Assistant Head of Video Projections - Touring Show
About the Role
We are seeking an Assistant Head of Department (AHOD), Video Projection, to support the video and projection operations of one of Cirque du Soleil’s internationally touring shows. This full-time role involves extensive travel across multiple countries, with English as the working language. The successful candidate will report to the Technical Director and work under the supervision of the Head of Department, Visuals, ensuring the seamless execution of projection, video, lighting, and visual effects.
Responsibilities
- Support the Head of Department in managing the team during rehearsals, performances, training sessions, set-ups, tear-downs, and city transfers.
- Supervise and train technicians, local crew, and temporary staff; assist with onboarding and documentation.
- Act as interim Head of Department when required.
- Operate and maintain video projection and lighting systems, media servers, and show control equipment during rehearsals, performances, and training sessions.
- Assist in maintaining the artistic integrity of video projection and lighting design in collaboration with the Head of Visuals, designers, and Artistic teams.
- Calibrate, align, and troubleshoot video systems, including projectors, cameras, tracking systems, and playback platforms.
- Maintain and update departmental documentation, including projection specifications, cue sheets, technical drawings, maintenance logs, inventory lists, and customs documentation.
- Assist in ordering, tracking, and maintaining video and projection equipment and supplies.
- Support special projects, including integration of new visual elements, system upgrades, and technical initiatives.
- Participate in inspections, preventive maintenance, and repairs of video and projection equipment; ensure accurate record-keeping.
- Develop and contribute to emergency and contingency procedures to ensure uninterrupted show operations.
- Participate in load-ins, set-ups, strikes, and load-outs; supervise video crew during transfers.
- Collaborate with Technical Services, designers, and the Technical Director on equipment upgrades and the integration of new technologies.
- Ensure compliance with Cirque du Soleil protocols, OSHA, and local safety regulations; enforce safe working practices among all crew and staff.
- Promote Cirque du Soleil’s safety culture by participating in Health & Safety trainings and emergency procedures.
- 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.
- Degree or diploma in live entertainment, theatre production, or equivalent professional experience.
- Minimum 3 years of professional experience in video or projection operations for large-scale productions; touring experience strongly preferred.
- Proficiency with projection systems, video servers, media playback, and control systems; experience with laser projectors and calibration essential.
- Strong knowledge of video signal types, networking, and system integration; advanced troubleshooting skills with complex control networks.
- Experience with motion graphics, interactive VFX, and camera-based tracking systems required.
- Familiarity with VYV products, GrandMA2/3, and video mapping software is an asset.
- Ability to work confidently at height; climbing experience essential.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite; knowledge of CAD software (AutoCAD, Vectorworks) is an asset.
- Excellent teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving skills with the ability to remain calm under pressure.
- Fluent in English (written and spoken); additional languages are a plus.
- Ability to perform essential physical functions, including crouching, kneeling, standing, lifting (up to 50 lbs unassisted), sometimes for extended periods. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.
Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group is committed to creating and maintaining an accessible and inclusive workplace. We are a proud ambassador of equality in employment, dedicated to eliminating discrimination based on age, skin color, origins, religion, sex, sexual orientation, and any other characteristic.