Specialist Technician

Join the dynamic team at Arden School of Theatre as a Specialist Technician, supporting our vibrant Technical Theatre & Stage Management Course, and Arden productions. We are seeking a skilled and proactive individual with a focus on production management and scenic construction.

This hands-on role involves working on Arden productions within production management and scenic construction while delivering workshops, supervising student sessions, and providing specialist curriculum support., * Theatre Maintenance: Ensuring theatres are fully operational and set up for technical/teaching sessions.

• Rehearsal Room Maintenance: Overseeing the upkeep and functionality of rehearsal spaces.
• Equipment Management: Handling the check-in and check-out process for technical equipment, maintaining inventory, and ensuring items are in good working order.
• Workshop Support: Demonstrating equipment and techniques during workshops, assisting students with hands-on learning.
• Mentoring and supporting students deployed on productions.
• Perform routine checks and maintenance on studio and rehearsal room equipment.
• Provide technical support during classes, workshops, and performances.
• Maintain accurate records of equipment usage and servicing.
• Collaborate with academic staff to deliver practical demonstrations and support student projects.
• Troubleshoot technical issues and provide timely solutions.

Excellent problem-solving skills, strong organisational ability, and a flexible, can-do attitude are essential. Be part of an institution that nurtures talent and champions innovation in the Industry., To be successful in this role, you will need:

• Level 2 English & Mathematics
• Industry relevant qualifications (i.e. IPAF, IOSH, PASMA etc)
• First Aid qualification (or be prepared to work towards within first year)
• Specific relevant industry experience in technical theatre.
• Ability to work as a team and individually
• Working to deadlines
• Strong organisational and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with students and staff.
• A proactive and collaborative approach to technical support.
• Experience working in an educational or performing arts environment.
• Familiarity with software such as AutoCAD, Sketch Up, Vectorworks and the Adobe Suite.
• Knowledge of a variety of theatrical areas, i.e. Lights, Sound, AV, Wardrobe.
• Proven practical and relevant experience in the construction of scenic elements and props in wood , metal or other construction systems.
• Proven ability to produce technical plans from final set designs to be used for both costing and fabrication.
• Proven experience in the use of a wide range of scenic workshop based hand and power tools including woodworking and metalworking
• Good knowledge of construction materials relevant to scenic construction and prop making industries .
• Experience of setting up and rigging scenery and stage decking.

Desirable Skills

• Full driving licence
• Welding skills
• Electrical skills
• Scenic painting skills
• Prop making skills

This exciting opportunity is based at our City Centre campus on a permanent, full time (35 hours per week) basis., * 35 days paid annual leave plus 8 bank holidays

• 3 well-being days per year
• Significant pension contribution
• Retail discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Cycle to work scheme

At UCEN Manchester, we are proud to be recognised as a leading further education provider, rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted and renowned for our commitment to excellence and innovation. As an employer of choice, we offer state-of-the-art facilities across our campuses, providing a modern, inspiring environment for both staff and students. Our inclusive and forward-thinking culture supports personal and professional development, with a strong focus on wellbeing and work-life balance. When you join UCEN Manchester, you become part of a passionate team dedicated to transforming lives and shaping the future of education in Greater Manchester.