Lead Carpenter
/Job Title:
Lead Carpenter
Organization:
Pacific Opera Victoria
Deadline:
Jun. 15, 2026
Organization Description:
Pacific Opera Victoria is one of the most influential professional opera companies in Canada. Its inspired repertoire comprises original productions of classic favourites and lesser known works, as well as new commissions, co-productions, and collaborations with other companies and arts organizations across the country. From its home in the Baumann Centre, Pacific Opera Victoria creates significant career opportunities for creative and performing artists and curates opera in surprising ways – enticing newcomers and captivating loyal opera-goers.
Pacific Opera Victoria identifies Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Reconciliation among its Core Values and encourages applications from candidates of diverse backgrounds.
Website:
Job Description:
The duties of the Lead Carpenter shall include but not be limited to the construction and manufacturing of all scenic elements related to the production while overseeing carpentry crew and maintaining construction techniques and standards as deemed appropriate by the Head Carpenter. They must also be able to assume all responsibilities in the absence of the Head Carpenter.
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
• Read and interpret scenic and construction drawings with accuracy
• Support scenic construction and basic rigging under supervision, with a proactive safety-first approach
• Oversee daily work of carpentry crew in collaboration with the Head Carpenter, fostering a respectful, collaborative work environment
• Participate in planning and executing load-ins, installations, onstage notes, and strikes
• Operate shop equipment, hand tools, and power tools safely and effectively
• Collaborate with other departments (props, electrics, costumes, etc.) to support production needs
• Travel as Production Supervisor for production rentals and co-productions as needed
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized shop and stage environment
• Track materials and assist with maintaining shop inventory and supplies
• 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 3 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
• Familiarity with theatrical rigging practices and fly systems
• Experience supervising crew or leading projects in a unionized shop or production setting an asset
• Working knowledge of scenic materials and theatre construction techniques
• Excellent organizational and communication skills
• Ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities
• Familiarity with CAD software such as Vectorworks (asset)
• Valid Class 5 BC driver’s license (asset)
• First Aid certification (asset)
• Fall Arrest and Elevated Work Platform 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 submit cover letter, resume and portfolio (if available) electronically by end of day June 15, 2026
Include in Subject Header: 2026-2027 Seasonal Shop Position - Lead Carpenter
Email to: jobs@pacificopera.ca
ATTN: Christopher Sibbald, Director of Production & Artistic Administration
Applications will be reviewed as received. The positions will remain open until filled
We thank all applicants for their interest. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
Remuneration:
2025-2026 Hourly Wage: $35.99 + benefits (2026-2027 rates to be negotiated)
