Join to apply for the Deputy Technical and Production Manager role at Watermill Theatre.
We are looking for a Deputy Technical & Production Manager to support the efficient running of all aspects of the Production department, including leading the department in the manager’s absence.
This role ensures that all technical equipment, facilities and Health and Safety aspects of the department are delivered to the highest quality. It leads, manages and motivates the team and supervises the day-to-day running of the Watermill Theatre, delivering a welcoming and professional venue for all visiting companies, creatives, performances and events.
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full-time, 40 hours per week which will include some evenings, weekends and bank holidays. Additional hours will be required some weeks to fulfil the role.
Location: Onsite at the Watermill Theatre, Newbury, RG20 8AE
Duties and Responsibilities
Technical Operations and Production Support
* Lead or oversee the smooth execution of fit-ups, get-ins, rehearsals, performances, changeovers, and get-outs
* Act as Production Electrician or Sound on Watermill productions
* Act as Duty Technical Manager on a rota basis, ensuring seamless operation, maintenance coverage, and fulfilment of visiting company needs
* Provide technical support for Watermill Productions as required, ensuring alignment with artistic and production needs
* Advise the Technical & Production Manager on impractical technical requests and suggest feasible alternatives
* Operate and oversee all technical equipment during performances and events to ensure safe and efficient delivery
* Manage, motivate, and develop full-time, part-time, casual, and freelance technical staff in collaboration with the Technical & Production Manager
* Assist in creating departmental rotas, managing shift coverage, and communicating call times
* Positively lead and support staff, promoting a collaborative and effective workforce
* Maintain and submit timesheets, ensuring hours are tracked and managed across four-week periods
Venue and Equipment Maintenance
* Take a proactive role in fault-finding, repair, and maintenance of all technical equipment and building fixtures
* Maintain high housekeeping standards in all technical areas and ensure backstage spaces are clean, safe, and functional
* Support general building maintenance and upkeep, ensuring all technical areas are fit for purpose
* Maintain clear records of all maintenance work and communicate necessary amendments to technical specifications and venue plans
* Order technical consumables and advise on procurement of equipment as required to support technical operations
Health and Safety Compliance
* Ensure adherence to health and safety policies, licensing requirements, and safe systems of work across all activities
* Identify and address safety issues during events and productions, implementing practical solutions to maintain a safe working environment
* Collaborate with the Operations Manager and Technical & Production Manager on the implementation of safety policies and procedures
* Participate in emergency procedures alongside other staff as required
Internal and External Liaison
* Liaise with visiting companies and hirers ahead of events to gather technical requirements and ensure compliance with theatre policies
* Ensure excellent customer service is consistently delivered to clients and visitors
* Collaborate effectively with all departments and key personnel across the business to support smooth venue operations
Organisational Commitments
* Carrying out any other tasks that will be required on an ad hoc or continuing basis, commensurate with the general level of responsibility of the post
* Undertaking relevant training and development as required
* Driving change through actions and words that advocate inclusion and equality, creating a culture that recognises and celebrates diversity
* Being accountable for the safety of yourself and others, in line with our Health & Safety Policy
* Creating a positive working environment, underpinned by the organisation’s values
* Ensuring we are collecting and using data to inform decisions, demonstrate our impact and fulfil our funding conditions
* Complying with all legal requirements relating to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
* Contributing to our environmental sustainability goals
Person Specification
Essential Criteria
The successful candidate will meet the majority of these requirements.
* BTEC Level 3 Theatre Studies or equivalent
* Proven track record in all technical theatre skills including in depth experience as one of the following: Production LX / Production SND
* Management in a producing theatre or tour
* Experience of effectively managing get in/fit up and show crew
* Excellent team building and motivational skills
* Excellent communication skills, approachable and calm under pressure
Desirable Criteria
The successful candidate will meet some of these requirements.
* Trained in rigging
* Trained working at height
* In depth department specific training
Application Instructions
To apply, please send your CV and cover letter (no longer than three sides) explaining why you want to work for the Watermill Theatre and how you meet the person specification, to Jess Martin (Theatre Administrator) via admin@watermill.org.uk.
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