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Scene Shop Assistant Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Maintain the organization and safety of the scene shop and performance stage. Training is provided. 2. Secondary Responsibilities (if and when assigned): Assist the lighting crew in completing in ...

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Scene Shop Assistant information

What is a scene shop assistant?

Scene Shop Assistants are entry-level theatre professionals who help build, assemble, and maintain scenery and stage props for theatrical productions. They work under the supervision of the Scene Shop Supervisor or Technical Director, assisting with carpentry, painting, moving set pieces, and maintaining tools and materials. This role is essential for ensuring that the stage environment is safe, functional, and visually effective for performances. Scene Shop Assistants often learn on the job, gaining valuable hands-on experience in set construction and stagecraft.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a scene shop assistant?

To thrive as a Scene Shop Assistant, you need a basic understanding of stagecraft, construction techniques, and safety protocols, often supplemented by coursework or hands-on experience in technical theater. Familiarity with power tools, carpentry equipment, and set design software is typically required, and OSHA safety certification can be advantageous. Strong teamwork, time management, and problem-solving skills set exceptional candidates apart in collaborative and fast-paced environments. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring efficient and safe set construction that supports successful theatrical productions.

What challenges might a scene shop assistant face during a production build, and how can they be addressed?

Scene Shop Assistants often encounter challenges such as tight deadlines, last-minute design changes, and the need to collaborate with multiple departments like lighting, props, and costume teams. Adapting quickly to shifting priorities, maintaining clear communication, and being proactive in seeking clarification from supervisors can help address these issues. Additionally, developing strong organizational skills and familiarity with shop tools and safety protocols will make handling these challenges more manageable and ensure smooth production processes.

What is the difference between Scene Shop Assistant vs Set Builder?

AspectScene Shop AssistantSet Builder
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical or vocational training often preferred
Work EnvironmentScene shop, assisting with construction and setupWorkshop or construction site, building sets from scratch
Employer & IndustryTheatrical, film, TV production companiesTheatrical, film, TV, and event production companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Scene Shop Assistant primarily supports the construction and setup of scenery in a shop environment, assisting with various tasks. The Set Builder focuses on designing and constructing complete sets, often taking on more complex building responsibilities. Both roles are essential in production environments, but the Set Builder typically requires more specialized skills and experience.

How to become a scene shop assistant?

To become a scene shop assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and some experience with carpentry, woodworking, or stagecraft. Skills in operating tools, understanding safety procedures, and teamwork are important, and some positions may require familiarity with design software or theatrical equipment. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or entry-level roles can improve job prospects in this field.

What are the duties of a scene shop assistant?

A scene shop assistant is responsible for assisting with the construction, setup, and maintenance of scenery and props for theatrical productions. They operate tools such as saws and drills, follow safety protocols, and work under the supervision of carpenters or designers to ensure timely completion of set pieces. Attention to detail and knowledge of woodworking and stage equipment are important for this role.

What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Scene Shop Assistant jobs?

Cities in Wisconsin with the most Scene Shop Assistant job openings:

Scene Shop Carpenter/Painter Position

Superior, WI • On-site

Universities of Wisconsin
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

$14/hr

Part-time

Posted 6 days ago


University Of Wisconsin System rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

290th of 633 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Current Students: If you are currently employed or enrolled as a student at any of the Universities of Wisconsin, log in to Workday to apply through the internal application process. Workday Internal Jobs Site for Students
Position Title:
Scene Shop Carpenter/Painter Position
Job Category:
Student Hourly
Job Profile:
Student Help
Job Summary:
Scene Shop Carpenter/Painter Position
$14.00/hr
JOB SUMMERY
Build and paint theatrical scenery, furniture, and hang masking curtains for all UWS Theatre productions. Maintain the organization and safety of the scene shop and performance stage. Student employees will be working with various professional shop tools: drills, saws, staplers, nailers, sanders and painting products. Students will be lifting and moving lumber and stage scenery, as well as climbing ladders. The average work week is 10 hours but can be less or more hours dependent on the student's daily/weekly availability. Holidays and college breaks are unscheduled, and the theatre shops and box office are closed. There are some work Saturdays and Sundays scheduled for the season. One for each production.
Saturdays are used to complete the production construction. Sundays are used to partially dismantle the production. UWS Theare performances are Thursday-Sunday and are performed for two weekends. There are four shows a year, two main stage productions for each semester and two smaller alternative productions each semester. These
performance and special work dates are scheduled well in advance and are posted on the UWS Theatre Student Employee Canvas portal.
1. Primary Responsibilities:
  • Follow supervisor's instructions when building and painting scenery, maintaining props furniture, and hang masking curtains. Training is provided.
  • Maintain the organization and safety of the scene shop and performance stage. Training is provided.

2. Secondary Responsibilities (if and when assigned):
  • Assist the lighting crew in completing in hanging and circuiting lighting and sound equipment when needed. Training is provided.

3. General Responsibilities (if and when assigned):
  • Assist with the general organization, maintenance and inventory control of all shops, supplies, and equipment: makeup, sewing notions, electronics, hardware, power tools, paint, etc.
  • Assist with the requests to borrow or rent equipment, props, costumes, etc.
  • Assist with Box Office duties and ushering during performances.

  • Assist the Costume Shop.

  • Attend scheduled UWS Theatre student employee meetings, work Saturdays, and Sundays dismantling the set. These dates are scheduled well in advance.

Primary Qualifications:
  • Enthusiasm and a desire to work in technical theatre.
  • Must qualify for federal work study. Must be a current or incoming UWS student.
  • Must be able to work a minimum of 5 hours a week. 10hrs/wk preferred. 20hrs/wk max.
  • Must be able to lift and carry up to 75 pounds short distances.
  • Must be able to work on ladders and powered lift at heights up to 10 feet or higher.
  • Be aware of any allergic reactions to latex gloves and paints and dust sensitivities.
  • Work well unsupervised.

Preferred Qualifications (but not necessary):
  • The qualifications below are preferred but not needed.
  • Previous high school, college or community theatre experience.
  • Experience or interest in operating wood shop powered tools and painting.
  • Basic knowledge in carpentry and painting.

Notice to New Employees: Employment will require a criminal background check. A pending criminal charge or conviction will not necessarily disqualify an applicant. In compliance with the Wisconsin Fair Employment Act, the University does not discriminate on the basis of arrest or conviction record
Key Job Responsibilities:
Department:
Compensation:
Required Qualifications:
Preferred Qualifications:
Education:
How to Apply:
Contact Information:
UW-Superior, A Superior Place:
The University will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except that the identities of 'final candidates' must be revealed upon request. According to the Attorney General, 'final candidates' under Wisconsin law means the five candidates who are considered most qualified for the position. See Wis. Stat. Sec. 19.36(7)(a).
Employment will require a criminal background check, and if you have prior work history within the last seven years with Universities of Wisconsin or State of Wisconsin agencies, a personnel file review check for employee misconduct. It will also require your references to answer questions regarding employee misconduct, sexual violence and sexual harassment. The University reserves the right to check references with notice given to the candidates at the appropriate time in the process.
Employment is subject to federal laws that require verification of identity and legal right to work in the United States as required by the Immigration Reform and Control Act.
For UW-Superior campus safety information and crime statistics, review the Annual Security Report or contact the University Police Department Safety at 715-394-8114 for a printed copy.
UW is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other bases protected by applicable federal or State law and UW System policies. We are committed to building a workforce that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills, and encourage all qualified individuals to apply.

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