Lead Scenic Artist - 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 Lead Scenic Artist works in coordination with the Head Scenic Artist to paint and produce specialty finishes such as marble, wood grain, aging, breakdown, and other faux finishes. They must be able to execute painting of a pictorial nature on any scale including backdrops and cut-outs. They must also be able to assume all responsibilities in the absence of the Head Scenic Artist.
Responsibilities:
• Apply advanced scenic painting techniques including wood grain, marble, aging, distressing, and other faux finishes
• Execute pictorial painting on a variety of scales, including large-scale backdrops and cut-outs, with precision and attention to detail
• Prepare surfaces, apply primers and sealers, and create textures as specified in the scenic designs
• Mix and match colours accurately; apply washes, glazes, and other finish techniques
• Use drawing, layout, scaling, and stencil creation techniques to translate designs into scenic finishes
• Work effectively with a variety of materials including canvas, wood, foam, metal, and plastics
• Use scenic paint products safely and effectively (latex, acrylic, dyes, dry pigments etc.)
• Adapt techniques and materials to align with designer intent and respond to changes in creative direction
• Organize paint shop, tools, inventory, and materials
• Ensure safe use of ladders, lifts, spray equipment, and chemicals in accordance with safety standards
• Collaborate with scenic carpentry, props, and technical departments to achieve production goals
• Attend production and company meetings and onstage note sessions as required
• Demonstrate problem-solving and adaptability in a fast-paced production environment
• Ensure a safe, clean, and organized work environment in compliance with safety standards
• Promote and uphold a respectful, inclusive, and professional workplace
• Communicate clearly, respectfully, and professionally with designers, team members and production staff
Qualifications:
• Minimum 3 years of professional experience in theatrical scenic art
• Post-secondary education in fine arts, theatre production, or equivalent professional experience
• Supervisory experience working in unionized and collaborative production environments an asset
• Strong working knowledge of scenic painting materials, tools, and application techniques
• Proficiency with shop and personal safety standards
• Excellent attention to detail and strong organizational skills
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively under tight deadlines
• Valid Class 5 BC driver’s license (asset)
• First Aid certification (asset)
• Physically able to lift up to 50 lbs., work at heights, use stairs and ladders, and work with paints and solvents in various environments
How to Apply:
Please apply with a cover letter and resume to: jobs@pacificopera.ca
Applications will be reviewed as received.
Remuneration:
$35.99+ benefits, in accordance with IATSE Local 168 collective agreement with Pacific Opera Victoria.
Contact Name: Christopher Sibbald
Contact Email: jobs@pacificopera.ca
