PLEASE NOTE: Please do not use the apply button on this webpage. To apply, please follow the attached link: https://creativealliance.org.uk/opportunities/apprentice-scenic-automation-technician/
We have an exciting opportunity for an Apprentice Scenic Automation Technician to join the National Theatre Technical & Production Team on a 24 Month Fixed Term Contract.
What is a Stage Automation Technician?
If you enjoy variety, creativity and problem solving then being a theatre technician can be the most enjoyable job in the world. A Stage Automation technician helps to bring the directors ideas to life and creates the special effects that make a show memorable. It is the job of the technician to ensure that all the scene changes and special effects happen safely and calmly using stage machinery controlled by computer software, helping the actors feel confident working in front of an audience.
There is nothing like the feeling of a live audience watching a show you are working on.
What is the National Theatre
Based on the South Bank in Waterloo, London, the National Theatre (NT), has three theatres, a bookshop, cafes and bars which are all open to the public. Behind the scenes, there are workshops where we make sets, props and costumes for the shows, spaces for actors to rehearse and offices for all the administration staff. The National Theatre Apprenticeship Programme has recently been awarded the Princess Royal Training Award for outstanding training and skills development.
Our Purpose
The National Theatre (NT) makes theatre that entertains and inspires using its creativity, expertise and unique reach. We share unforgettable stories with millions of audience members across the UK and around the world – on our own stages, on tour, in schools, on cinema screens and streaming at home.
World-leading artists make their best work at the NT with the widest possible audience and impact.
A registered charity with deeply-embedded social purpose, the NT works with hundreds of schools and communities across the UK to spark imagination and inspire creativity, and to develop skills and pathways for careers in theatre. Our key objectives as we look to the next five years are towards economic, environmental and social sustainability, upholding a culture that aims to take care of our people and the wider world.
Purpose of the Apprenticeship
Working with the Stages, Stage Engineering and Automation Departments (which are all part of the Technical Department), you will learn about and understand the role of an Automation technician within the performing arts industry whilst getting hands on experience. You will learn the practical skills necessary to work as am automation technician in a theatrical environment and will work with top industry professionals in all of the NT’s spaces.
As this is a training position, we are not looking for experience in automation, but for someone who has some entry level technical theatre experience, and the desire to specialise in automation for a career. You will need to show us that you can problem solve, can work well in a team, and will be committed to completing this apprenticeship. An interest in audio, networks or electrical systems would be useful.
This apprenticeship is designed to be the next step in developing a career as an automation technician. Although we cannot guarantee that this apprenticeship will lead to a permanent post at the NT, this is an area of specialisation where there is a skills gap in the theatre sector, and we would expect there to be good opportunities for further work in the sector on completion of the apprenticeship.
What you will do during the Apprenticeship
The apprenticeship will be split between the National Theatre and Creative Alliance.
With Creative Alliance you will:
* Study a Level 3 Stage Automation Technician, Creative Venue Pathway
* You will also be required to produce a portfolio as part of your course, which the NT will support you with.
* You can view the details of the apprenticeship here Scenic Automation Standard
* Training will be delivered online and in-person at the NT and other local venues
* It may be possible to support you in passing functional skills in English or Maths if you need to take one of them, however Creative Alliance will discuss your existing level with you before any interview offer is made
At the NT you will:
* You will work in all areas where the Technical Department work, supervised and supported by members of the Technical Department.
* You will be working with Stages, Stage Engineering & Automation.
* You will collect evidence of the work you do and make a portfolio showing how you have used your skills in the workplace.
* Under the direction of NT Staff, clean, maintain and use a range of Mechanical lifting and rigging equipment
* Experience the setup, testing, commissioning and fault finding of Automation equipment and systems
* Work backstage on shows and events when required, installing and operating technical equipment. This will sometimes involve evening and weekend work.
* Work to agreed deadlines.
* Learn how to work at height or in small spaces safely. (Sometimes in low-light levels)
* Participate in safety checks, and weekly planning meetings.
* Maintain high standards of operations and good housekeeping at all times
* Always work safely, following the NT’s Health and Safety policy
* Participate in other training as necessary and appropriate, including visiting other workplaces on placement.
* Carry out any other reasonable duties as requested by the National Theatre’s representatives.
At all times you will be expected to:
* Take responsibility for being on time and always working safely and considerately.
* Take responsibility for completing your college work and making sure your manager knows when a college assessor is visiting.
* Behave professionally, including keeping workspaces neat and tidy.
* To work at height and sometimes in small spaces, training will be given to you before you do this.
* You will sometimes be asked to work evenings and weekends, and will be given time off in the week to make up for it (this is called Time Off in Lieu - TOIL)
This is a Level 3 apprenticeship, therefore applicants must be suitable for study at that level and NOT hold a theatre based degree, or a post graduate qualification, or have professional experience of working backstage in a theatre beyond entry level positions. Applicants with STEM based degrees looking to transfer to the creative sector would be considered.
Download the Job Description here.
**To apply, please follow:
https://creativealliance.org.uk/opportunities/apprentice-scenic-automation-technician/
If you require assistance with applying or would like to apply using a different format, please contact info@creativealliance.org.u.k
Closing date: Monday 3rd February 2025 at 12 noon
Further queries: email recruitment@nationaltheatre.org.uk