Rigging Technician (Touring) – VStar Entertainment Group

About the role

We are looking for our next Head Rigger to join VStar Entertainment Group’s Touring Theatrical Crew. The main objective of this role is to oversee and manage all rigging aspects of the show.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all rigging and automation elements;
• Ensure the safe use of the rigging equipment;
• Operate rigging equipment during performances;
• Maintain cue track documentation;
• Conduct regular maintenance of all department equipment;
• Reflect professionalism of the company and its equipment while adhering to Best Practice Safety Protocols;
• Safely construct, use, secure, and continue to maintain all aspects of truss, chain hoist, and specialized rigging related to the production;
• Strive to maintain the artistic “look” of the show from performance and operation standpoints;
• Learn, memorize, and effectively perform backstage deck track and aerialist cues assigned to role;
• Run and troubleshoot operation of all rigging elements during performances;
• Develop a thorough knowledge of all rigging department equipment specific to the production in order to operate equipment safely;
• Train local crews in each venue with backstage deck track assigned to rigging locals;
• Make decisions on grid trussing placement;
• Participate in special projects including the installation of new rigging show elements, and interdepartmental projects that include rigging elements or other needs that may fall within the technician’s specialty as directed;
• Work with carpentry, prop, and wardrobe department heads to make a master track sheet of all event cues and scene changes.

Requirements

• Related experience, or combination of training and/or education in technical theater and rigging as it relates to live performances;
• Ability to effectively train, develop and evaluate assigned staff;
• Knowledge of theatrical rigging systems, truss, and chain motor hoist operations;
• Experience as a deck hand in backstage settings as it relates to a live performance with rigging elements;
• Knowledge of hand tools and some power tools;
• Basic understanding of theatrical terms and directions;
• Ability to effectively navigate a crowded theatrical backstage work area during load ins, performances, and load outs;
• Ability to calculate figures proportions and apply concepts of basic algebra, geometry, and physics as they relate to load bearing concepts, calculations, and forces;
• Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals;
• Ability to understand instructions in oral, written and diagram form in order to apply common sense to troubleshoot and solve problems;
• Willingness to work extensive and irregular work hours;
• If required for position, be an active IATSE union member or willingness to join;
• Fluent in English, both written and spoken;
• If applicable for the tours travel schedule must be and remain in good standing with all proper authorities throughout the Services Period, including maintaining the validity of one’s passport and the ability to travel internationally;
• CDSEG employees travelling in countries where COVID-19 vaccination proofs are required will still need to comply with these requirements as a condition of employment;
• 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;
• Able to pass a background check, which may include, but is not limited to, credit, criminal, DMV, previous employment, education, and personal references, per Company policy, unless prohibited by federal, state, or provincial law;
• 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.