Assistant Head Electrician, Opera House

About The Kennedy Center

"I am certain that after the dust of centuries has passed over our cities, we, too, will be remembered not for victories or defeats in battle or in politics, but for our contribution to the human spirit." - President John F. Kennedy

The Kennedy Center is the nation's cultural center and living memorial to President John F. Kennedy. Located on the banks of the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., the Center presents performances across all genres, and is also home to artistic affiliates Washington National Opera and National Symphony Orchestra.

At the Kennedy Center, we strive to foster belonging and empowerment at work. We are able to advance our mission because of our committed and passionate employees. We are fortunate to be able to leverage their diverse perspectives, life experiences and skills to inform how our workplace can be a safe, transparent, and replenishing community. The Kennedy Center is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant based on race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition, or any other basis protected by law.

Mission Statement: As the nation's performing arts center, and a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy, we are a leader for the arts across America and around the world, reaching and connecting with artists, inspiring and educating communities. We welcome all to create, experience, learn about, and engage with the arts.

Job Description

Pay: $62.40/hour as determined by the CBA.

The Kennedy Center Production Operations Department seeks a technician with a thorough working knowledge in all areas of technical theatrical production. The position is Assistant Head of the Electrics Department, Opera House. Applicant must have a minimum of five years' experience as a theatrical electrician with a solid working knowledge in all facets of mounting productions with advanced knowledge in layout and installation theatrical lighting plots and stage electrics for theatrical presentations. Basic computer skills enabling clear communications along with comprehensive skills in Lightwright software for preparing paperwork for productions are a must. Applicant must also be a competent programmer on ETC "Eos" based family of lighting consoles. Applicant must have working knowledge of modern stage technology and procedures. Applicant must be familiar with the safe working procedures of a stage and its related tools and equipment as well as safe working procedures in a production environment. This position is one of the "staff" recognized positions in the Opera House as defined in the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) between The Kennedy Center and I.A.T.S.E. local #22. This position is a full time, hourly position with benefits, vacation pay, and sick leave.

Key Responsibilities

• As the Assistant Head of the JFKC Opera House Electrics Department, individual will work as a team member of the minimum basic crew as well as the Assistant Head of the Electric Department, loading in, setting up, rehearsing, lighting programming, running performances, taking down and loading out productions. Individual will need to act as an over all leader to any over-hire employee's referred to work in the Opera House by I.A.T.S.E. local #22. Assistant Head Electrician will work with Kennedy Center Management, as well as visiting "Road Crews" to safely and efficiently plan and schedule pertinent aspects to mount productions presented or visiting the Kennedy Center Opera House. The Assistant Head Electrician will perform maintenance on theatrical systems and equipment that pertain to the electrical systems in the Opera House. Technician will perform other work as assigned and defined in the CBA.
• Other duties as assigned.

Key Qualifications

• A minimum of 5 years' professional experience in Technical Theater.
• Bachelor's degree in technical theatre; advanced degree preferred.
• The applicant must possess excellent skill levels in set up and operation of theatrical equipment enabling smooth running performances. Applicant must be able to work well with others, and be able to prioritize in a high pressure environment. Applicant must have experience working with union crews.
• Flexibility, the ability to work well under pressure, and the ability to prioritize in a multi-task environment are required. Equally important is the ability to translate the financial concerns of the Kennedy Center while ensuring the successful maintaining and acquisition of theatrical equipment.

Additional Information

• Frequent lifting and moving of heavy yet fragile equipment. Head Electrician must be able to work odd hours, including evenings, nights, weekends, and frequent work beyond 40 hours per week. Must be able to spend 10 hours a day standing and walking.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to communicate in person, on wireless communication systems and on the telephone. The employee is frequently required to use hands and fingers to handle, or feel in order to operate computer controlled theatrical equipment, climbing ladders, use of hand tools, power tools, and other essential tasks required in stagecraft. The employee is frequently required to sit, stand, walk, bend, stoop, crouch, and reach with hands and arms. This position frequently lifts carries, or otherwise moves and positions objects weighing up to and over 50 pounds.
• The sound and light level in the work environment varies widely from high to low intensity.
• Loud noises include power tools, sound reinforcement, equipment testing, as well as large orchestras, and loud musical groups.
• Working on elevated platforms, in aerial lifts, and in lighting positions in high places, will be required.