On-Call, Scenic Charge Artist

Position Purpose

The Scenic Charge Artist assists in the execution of set and prop designs for departmental productions. Working closely with the Set Designer, Technical Director, and student painters, this position helps maintain an organized and productive shop environment while supporting student learning and the production process.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Support the execution of scenery for department productions.
• Collaborate with Set Designer to determine best approaches to each project.
• Lead scenic art projects - Will be the on-site lead in the paint shop when the Set Designer is not present.
• Work hands-on in the paint shop, guiding students in different scenic art techniques, through the technical processes of scenic and prop artistry for all painted and sculptural elements of theatrical scenery.
• Paint responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:
  • Mixing paint to achieve desired color
  • Producing test samples
  • Using multiple techniques to achieve a variety of textures and finishes
  • Creating a purchase list for supplies
  • Help to maintain an organized paint shop.
  • Communicate with Technical Director and Set Designer for coordination of shop timing and organization.
  • Support the execution of props for department productions.
  • May include working with paint, foam, clay, fabric, and/or other scenic art materials.
  • Train Student Crew
    • Work with the Scenic Designer to assist in teaching scenic painting skills to student work crews.
    • Supervise student work crews to ensure safety while maintaining a positive and collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The items below are representative of the knowledge, skills, abilities, education, and experience required or preferred.
  • Knowledge: Advanced painting skills: paint color matching, common paint techniques (wood grain, brick, marble, lettering, etc.), surface textures.
  • Working with a variety of paint applications - different styles of brushes, sponges, sprayers, etc.
  • Other scenic art skills including working with fabric, foam, clay, and other materials.
  • An understanding of the work flow in both professional and education scenic shops.
  • An understanding of and appreciation for teaching theatre within a liberal arts context desired.
• Skills: Time management. Clear communication with both professionals and students. Intermediate proficiency in scenic painting and prop construction. Ability to paint from a provided paint elevation or reference image. Strong organizational and collaborative skills.

Education

Bachelor's degree in theatre, preferred.

Experience

4 years scenic charge artist experience and experience working with students/novice painters, required.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, as amended, the California Fair Employment & Housing Act, and all other applicable laws, SCU provides reasonable accommodations for qualified persons with disabilities. A qualified individual is a person who meets skill, experience, education, or other requirements of the position, and who can perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.

Must be able to lift 50 lbs. Must be able to climb stairs and ladders. Can perform typical duties of a painter and/or craftsperson.

Work Environment

Scene shop for Louis B. Mayer Theatre and Fess Parker Studio Theatre on Santa Clara University Campus. All work is presented in-person. Paint area is in a shared shop with carpentry crew. Noise from saws, drills, etc. Safety glasses (provided) are to be worn at all times. Hearing protection is also available.

Schedule

Schedule typically Monday-Thursday from 1-5pm with an occasional Friday or Weekend.

Telecommute

Employees approved to telecommute are required to perform their work within one of these states: California, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, and Illinois.