POSITION SUMMARY:
At Zach Theater, we believe in the power of light — to illuminate new ideas, spark imagination, and connect our community. As Austin’s premier professional producing non-profit theater, we create bold, intimate performances that challenge, delight, and inspire audiences. Our work extends beyond the stage, serving more than 100,000 Central Texans each year through performances, education programs, and community engagement initiatives. The Scenic Carpenter plays a pivotal role in constructing scenery and set pieces in accordance with plans provided by technical management in areas such as carpentry, welding, plastics, fabrics or other materials. In addition to participating in load ins, load outs, and soft good changeovers, this role leads the overhire crew on the shop floor and in changeover settings.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Construct scenery and set pieces as instructed by the Technical Director, ATD, or Scene Shop Supervisor with lumber, steel, aluminium, and other construction and finishing materials
- Lead overhire and stage operations crew on specific projects or operations without direct supervision
- Install scenery on stage including mechanically moving pieces, stationary pieces and flying pieces
- Prepare area around stage; could include special railings, seat installation, and other duties that could pertain to any specific production
- Participate in load out at the end of the performance run
- Assist other departments as time and production allow
- Clean up after specific duties are performed, and assist in cleaning up after the entire carpentry crew.
- Maintain Zach scenic and automation inventory
- Operate 24’ box truck and forklift as required
- Assist in the safe and efficient loading of scenery, props, and other production items in box trucks and trailers for both long distance shipping and local drayage
- Special Events: Works with Technical Director and ATD in the scheduling, logistics and technical requirements of company events.
- Rental Program: Supports technical needs of the facility rental program
ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS:
Reports to: Technical Director, Assistant Technical Director, Scene Shop Supervisor
Supervises (if any): None
Supports: Production
Peer collaboration/communicates with: Technical Director, Assistant Technical Director, Scene Shop Supervisor, Scenic Charge and Props Artisans
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
This is an hourly non-exempt position starting at $19-21.00 commensurate with experience and qualifications. New hires are typically brought into the organization between the minimum and midpoint of the range posted depending upon qualifications, years of post graduate, professional experience in a similar role, internal equity, and the budgeted amount for the role.
All offers of employment are conditional pending the successful completion of background and reference checks.
Some of the great benefits available to Zach Employees:
- Affordable Healthcare Coverage for Full-Time Employees and their Dependents
- Employer Paid Life and AD&D insurance
- Employer Paid Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance
- 401K Matching Program
- Vacation, Sick, and Personal Time
- Paid Holidays
- Free Parking
- Tickets to Mainstage and Family Series shows and enrollment in Camps/Classes
Zach Theater is committed to ensuring an equitable and inclusive workforce and we strive for a team that reflects Austin’s diverse culture. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, sex or age.
We’re excited to review your application. To ensure a smooth and fair hiring process, please apply online only. We’re not able to accommodate phone calls or in-person visits about this position.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
- 2 Years Professional Carpentry, Welding, or combination of education and work experience that yields the required skills and abilities.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
- Broad knowledge of carpentry tools and techniques
- Broad knowledge of Metal working tools and techniques
- Broad knowledge of rigging hardware and application
- Ability to understand construction drawings and execute them
- Ability to work as a team member and maintain a positive attitude in times of stress
- Ability to work independently or as part of a team
- Basic knowledge of foam material and how to work with them
- Ability to prioritize projects in order to assure completion as scheduled
- Basic understanding of geometric and mathematical principles
- Knowledge of a wide variety of hand, power, and industrial tools
- Knowledge of PPE, and commonly used safety equipment
- Ability to maintain a safe working environment
- Ability to perform all work with a direct reflection of the vision, mission, and values of Zach Theatre
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:
This is an on-site, campus-based role. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.
- Ability to lift, push, pull or otherwise maneuver up to 70 lbs repeatedly, either alone or with assistance
- Comfortable working on ladders, mechanical lifts or other high places.
- Comfortable working in confined spaces.
- Comfortable working in both indoor and outdoor in a range of conditions including both high and low temperatures
- Must have reliable transportation and the ability to work with a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays as scheduled
- The noise level in this work environment is typically moderate and can be high