Head of Department, Special Effects, Lighting, Audio & Projections

Head of Department, Special Effects, Lighting, Audio & Projections – Mad Apple Full-Time Position We are looking for our next Head of Department (“HOD”), Special Effects, Lighting, Audio & Projections to lead the department’s team at Mad Apple, reporting to the show’s Technical Director. The main objective of this role is to lead the team through operations, maintenance and other necessary special projects. While this HOD leads multiple disciplines, it is especially important for them to have advanced knowledge with Lighting systems, networking, programming, etc.. This position will oversee the crew when installing, maintaining and operating theater power and UPS systems, the network lighting and dimming system, computer consoles, as well as conventional, automated and projection systems and equipment in a safe and consistent manner.

As this role is crucial in maintaining systems and networks for the show, they will oversee all activities for the Audio team for installation, operation, troubleshooting and repair of systems and equipment. This show has a live band and this position will ensure all communication systems are ready for smooth show operations.

The ideal candidate for this position will have a team player mindset, effective communication and will be flexible. Should be comfortable and able to critically thinking and ability to make decisions in a fast-paced environment.

In This Pivotal Role, You Will

• In collaboration with the Technical Director and Production Department Manager, manage the show’s department during performances, Artist training, rehearsals and maintenance;
• Complete various HR/administrative tasks for the department, such as, but not limited to, payroll, scheduling, onboarding, hiring, disciplinary actions, etc.;
• Work in close collaboration with the Band Leader, Band, Coaches and Act Captains;
• Champion all computer networks affecting show operations;
• Work with Technical Director and Production Department Manager on all budgets and forecasting of departmental needs, including inventory;
• Ensure all departmental-related documentation is completed accurately and in a timely manner. Work with Department Manager to set the strategy and standards for proper documentation and train team on best practices;
• Inspect and maintain equipment, stage and backstage areas;
• Learn, program and run show tracks to ensure the safe and continued operation of the show, as needed;
• Coordinate, determine and oversee support for special projects, including the research, purchasing, construction and installation of new show elements, and other projects that include departmental elements or other needs that may fall within the department’s specialty, as directed; Maintain flexible schedule for such projects;
• Ensure team has a thorough knowledge of all department’s equipment specific to the production to operate equipment safely. Work with the Production Department Manager, Technical Director and Artistic team to establish and maintain training and backup plans to ensure continuity of performance operations of the department, as necessary;
• Assist other departments when necessary for cross-departmental support; Communicate with teams when needed;
• Adhere to and promote all Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations as they pertain to the safe operation of all elements related to the show; participate in all required health and safety classes and emergency rescue procedure training;
• Contribute to a safe and positive working environment at all times by adhering to and following all Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group standards, values, policies and regulations pertaining to safety using equipment and established working methods;
• Ensure all Health and Safety training records are current and recorded properly, also assist in crew schedule to allow for training as required by the Technical Director;
• Complete all other job-related duties as assigned.

The Ideal Candidate Will Have

• At least five years of previous experience in a similar position on large scale productions;
• At least three years of previous leadership;
• Working knowledge of Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, SharePoint and AutoCAD;
• Comprehension of basic principles of:
• AC/DC electricity;
• Basic electronics;
• Computer operations, as it pertains to lighting systems.
• Proficient in operating and repairing audio gear, including LCS, audio console mixing, RF, video, and communications systems;
• Previous experience in LCS Cue Station programming;
• Electronics training and audio equipment repair skills is an asset;
• Knowledge of wireless microphone systems and automated systems;
• Demonstrated ability to manage personnel, work in a team environment and work under pressure;
• Excellent customer service skills;
• Have interpersonal skills to deal effectively with all business contacts;
• Professional appearance and demeanor;
• Ability to obtain OSHA 30 course completion card;
• Availability to work varied shifts, including weekends and holidays;
• High School Diploma and or GED required;
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the job including, but not limited to: crouching, kneeling, standing, lifting, sometimes for extended amounts of time; lifting at least 50lbs unassisted, etc.; Full list of essential functions will be sent in the offer. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions;
• Fluent in English, both written and spoken;
• Verification of the right to work in the United States for Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, as demonstrated by completion of the Form I-9 upon hire and the submission of acceptable documentation (as noted on the Form I-9) verifying one’s identity and work authorization.

As you can imagine, working with a circus can be quite different from other organizations, and at Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, we embrace these differences loudly with enthusiasm. We realize that one size fits none and invite you to come create your own specialized experience with us to see exactly what we’re talking about, firsthand. Our emotion-provoking shows are just the tip of the iceberg: laced throughout our organization, you will find creative minds who are empowered to use their voices and be themselves, their truest selves. Diversity to us means various perspectives, fresh ideas and continuous improvement of the way we do things. We won’t pretend like we have every answer, that’s why we need you! The employees here are the center of what we do, the voices behind the final product and amazing performances on stage. When you think of your ideal workplace, what comes to mind? For us, it looks (and really is) like this:

• Teamwork – we thrive with collaborative teams, regardless of titles or departments;
• Respect – when we ask someone to join our team, it’s because we trust and respect you;
• Integrity – whether you work behind-the-scenes or in the office, you’re being counted on. We are a team and integrity goes a long way here, and like we mentioned previously, trust is important;
• Authenticity – we want you to bring your full self to work, this is a place where you don’t need to fit into a box to belong; diverse perspectives foster even more creativity in the workplace. We embrace the human behind the employee number;
• Being heard – you have access to everyone in the organization, use your voice on development questions or suggestions on how to improve the experience. We value open and transparent communication, and we want you to be heard!

Come create with us and let us show you what a “circus family” feels like!

Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate against applicants or employees because of their race, creed, color, age, religion, sex, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, military status, national origin or ancestry.