Freelance Programmer Jobs in Needham, MA (NOW HIRING)

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Emerson Stage maintains an overhire list of experienced freelance theatre technicians to assist with build, load in and load out of our productions. Individuals on this list are scheduled on an as-needed basis. Emerson Stage sends out an email to the overhire list when these positions are required for projects, indicating the dates/times of the calls, the production and venue, and the positions open. If available, individuals may reply to the email with their availability and will be selected based on their technical experience to fill the call. Seeking the following positions:

• Carpenters

• Riggers

• Scenic Painters

• Props Artisans

• Electricians

• Sound Technicians

• Costume & Wardrobe Technicians

• Wig/Hair & Makeup Technicians

• Projection Technicians

• General Stage Hands

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES

• Carpenters/Riggers:

  • Support the construction, installation, and strike of scenery; interpret technical build drawings safely and efficiently alongside students in coordination with the Technical Director

  • Assist the Technical Director in managing safe theatrical rigging, fly rail operations, and flying or hung scenic equipment during load-in and load-out

• Scenic Painters:

  • Paint and finish all scenic elements including priming, texturing, sculpting, and applying scenic details as designed by the Scenic Designer and Charge Artist

  • Assist in periodic upkeep/touch up of painted elements during the run of a production. Inventory and stock items when needed. Assist in the creation of a "touch up kit" for production and maintain a clean and safe work space

• Props Artisans:

  • Construct, install, and strike properties under the Props Director's guidance; interpret build drawings safely with students using materials such as wood, foam, plastic, and paint

• Electricians:

  • Assist with the hang, focus, cabling, and circuiting of lighting plots under the supervision of the Production Electrician; support console programming and practical cabling/wiring

• Sound Technicians:

  • Set up, test, break down, and cable sound systems to execute designers' plots under the guidance of the Production Sound Engineer; maintain audio gear in coordination with the Sound Supervisor, set up microphones/AV systems, and operate mixing consoles during tech and performances

• Costume & Wardrobe Technicians:

  • Assist with pulling, constructing, and altering costume garments; serve as wardrobe show crew. Maintain costumes throughout production runs. Works closely with the Draper and Costume Shop Manager to complete projects as needed including costume crafts, stitching, and alterations

• Wig/Hair & Makeup Technicians:

  • Assist in the maintenance and implementation of wig or makeup requirements for productions. Assist with performer wig/hair styling, and theatrical makeup application or education to facilitate the designers intent

  • Serve as show run crew and maintain hair and makeup needs during productions. Ensure that quick changes, including those involving special effects makeup or wigs are achieved in a timely, safe and efficient manner

• Projection Technicians:

  • Install, test, and break down projection equipment; execute projection plans under the Projection Engineer's guidance, maintain video equipment, program media consoles, and operate projection systems during tech and shows

• General Stage Hands:

  • Support backstage run operations, including fly rail functions and deck track run crew duties

  • Assist with load-in and strike logistics, seating setups, event prep, and general hospitality

  • Work cross-departmentally as required and run basic light, sound, or video system boards during performances

• Flexibility to assist cross-departmentally as needed

QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, AND SKILLS

• Strong working knowledge of theatrical environments, live staging operations, and safety protocols

• Proficiency in reading and interpreting technical drawings, and safely operating power tools

• Experience hanging, circuiting, focusing, and programming lighting fixtures (familiarity with ETC EOS software is highly desirable)

• Experience with AV setup, signal flow, digital console operations (e.g., Yamaha systems), or theatrical A2 practices

• Stitching skills, garment alterations experience, and experience serving on wardrobe run crews

• Ability to collaborate effectively, integrate into new teams quickly, and work well under pressure

• Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills

• Basic math skills, including geometry, angles, and fractions

• Basic understanding of rigging, counterweight lineset operations, and automation systems

• Professional safety certifications (such as OSHA 10-Hour or Aerial Lift training) are highly valued

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends, nights, and extended production shifts

• Capability to safely lift, carry, and maneuver items weighing 25 to 50 lbs. independently, and up to 75 lbs. with assistance

• Comfortable working at heights of up to 20 feet on ladders, scaffolding, or motorized personnel lifts; appropriate PPE must be worn as needed

• Physical stamina to stand, sit, or maintain difficult physical positions for prolonged periods of time

• Sustained mental stamina, concentration, and acute visual focus during complex technical operations

• Working conditions feature variable noise and lighting levels (from quiet setup to loud, dark stage environments)

Disclaimer: This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees may be required to follow other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties as requested, subject to all applicable state and federal laws. Certain job duties described herein may be subject to possible modification in accordance with applicable state and federal laws.

Hourly rates range from $22 - $27 per hour, commensurate with experience.
IN-OFFICE EXPECTATIONS
This position requires an in-person presence on the Boston Campus during the work week.

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In addition to a competitive salary, Emerson College is committed to the health and well-being of our employees and family members. We offer a generous benefits package to regular staff scheduled to work 20+ hours per week.

Emerson Employment Categories influence work schedules, benefits eligibility, and time off policies. Benefits include outstanding health plans with limited out-of-pocket expenses, dental plans, generous time-off programs, and a 403(b) retirement benefit with a 9% employer contribution once eligible. Additional benefits, such as life and disability coverage as well as commuter offerings, are available.

Please refer to our benefits website for a full list of benefits and eligibility requirements.