Apprentice Theatrical Rigging Jobs in Chicago, IL

JOB TITLE: House Carpenter 

REPORTS TO: Production Manager 

FLSA STATUS: Full-Time, Hourly, Non-Exempt 

COMPENSATION RATE: $33.44 per hour 

UNION: IATSE Local 2 

LOCATION: Multiple 

POSITION SUMMARY: 

The House Carpenter is an integral member of the production team responsible for supporting the safe and efficient execution of all scenic and backstage operations at The Goodman. This role oversees the daily operation, maintenance, and movement of production elements during technical rehearsals, performances, special events, and changeovers. 

Working closely with Production Management, Stage Management, Technical Direction, and stage crews, the House Carpenter helps maintain a safe, organized, and professional backstage environment while ensuring productions are executed according to artistic and technical standards. 

The ideal candidate is a skilled theatre technician and collaborative leader who thrives in fast-paced production environments and is capable of independently managing backstage operations and supervising larger crews through complex production sequences. 

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Coordinate and execute scenic operations during rehearsals, performances, load-ins, strikes, and special events.  

• Supervise backstage crews and delegate assignments to ensure safe and efficient scene transitions.  

• Install, maintain, modify, and repair scenic elements and stage equipment when necessary. 

• Collaborate with Stage Management and department heads to coordinate backstage traffic flow, storage, and workspaces.  

• Maintain the safety, cleanliness, and organization of backstage areas, stage decks, rigging systems, and scenic equipment.  

• Participate in technical rehearsals, including dry tech, cue-to-cues, previews, understudy rehearsals, and performance calls.  

• Provide coverage for stage crew as and when needed. 

• Troubleshoot and resolve scenic, rigging, or automation issues during performances and rehearsals.  

• Assist with the development and maintenance of backstage paperwork including crew tracks, shift plots, run sheets, cueing documentation, and safety procedures.  

• Communicate rehearsal and performance notes between production staff and stage crews.  

• Assist with risk assessment planning and implementation of safe working practices.  

• Support emergency procedures and help secure backstage and production areas when necessary.  

• Attend production meetings, notes sessions, run throughs, and technical planning meetings as assigned.  

• Provide leadership, mentorship, and oversight for overhire crews, apprentices, and stagehands.  

• Support the artistic and operational mission of Goodman Theatre through professional collaboration and communication.  

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:  

• Minimum 4 years of professional experience in theatrical carpentry and/or stage operations; supervisory experience preferred.  

• Strong working knowledge of scenic construction, stage rigging, counterweight systems, automation, and backstage operations.  

• Ability to read and interpret scenic construction drawings and technical paperwork. 

• Experience leading crews and coordinating work in high-pressure production environments.  

• Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills. 

• Ability to adapt quickly to changing production needs and rehearsal processes. 

• Commitment to safe working practices and maintaining a positive backstage culture. 

• Experience with theatrical automation systems, welding, or special effects is a plus. 

• Familiarity with Microsoft Office, AutoCAD, and production-related software preferred. 

• ETCP certification, OSHA training, or other safety certifications are beneficial.  

• Available for daytime, evening, weekend, and holiday hours as required by rehearsal and performance schedules. 

• Model Behavior and values consistent with The Goodman’s Community Agreements and furthering The Goodman’s IDEAA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Anti-Racism and Access) goals. 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: 

• Ability to regularly lift, move, and carry up to 50 pounds or more.  

• Comfortable working at heights on ladders, lifts, catwalks, and grids.  

• Ability to stand, climb, bend, kneel, and work extended production hours as needed.  

BACKGROUND: 

Chicago’s theater since 1925, The Goodman is a not-for-profit arts and community organization in the heart of the Loop, distinguished by the excellence and scope of its artistic programming and community engagement. The theater’s artistic priorities include new play development (more than 150 world or American premieres), large scale musical theater works and reimagined classics. 

We at The Goodman believe that a diversity of people, ideas and cultures in our organization enriches both the art on stage and our civic engagement. In our workplace, we strive to reflect the communities we serve, and make space in which everyone is empowered to bring their full, authentic self to work. The Goodman values equity, diversity and inclusion and is committed to approaching our work through the practice of anti-racism. Learn more at GoodmanTheatre.org/Accountability 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: 

Goodman Theatre offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, paid vacation, sick leave, 401K & Parental Leave. 

The Goodman is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status. By dedicating itself to three guiding principles—quality, diversity and community— The Goodman seeks to be the premier cultural organization in Chicago, providing productions and programs that make an essential contribution to the quality of life in our city. 

The Goodman is an inclusive and accessible employer. Successful candidates will have experience working with diverse groups of people and will demonstrate a deep commitment to advancing equity and inclusion at The Goodman. 

The Goodman uses E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires. 

HOW TO APPLY: 
Qualified individuals are invited to apply by uploading a resume and selecting the “Start Application” button on the right side of the page. On the next page, please attach a cover letter when prompted. No phone calls, please.