Theatre Practitioner — Assistant Head, Sound
Banff Centre is looking for a theatre practitioner — assistant head of sound to provide the operational support required for the delivery of Banff Centre programs and activities. The theatre practitioner — assistant head of sound supports the aims and objectives of the performing arts department by taking responsibility for the safe, efficient, and precise production requirements of all assigned events, activities and programs. The theatre practitioner — assistant head of sound will also assist their direct supervisor in supporting specific production training programs when applicable.
The assistant head of sound 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.
Specific Accountabilities
Under the leadership of the Technical Director of Performing Arts and working with the Head of Sound, some of the key responsibilities include:
- Assisting the Head of Sound, and/or be solely responsible for the planning, setup, running and strike of all elements related to sound reinforcement and other department related duties in the Performing Arts department.
- Execute live sound requirements for a variety of performances, presentations and programs and ensure that artistic needs meet a professional standard of excellence.
- Review the audio requirements for each production and generate or adjust plans, paperwork and working drawings as necessary in consultation with the sound designer, composer, director, the Head of Sound and technical director as applicable.
- Assist in the operation and maintenance of all Performing Arts sound equipment, the sound shop and related adjacent areas.
- Act as a strong communication link with the head of sound, technical director, assistant technical director, senior technical producer, other performing arts and Banff Centre staff, practicums, the sound designer, composer, director, choreographer, stage management, performers, and all other relevant persons to best bring together the elements of technical production, artistic requirements and training related needs.
- Assist with determining the best methods of audio reinforcement, and other department related duties and presentation.
- Complete all necessary paperwork including written reports, patch lists, signal flow diagrams and other paperwork to operate and archive performances and programs, as well as for departmental documentation.
- Apply appropriate theatre and live sound techniques and methods to provide the quality, efficiency and support level required by Banff Centre standards of excellence.
- Following the leadership of the Head of Sound, supervise, instruct and facilitate the mentoring of practicums in the theories and practice of audio reinforcement and presentation including but not limited to terms and formulas, codes, wire, equipment, console operation and other hardware, software, soldering, maintenance, mixing, sound editing, sound design and other training activities.
- Assist the Head of Sound with the administration of the department, including supervision of assigned crews, with attention to safety procedures and within the supplied frameworks of budget, staffing, equipment, time and space.
- Assist the Head of Sound and Technical Director in department plans and actively participate in all the planning stages of each production.
- Communicate or negotiate effectively in formal group situations to influence or motivate employees, practicums, resident guests, clients, artists, participants, or groups of people who may have different goals.
- Gather information and quotes and put forward recommendations for the acquisition of tools, hardware, software and capital equipment.
- Remain knowledgeable with industry best practices, new technologies and industry trends to advise and include the application of up-to-date techniques, software and equipment.
- Keep up to date and adhere to all current Health and Safety policies.
- Assist in developing accurate costings for productions and programs.
- Execute projection requirements for a variety of presentations and programs when required, and ensure that artistic needs meet a professional standard of excellence.
Qualification and Educational Requirements:
- A minimum of 8 years’ experience in a Theatre or Performing Arts production environment.
- A bachelor’s degree, diploma or related certificate in Technical Theatre, or equivalent experience.
- Able to mix a wide variety of acts and musical styles and experience mixing musical theatre shows with wireless mics.
- RF wireless coordination experience.
- Experience making and fitting wireless mics for performers.
- Software competence: QLab (audio + video), ProTools, Reaper, Logic, Smaart (con-figuring, multi mic measurement, calibration curves), SIM, Office.
- Console proficiency: Digico; Yamaha: CL, DM; Midas.
- Able to lead audio crews.
- Proficiency in Mac (OSX 10, 11, 12, 13), windows (7, 10, 11, 365)‚ iOS.
- Experience with Meyer MAPP XT and 3D.
- Experience with Communication infrastructure systems like ClearComm.
- Skills in drafting in Vectorworks is an asset.
- Experience with a variety of types of live performance including music, dance, opera, theatre and musical theatre.
- Experience working in a variety of venues such as proscenium theatres, concert halls, black box theatres, found spaces and outdoors.
- Proficient in the use of computers, multi-media tools and able to operate specialized equipment.
- Working knowledge of the theories and practices that support this discipline.
- Experience working in a fast-paced environment, with an ability to think and act quickly and responsibly with a broad range of artists, participants and faculty.
- Able to maintain excellent customer satisfaction and a positive demeanour while working with a large volume of artists, staff, practicums and the general public who may at times have different goals and timelines.
- Able to work independently but also open to feedback and collaboration.
- Flexible and adaptable to changing priorities and tasks.
- Strong team player.
- Maintain a positive attitude, especially while working under pressure.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Excellent organizational skills with the ability to work on multiple projects with tight deadlines.
Employment Terms & Benefits:
- In accordance with CUPE 4318, this is a unionized, salaried support staff position, subject to a 6 month probation period.
- This position pays $68,000 annually (or $32.69 per hour) working 40 hours per week.
- 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 housing options
- Professional development
- Staff cafeteria and restaurant discounts
- Onsite fitness facility at a discounted rate — first month free for new staff!
- Free or reduced admission to select Banff Centre performance and events
Application Process
We are accepting applications for the theatre practitioner — assistant head of sound position until 11:59pm MT on May 14, 2023.
Candidates offered a position with Banff Centre, in this capacity, will be required to obtain a criminal record check with Vulnerable Sector verification through the local RCMP detachment, verifying a clear record.
Visa Requirements: Banff Centre is unable to assist candidates in obtaining Canadian work authorization. Candidates must be legally eligible to work in Canada.
