About the Long Center

For Austinites of every background, the Long Center is the community gathering place that offers the most diverse programming and stunning views of the city, so that together, everyone can experience remarkable live arts and entertainment.

Position Summary  

The Head Carpenter supports the Production Department and the Long Center team by overseeing house staging and rigging operations. This position will interface with incoming companies and clients while maintaining the highest level of safety and artistic standards. The Head Carpenter will supervise the set up and the safe operation of Long Center staging & rigging equipment, overseeing maintenance needs and ensuring these systems operate at peak levels. As an integral member of the Long Center’s Production staff, they will act as part of a team, supporting and assuming other stagehand tasks as assigned.    

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

• Design stage and rigging systems and serve as House Head Carpenter and Rigger for Long Center Presents shows and rental events 
• Advance with Production staff of incoming clients to ensure that stage and rigging needs can be effectively and safely met 

• Support load-ins, load-outs, technical rehearsals, and performances as assigned 

• Direct stagehands, volunteers, and contract labor brought in to assist with productions and events 

• Train local stage and rigging technicians on safe and correct operation of Long Center equipment, within manufacturer guidelines and current industry protocols 

• Track stage and rigging equipment inventory 

• Advise the Director of Production and the Production team on the status of stage and rigging systems and any need for remedial action as necessary 

• Work with Director of Production (or their designee) to prepare and maintain a capital replacement schedule of the stage and rigging systems, making budget recommendations for equipment upgrades and capital improvements  

• Schedule and execute inspections, supervise and make repairs to stage and rigging systems and equipment, and supervise third-party vendors for repairs and maintenance 

• Pursue opportunities for continuing education in the stage and rigging field, staying informed of the latest technologies, techniques, equipment, OSHA10/30, ETCP, and chain motor repair 

• Assist Production staff with all aspects of production, with availability to work long and irregular hours  

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities) 

• Associate's degree or equivalent from two-year college, technical or trade school and at least 4 years of directly related experience and training; or an equivalent combination of education and experience 

• Experience with all aspects of stage and rigging systems, equipment and maintenance needs, including knowledge of and proficiency with the following: 

• • Counterweight fly systems, rigging systems, and chain hoist systems 
  • Elevated work platforms, scaffolding, and shaft-driven lift devices 

• • Curtain systems, both manual and automated 

• • Orchestra Shell systems 

• • Hand and bench mounted tools for carpentry, rigging, welding, painting 

• • Computer skills: MS Office suite, CAD 

• • Basic stagecraft experience in lighting, audio, and video 

Work Environment  

This is an onsite job located in the heart of Austin, Texas. The Long Center provides robust health benefits and generous PTO, along with a 401(k) + employer matching. Salary and overtime conditions are determined by a collective bargaining agreement with IATSE Local 205. Evenings, weekends, and holiday availability is required.

The Head Carpenter must occasionally lift up to 75 pounds, move up to 250 pounds, and must be comfortable working in confined spaces and at heights. The noise level in the work environment is usually low to moderate and can be high. Ear protection will be provided when needed. 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 the functions.  

The Long Center is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer 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.