and reliable preparation, operation and maintenance of all stage machinery, rigging and scenery.
• Operate and maintain a counterweight fly system. Perform yearly inspections of all components in accordance with established procedures.
• Rig motors, truss, drifts, spot lines, tracks, soft goods, and other equipment as required.
• Administration of stage carpentry operations, including the supervision of assigned crews with attention to safety procedures while staying within established budget, staffing, equipment, space and time limits.
• Adhere to deadlines and apply professional theatre techniques and methods to provide the quality, efficiency, and support level consistent with industry best practices. Interpret technical documents and riders to determine the technical needs of shows within the performance spaces.
• Produce technical documents and Vectorworks drawings that detail how shows will be set-up within the performance spaces.
• Complete required show reports and distribute accordingly.
• Liaise with Lighting, Projections, Scenic, and Sound teams to become aware of all respective responsibilities within shows.
• Advance productions and answer questions pertaining to technical capabilities or usage of equipment in the building and the facility itself. Able to effectively implement approved technical designs for touring shows or in-house productions.
• For scenic elements, stage carpentry projects, or other Banff Centre projects: plan, draft, assist in purchasing, and work in the shops to fabricate, paint, and finish pieces as required.
• Monitor project progress so that activity stays on budget and on time; problem solve potential challenges associated with program and show support and bring these thoughts to Management.
• Serve as stage manager as required.
• Remain current with related industry trends including the application of up-to-date techniques.

Health and Safety

• Comply with Banff Centre Health and Safety practices and all health and safety policies.
• Act as the guardian of safety for all performers, faculty, staff, and all other personnel working or engaging in activities in the performance venue spaces.
• Conduct “toolbox meetings” before each load in, load out and other necessary working days onstage.
• Conduct walk-throughs and give the safety chat for program participants, faculty and other artists or staff on their first day onstage.
• Train practicums or junior staff in the correct and safe operation of all performing arts staging, rigging and shops equipment as required.
• Collaborate on and implement safety procedures and policies for the Theatre and Music buildings.
• Advise and collaborate with Management on a regular basis regarding the above.

General Assistance

• Manage departmental administration tasks including but not limited to: placing purchase and payment requests, purchase orders, general receiving, and processing invoices.
• Drive the Production truck and other Banff Centre vehicles in compliance with Banff Centre policies.
• When the practicum program is active: assist Management in the planning and management of practicum programs so that training is in alignment with Banff Centre objectives. Ensures that the participant’s training objectives are met.

Qualifications and Educational Requirements

• Completion of a post-secondary degree, diploma, or certificate in technical theatre, or equivalent professional experience.
• At least five years of recognized professional experience working in a professional theatre fly house, including operation of a manual counterweight rigging system, for music, theatre, drama, opera or dance performances.
• Experience working in a variety of other venues such as concert halls, black box theatres and outdoor spaces is an asset.
• Experience leading and motivating crews.
• Demonstrated understanding of current OH&S standards and regulations.
• Solid problem solving, decision making including the ability to research and present options.
• Effective written and verbal communication, as well as proven organisational skills.
• Ability to balance multiple, large projects and day-to-day activities successfully.
• Strong leadership, interpersonal, communication and listening skills.
• Self-motivated.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office software including Outlook, Word and Excel.
• Knowledge in Vectorworks.
• Experience with outdoor stages is an asset.

Special Requirements

• Due to the nature of the job, this position requires the candidate to be available to work a flexible, irregular schedule, and weekends.

Employment Terms and Benefits

• In accordance with CUPE 4318, this is a unionized, salaried support staff position, subject to a 6-month probation period, working 40 hours per week.
• The salary for this position is between $34.00 - $36.53 per hour (or $70,720 - $75,982 annually), depending on experience.
• The successful candidate will have access to a range of benefits through Alberta Blue Cross and will be eligible to participate in our defined benefit pension plan.
• Benefits of working at Banff Centre are:
• Staff cafeteria and restaurant discounts.
• Onsite fitness facility at a discounted rate – first month free for new staff!

Application Process

• We are accepting applications for the Head Stage Carpenter position until a suitable candidate has been found.
• Candidates offered a position with Banff Centre, in this capacity, will be required to obtain a criminal record check verifying a clear record before a final job offer can be finalized.
• Visa Requirements: Banff Centre is unable to assist candidates in obtaining Canadian work authorization. Candidates must be legally eligible to work in Canada.

About the company

Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity, formerly known as The Banff Centre, located in Banff, Alberta, was established in 1933 as the Banff School of Drama.