Assistant Head of Rigging - OVO

This full‑time, internationally touring role supports the rigging operations of a Cirque du Soleil touring show. The Assistant Head of Department, Rigging reports to the Production Manager and works under the Head of Department, Rigging, ensuring safe installation, operation, and maintenance of all rigging systems while upholding artistic integrity and the highest safety standards. Fluency in English is required.

Responsibilities

• Support the Head of Department in managing the department during rehearsals, performances, training sessions, load‑ins, load‑outs, and city transfers.
• Supervise, train, and support rigging technicians, local crew, and temporary staff; assist with onboarding and documentation.
• Act as interim Head of Department when required.
• Assist with scheduling, maintenance planning, and administrative follow‑up.
• Operate rigging systems during rehearsals, performances, and artist training sessions; cover show tracks as required.
• Ensure rigging systems function safely and maintain artistic integrity in collaboration with the Artistic and Design teams.
• Inspect, maintain, and repair rigging systems, including climbing gear, pulley systems, hoists, counterweight systems, and motorized equipment.
• Participate in preventive maintenance programs and ensure inspections are documented accurately.
• Identify equipment defects or breakages and ensure timely repairs or replacements.
• Respond quickly to technical issues or emergencies during live performances.
• Maintain up‑to‑date documentation including cue sheets, safety logs, inspection reports, inventories, and customs documentation.
• Assist with ordering, tracking, and maintaining rigging supplies and equipment.
• Participate in load‑in, set‑up, strike, and load‑out of rigging and other technical systems.
• Provide expertise and enforce safety standards for all work at height and climbing activities.
• Collaborate with Show Support, designers, and the Technical Director on equipment upgrades, special projects, and integration of new show elements.
• Support contingency planning to ensure uninterrupted operations in the event of equipment or system failures.
• Ensure compliance with Cirque du Soleil protocols, OSHA, and local safety regulations.
• Promote safe working practices in all rigging operations and enforce compliance among crew and local staff.
• Participate in Health & Safety trainings, emergency procedures, and promote Cirque du Soleil’s safety culture.
• Respond appropriately to on‑site injuries or emergencies, documenting incidents in line with safety protocols.
• Foster a collaborative, respectful, and safe working environment aligned with Cirque du Soleil’s values.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Availability to tour internationally full‑time and work in foreign countries.
• College diploma in live entertainment, theatre production, or equivalent professional experience.
• Minimum 3 years of professional experience as a rigger on large‑scale productions; aerial/human rigging experience strongly preferred.
• Touring experience in a live entertainment environment is an asset.
• Solid technical knowledge of rigging equipment, systems, and practices, including climbing gear, pulley systems, hoists, and counterweight systems.
• General knowledge of structural loads, forces, automation interfaces, and motor control systems.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills in rigging and mechanical systems.
• Ability to work confidently at height; fall protection or rope access training is an asset.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite; knowledge of AutoCAD or related software is an asset.
• Excellent teamwork, adaptability, and communication skills.
• Fluency in English (written and spoken); additional languages are a plus.
• Ability to perform essential functions of the job including crouching, kneeling, standing, lifting, sometimes for extended periods.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.