Lead Stagehand 

Position Summary

Reporting to the Theatre Business Operations Coordinator, the Lead Stagehand is responsible for providing leadership and direction in the planning, coordination, and execution of technical and operational requirements for various events across the Cultural Services section. This position ensures the effective delivery of production services across cultural facilities and designated indoor and outdoor event spaces as needed with a primary focus on the events taking place at the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Serves as a point of contact for artists, vendors, clients, staff, and other stakeholders, maintaining professionalism and courtesy at all times.
• Performs and/or oversees technical production duties such as rigging, fly systems, lighting and follow-spot operation, audio, video, control booth operation, and general stage work.
• Leads and supervises all aspects of event execution, including load-in, set-up, monitoring, operation, and load-out of technical equipment.
• Supervises set-ups, rehearsals, and performances, ensuring safety procedures and City policies are followed.
• Plans, coordinates, and oversees technical production for theatre bookings, City-led events, rentals, and performances (indoors and outdoors), including staging, lighting, audio, video, power, and related equipment needs.
• Provides technical guidance, training, and orientation to full-time and seasonal stagehands, part-time theatre technicians, volunteers, event organizers, and facility renters, covering equipment use, emergency procedures, and risk management practices.
• Attends production meetings as requested and maintains cooperative working relationships with staff, volunteers, touring crews, and suppliers.
• Conducts backstage inspections using enterprise systems (e.g., Maximo) to ensure maintenance standards are met, deficiencies are addressed, and corrective actions are taken.

Duties and Responsibilities Cont'd

• Operates, maintains, and safeguards capital assets and technical equipment (e.g., video, lighting, sound, rigging, tools, communications systems) and supports maintenance of systems and service contracts.
• Supports the operating and capital budget process, asset management planning, and assists with equipment research, sourcing, costing, and purchasing as directed.
• Conducts risk analysis related to technical and operational issues, taking appropriate action to ensure a safe environment for staff, clients, and audiences.
• Prepares and oversees post-production reports, technical documentation (SOPs), and event records.
• Ensures all work is performed in compliance with applicable legislation (OHSA, Fire Code, Ontario Building Code, ESA, CSA, Technical Standards and Safety Act, Human Rights Act), City policies, and collective agreements.
• Performs operational and facility support duties, including cleaning stage areas, moving furniture, setting up and taking down event equipment (e.g., tables, chairs, tents), and general custodial tasks as required.
• Liaises with internal and external groups to support policy and procedure development related to security, safety, and facility operations.
• Works a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends and statutory holidays.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

• 3-Year BFA (Bachelor of Fine Arts) in Theatre Production & Design / Diploma in Technical Production for the Performing Arts or equivalent with minimum 3 years related and relevant experience
• 1-2+ years of supervisory experience
• Satisfactory Police Vulnerable Sector Check upon hire
• CPR and Standard First Aid Certified 

Required Skills/Knowledge

• Minimum 3 years of technical and operational experience in the culture and entertainment sector, working with diverse events such as theatre, live music, corporate presentations, and other performances.
• Experience operating in a variety of venues and event spaces, including performing arts centres and outdoor spaces.
• Demonstrated expertise in technical event production, including sound, lighting, rigging, video, props, carpentry, and stage management.
• Complete knowledge of professional sound and lighting systems, including digital audio mixing consoles, and advanced programming and operation of lighting consoles with LED and automated fixtures.
• Knowledge of rigging techniques and fly systems; certified experience in working at heights, elevated work platforms, scissor lifts, and rigging considered an asset.
• Experience assisting with the assembly, dismantling, and safe operation of mobile stages.
• Experience interpreting and creating technical drawings and reading event diagrams to set up equipment accurately.
• Skilled in training and instructing others on the operation of sound, video, and lighting controls.
• Working knowledge of building systems, including Building Automation, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, fire alarm and life safety systems, security, and elevators.
• Strong leadership, project management, and organizational skills, including scheduling, staffing coordination, work order tracking, and inventory management.
• Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting up to 50 lbs and working at heights using ladders, catwalks, and lifts.
• Advanced knowledge of relevant legislation and standards, including Occupational Health and Safety Act, Ontario Building Code, Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), and other employment, labour, and health and safety regulations.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills, with the ability to work independently, foster productive teamwork, and maintain professional relationships with a variety of stakeholders.
• Demonstrates and encourages perseverance and resilience in difficult times.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills, resourcefulness, decision-making ability, patience, and emotional intelligence to inspire, teach, and motivate others.
• Demonstrated reliability, professionalism, and a positive attitude, with a strong employment record.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint, and familiarity with scheduling software.
• Ability to perform work outside of normal business hours, providing onsite support before, during, and after events.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, statutory holidays, as operational needs require.
• Ability to travel to various locations across the City as required.
• A valid Ontario Class "G" Driver's License and have access to a vehicle for use on corporate business (mileage compensated). Proof of vehicle insurance required upon hire.

Leadership Competencies