Head Carpenter - Seasonal
/Organization:
Pacific Opera Victoria
Deadline:
Jun. 30, 2025
Organization Description:
Pacific Opera Victoria is one of the most influential professional opera companies in Canada. Our vision is for a world in which opera enriches the lives of everyone. Our mission is to create distinctive and inclusive opera experiences which inspire and engage artists and audiences. We deliver our mission with integrity and uncompromising adherence to our values: Quality, Leadership, Innovation, Collaboration, Learning, Inclusivity and Stewardship.
Pacific Opera Victoria identifies Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Reconciliation among its Core Values and encourages applications from candidates of diverse backgrounds.
For more information about Pacific Opera, please visit our website www.pacificopera.ca
Website:
Job Description:
Pacific Opera Victoria is currently accepting applications for seasonal production positions for the 2025-2026 season. These positions are seasonal contracts running from July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026 with the Pacific Opera shop typically operating from July to May. All Opera Shop production staff work under the jurisdiction of IATSE Local 168.
The duties of the Head Carpenter shall include but not be limited to the co-ordination of the Set Construction Department and the manufacture of all scenic elements as specified in the designs. The Head Carpenter is responsible for disbursement of the assigned budget and delegation of work required for the efficient operation of the Department. They shall produce construction drawings for all scenery; liaise with designers regarding details and finishing techniques as specified in the designs, liaise with other departments to coordinate and accomplish the timely completion of finishing techniques. They shall be responsible for the care and maintenance of shop equipment, ensure that all scenery is constructed and rigged to ensure safe installation and use at the performance venue. They shall plan and manage pack, load in, load out, and onstage set notes.
Responsibilities:
• Apply advanced carpentry skills to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality scenic builds
• Construct and fabricate scenic elements from technical drawings and designer specifications
• Develop construction drawings and documentation for scenic builds
• Oversee scenic construction and rigging, with a proactive, safety-first approach
• Liaise with designers and all production departments to ensure seamless collaboration and timely completion of scenic elements
• Plan and supervise all aspects of load-in, installation, onstage adjustments, and strike
• Collaborate with other departments (paint, props, electrics, costumes, etc.) to support integrated production needs
• Supervise and delegate tasks to carpentry staff and casual crew, fostering a respectful, collaborative work environment
• Manage assigned budgets, schedules, and materials procurement for scenic builds
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized shop and stage environment in compliance with safety standards
• Inspect and maintain shop equipment, power tools, and rigging gear
• Maintain accurate inventory and maintenance records of scenic equipment and materials
• Support other production activities, including special events, rentals, and touring needs
• Attend production and company meetings as required
• Demonstrate problem-solving and adaptability in a fast-paced production environment
• Promote and uphold a respectful, inclusive, and professional workplace
• Communicate clearly, respectfully, and professionally with designers, team members and production staff
Qualifications:
• Minimum 5 years of professional experience in theatrical carpentry or scenic construction
• Post-secondary education in technical theatre, scenic construction, or equivalent professional experience
• Proficient in reading and interpreting scenic and construction drawings
• Experience supervising crew in unionized production environments, with a leadership style that promotes collaboration and mutual respect
• Strong knowledge of rigging systems, fly systems, safety standards, and industry practices
• Working knowledge of scenic materials and construction techniques, Carpentry, welding, etc.
• Experience with costing, scheduling, and managing resources
• Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple deadlines
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel)
• Familiarity with CAD software such as Vectorworks (asset)
• Valid Class 5 BC driver’s license (asset)
• First Aid certification (asset)
• Comfortable working at heights, with power tools, in low-light or loud environments, and lifting up to 50 lbs.
How to Apply:
Please apply with a cover letter and resume to: jobs@pacificopera.ca
Applications will be reviewed as received.
Remuneration:
$37.87 + benefits, in accordance with IATSE Local 168 collective agreement with Pacific Opera Victoria.
Contact Name: Christopher Sibbald
Contact Email: jobs@pacificopera.ca
