VENUE TECHNICIAN (Fly System Operator and Stage Carpenter)
/Job Title:
VENUE TECHNICIAN (Fly System Operator and Stage Carpenter)
Organization:
The Cultch
Deadline:
Oct. 21, 2026
Organization Description:
For 53 years, The Cultch has presented unforgettable theatre, dance, circus and music, bringing world-class local, national and international presentations to thousands of patrons each year. In addition, we have a vibrant rental clientele and a unique Youth Program, extending our community reach. Located just off Commercial Drive, The Cultch is also a great place to work. Our team members include people like you - enthusiastic, innovative, passionate, detail-oriented and energetic who have a love and knowledge of the contemporary performing arts in all forms and delight in sharing this passion.
The Cultch operates three theatres: the Historic Stage and Vancity Culture Lab at The Cultch on Venables Street and the York Theatre on Commercial Drive. We believe you'll find our high-performance culture personally fulfilling, professionally challenging and artistically rewarding. Join our team and share our vision of a future filled with the best that contemporary art has to offer.
Website:
Job Description:
Reporting to the Production Manager and Technical Director, the Venue Technician (Fly System Operator and Stage Carpenter) is responsible for the duties listed below. This is a Union position governed by the terms and conditions of the Collective Agreement between the Cultch and IATSE Local 118.
START DATE: November 30, 2026 preferred. Start date can be flexible for the right candidate.
LOCATION: The Venue Technician will work in all of The Cultch's venues (York Theatre, Historic Theatre, Culture Lab, and Greenhouse Studio).
HOURS OF WORK: This is an ongoing seasonal part-time contract. The current season will run until June 6, 2027. As per the collective agreement, a minimum of 24 hours of work are guaranteed each week until the end of the season on June 6, 2027. More hours may and will be scheduled during this period. Many weeks will be full time or more. Work hours will take place at all times including on weekends, and in the late afternoon and evenings of weekdays. Days off are flexible and based on the performance schedule. The successful candidate will have the right of first refusal to work between our defined seasons, and will be part of our seasons into the future.
Responsibilities:
-Act as Head Flys, Head Carp, or Venue Technician on show runs as required
-Collaborate with the Technical Director and/or Production Manager prior to events
-Act as crew chief for load ins, load outs and/or restore shifts, ensuring safe working practices are being upheld, and that breaks and schedules remain on track
-Maintain storage areas, technical equipment and common theatre spaces for all 3 venues
-Assist in other Cultch production departments with advice and technical aid when requested
-Comply with BC safe working practice and methodology; instruction of other employees in proper work procedures and the use of safety equipment while working at height, either on ladders, or in personnel lifts
-Ongoing training and upgrading as required
Supervision shall include checking that all work is done in a manner that ensures the safety of the Staff, Performers and Patrons of The Cultch. All of the above duties and responsibilities are to be conducted in a cost effective manner, ensuring that productions stay on schedule and alerting the Production Manager of any cost overruns in a timely manner.
Qualifications:
-A post-secondary diploma in production and/or a minimum 3 years professional experience in technical theatre
-Comprehensive knowledge and experience in operating theatrical fly systems.
-Comprehensive knowledge of Theatre Stage Rigging and Stage Carpentry
-Experience in supervision of technical personnel
-Working knowledge of basic Lighting, Sound, Video, and Projection Systems
-Fall Arrest Certification, or willingness to obtain
-The ability to work to schedule and meet deadlines and work well under pressure
-Excellent interpersonal skills are essential for working with a diverse group of artists, producers, directors, other staff and IATSE crew
-Ability to handle unexpected situations and work in a team environment including willingness to welcome and guide clients and crew through what our theatre has to offer whether they are designers, directors, artists or event organizers
-Ability to deal calmly and effectively with public emergency situations and audience safety issues
-Flexible schedule; ability to work evenings, weekends and holidays
-Physically fit in order to load arbors, do multiple trips up and down ladders and stairs, and comfortable working at heights
-Good communication skills and a love of performing arts
-Computer skills including experience with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, is an asset
-Level 1 Occupational First Aid certificate is an asset
How to Apply:
If this sounds like you, please send your application and cover letter with your availability and references to hiring@thecultch.com with “Venue Technician” in the subject line.
The Cultch is committed to an accessible, safe, and inclusive environment. We respect, value and celebrate the diverse experiences of each person and actively encourage everyone to consider joining our team. If you need assistance or have questions at any stage of the application process, please do not hesitate to reach out. Applications from equity-seeking groups are particularly encouraged. Accommodation will be provided throughout the recruitment process to applicants with disabilities.
We thank all applicants for their interest in working at The Cultch, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Remuneration:
$29.35 per hour less Union dues, plus IATSE 118 RRSP contributions and pay in lieu.
