POSITION:   Scenery Assistant    

CLASSIFICATION:  Seasonal - Full Time

STATUS:   Non-Exempt

REPORTS TO:   Scenery Supervisor  

LOCATION:   Williamstown, MA

COMPENSATION: $20 Per Hour with a preseason design fee of $1,200

HIRING TIMELINE: Applications to be accepted until filled with a priority application deadline of 3/18/2024. Application review and interviews to be conducted starting 3/18/2024 with an anticipated start date of 06/13/24 and end date of 8/4/24.

JOB SUMMARY: 

The Williamstown Theatre Festival is seeking a creative and skilled individual to join our team as a Scenery Assistant for the 2024 season. As a Scenery Assistant, you will work under the direction of the Scenery Supervisor to create and execute the scenic design for one of our main productions. Scenery assistants will also get hands-on experience working as a member of the scenic team during the build, load-in, and technical rehearsal process. 

It's important to note that this position involves pre-season work, starting before your arrival on campus, to create your scenic design. The position will begin remotely on a part-time basis starting April 15th. Interested candidates should submit their resume, portfolio, and a cover letter detailing their interest in the position. 

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

Scenic Execution:

• Work with the guest director and Scenery Supervisor to conceptualize and visualize the scenic design for the assigned production.
• Assist in the technical design process, translating conceptual ideas into practical and achievable plans for set construction, painting, and installation.
• Attend rehearsals to understand the dynamics of the performance and make design adjustments accordingly.
• Assist the production team with sourcing and procuring materials needed for the scenic designs, ensuring timely and cost-effective solutions.
• Participate in the construction and assembly of scenic elements, overseeing the technical execution to bring designs to life.
• Adhere to safety protocols and guidelines to ensure a secure working environment for yourself and the entire production team.

Team Collaboration:

• Collaborate with the director, Scenery Supervisor, and creative team to ensure the scenic design aligns with the artistic vision of the production. 
• Contribute to creative problem-solving and troubleshooting during the production process, addressing challenges related to set construction and implementation.
• Work closely with other departments, including lighting, sound, and costumes, to achieve a cohesive and integrated production design.
• Partake in season debrief meetings and create documentation of notes that will better serve the position and scenery department next summer.
• Embrace the Festival’s commitment to EDIA and Anti-Racism by actively participating in and encouraging behaviors among staff members that exemplify respect; interrupting microaggressions and other behaviors that hinder our EDIA and Anti-Racism efforts; engaging in the diversification of the workforce; demonstrating a degree of cultural competency that encourages healthy relationships with all company members

QUALIFICATIONS:

• The Williamstown Theatre Festival does not require a specific number of years of experience or have a minimum for educational credentials. 
• Previous professional experience or relevant internships in either theatrical scenic design or construction is preferred.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic production environment.
• Eagerness to learn and a proactive approach to tasks.
• An essential function of this job is in-person work in Williamstown, MA.