Careers & Casting

SUMMARY
A staff carpenter is responsible working with the Technical Director and Carpentry Supervisor in technical engineering, research and construction required for the execution of the scenic design to build and install scenic elements and effects for all Geva plays. Also responsible for managing and leading overhire employees and maintaining Geva’s core values of artistic courage, sustainability, excellence, boundless hospitality, empathy, and anti-racism and inclusion.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITY

Scenic Construction & Load-In/Strike

• Interpret designs and working drawings. Construct scenery and effects as specified by TD and Supervisor to realize the vision of the designer and director for each production or event.
• Construct prototypes as necessary and, in conjunction with the TD and Supervisor, determine the most efficient and economical way of building scenic elements.
• Monitor safety procedures and safe operation of shop and stage equipment.
• Suggest construction methods and material choices when appropriate.
• Uninstall scenery at load-out and Install scenery at load-in as directed, including rigging installations
• Execute notes as directed during technical rehearsals and performances
• Collaborate with other departments as directed to facilitate the integration of other production elements.
• Potentially attend Technical Notes Sessions or Production Meetings after technical rehearsals as requested by TD or PM.
• Oversee and work alongside overhire employees on the construction or load-in process

Shop Maintenance & Equipment

• Work with the Technical Director, Supervisor, and other scenic staff to maintain an organized inventory of materials and a safe working environment for the shop staff so they may work safely and efficiently.
• Evaluate and see to the repair of equipment as requested. Coordinate with the Technical Director and Supervisor to determine the appropriate means for repairs.
• Clean work spaces on a daily basis.
• Research, evaluate, and purchase tools, supplies, and equipment as directed by TD or Supervisor

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

• Knowledge of basic scenic construction techniques to build scenery in an appropriate manner.
• Knowledge of basic rigging in order to rig safely.
• Knowledge of wide variety of materials to offer greater flexibility in executing designs.
• Knowledge of safety procedures to maintain a safe working environment.
• Skill in interpreting design and working technical drawings to reproduce designs accurately.
• Skill in woodworking to construct accurate wood scenic elements, especially in using tools such as a mitre saw, table saw, shaper, router, planer, and wood lathe
• Skill in laying out drawings in full scale to construct scenery.
• Skill in solving problems creatively.
• Skill in effective communication to ask informed questions and relate information to others.
• Ability to lead and/or supervise temporary overhire carpenters to get work done efficiently and safely.
• Ability to work flexibly to respond to design changes and to improve productivity

Desired

• Skill in metalworking to construct durable metal scenic elements, especially in MIG and TIG welding
• Demonstrated skills in repairing standard shop equipment including stationary tools, welders, CNC router, power handheld and other tools.
• Knowledge of rigging, hydraulics, pneumatics, and theatrical automation to use in technical designs.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
– Ability to crouch, twist, turn, bend, stoop, climb stairs and ladders, work at heights, stand and sit for extended periods of time, reach above, below and at neck level, have full range of neck motion, see near and far with good depth perception, and work indoors and outdoors.
– Ability to lift and carry 60 lbs.

The above statements are not intended to encompass all functions and qualifications of the position but are intended to provide a general framework of the requirements of the position. Employee may be required to perform other functions not specifically addressed in this job description.

ABOUT GEVA
Geva Theatre is dedicated to creating and producing singular theatre productions and programs that serve the Rochester region and beyond, by illuminating the fullness of our many human experiences. As Rochester’s flagship professional theatre, Geva is one of the most attended regional theatres in New York State. Geva operates two venues – the 511-seat Elaine P. Wilson Stage and the 180-seat Ron & Donna Fielding Stage.

Critical to Geva Theatre’s core values is an institutional culture of dignity, trust, and mutual respect. We are committed to upholding the principles of inclusion, diversity, equity, accessibility, and anti-racism in recruitment of staff in all departments. To that end, for all employment opportunities, we actively encourage applications from persons of color, women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, individuals with disabilities and all other identities and legally protected classes. Geva Theatre is an equal opportunity employer. All are welcome here.