Term- Props Technician

20-Dec-2024

Term- Props Technician

American Repertory Theater

67563BR

Job Summary

The American Repertory Theater (A.R.T.) at Harvard University is a leading force in the American theater, producing groundbreaking work in Cambridge and beyond. A.R.T. produces a mainstage subscription season, as well as additional artistic projects, which expand the boundaries of theater by transforming the ways in which work is developed, programmed, produced, and contextualized, always including the audience as a partner. A.R.T. produces a broad range of theatrical entertainment including new works, pre-Broadway premieres, co-productions and transfers, and international tours.
 
Through groundbreaking and transformational theatrical experiences, A.R.T. believes that theater has the power to heal and imagine collective pathways forward. A.R.T. affirms and celebrates a multitude of perspectives and experiences that reflect the diversity of our country and world and is dedicated to making a welcoming and accessible space for people of any identity, background, or ability.
 
As the professional theater on the campus of Harvard University, A.R.T. is committed to the collaborative and creative exchange among a wide range of academic departments, institutions, students, and faculty members. A.R.T. plays a central role in Harvard’s undergraduate Theater, Dance & Media concentration and also mentors students in the Harvard Radcliffe Dramatic Club at the Loeb Drama Center.

Under the guidance of the Prop Manager and in collaboration with Assistant Prop Manager and Prop Carpenter, the Odyssey Prop Technician will assist in acquiring, fabricating, altering, setting up, storing and disposing of properties for the A.R.T. production of The Odyssey. The position is primarily responsible for general prop construction and finishing of assigned projects. Other duties include assisting in maintenance of warehouse stock and maintaining onsite storage. Performs related tasks as assigned by the Prop Manager for the operation and maintenance of the Prop Department.
 

Position Description

Commitment to valuing diversity and equity:

• contribute to a culture of community, anti-racism, equity, diversity, inclusion, and respect among staff and guest artists
• contribute to an environment of continued learning
• participate in companywide anti-racism and anti-oppression initiatives

• Research materials for assigned build projects.
• Confer with the director/designers as needed.
• Research for historical accuracy as needed.
• Research for purchase options as needed.
• Research fabrication techniques as needed.

• Shop materials for assigned build projects.
• Shop for props online.
• Shop for props in person.

• Plan/Execute projects assigned.
• Assist with show pack/paperwork for future engagements.

• Take part in tech rehearsal notes.
• Take part in overtime work sessions during the tech period.

Basic Qualifications

Candidates MUST meet the following basic qualifications to be considered for this role:

• 1+ years’ experience in a professional/educational prop shop or related field

Additional Qualifications and Skills

If you believe this is a role is one that you will be excited to work in, even if you do not have the following, we encourage you to apply

• Understanding and commitment to basic safety practices for both tools and supplies
• Proficiency in Photoshop, FileMaker, Word, Excel, Google Suite or similar software
• Proficiency with power tools, hand tools and a variety of craft and building supplies
• Experience shopping online/in person
• Experience in carpentry/metalwork
• Experience in upholstery/sewn goods
• Experience in paint/stain techniques including faux theatrical painting
• Experience in crafts including floral, leatherwork, textile, paper, needlework & sculpting
• Experience in constructing theatrical paper products
• Attention to detail and high-quality standards

Physical Requirements

• Able to lift 50 pounds with assistance and be able to stoop, lift, bend and work in low light conditions
• Able to work in a shop environment including concrete floors, occasional loud noises, dust and crowded conditions.
• Able to utilize ladders and stairs daily
• Valid Driver’s License
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Additional Information

This position is subject to periodic unpaid leaves of absence based upon the Production calendar. This position requires occasional overtime and the ability to work some nights and weekends. This position is deemed critical during the production and technical rehearsal period. Primary work takes place in the Prop Shop located in the Loeb Drama Center (a multistory building without an elevator, with work taking place on all levels) with occasional work at the A.R.T. Scene Shop (2 miles from the theater) and the Ashland warehouse location (25 miles from the theater).

This position has a 3-month orientation and review period. 

Harvard University does not provide visa sponsorship.

The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up to date on CDC-recommended vaccines. 
 

Work Format Details

This position is based primarily on-campus, in Massachusetts. This may include in-person during emergency situations (if applicable). Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Benefits

We invite you to visit Harvard's Total Rewards website (https://hr.harvard.edu/totalrewards) to learn more about our outstanding benefits package, which may include:

• Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff), 12 accrued sick days per year, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January, 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire), and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary care givers.
• Health and Welfare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs, along with voluntary benefits. Most coverage begins as of your start date.
• Work/Life and Wellness: Child and elder/adult care resources including on campus childcare centers, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs related to stress management, nutrition, meditation, and more.
• Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation, based on age and earnings with full vesting after 3 years of service.
• Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Program that provides 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses taken at other accredited institutions.
• Professional Development: Programs and classes at little or no cost, including through the Harvard Center for Workplace Development and LinkedIn Learning.
• Commuting and Transportation: Various commuter options handled through the Parking Office, including discounted parking, half-priced public transportation passes and pre-tax transit passes, biking benefits, and more.
• Harvard Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks: Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, credit union, and more, as well as discounts to various types of services (legal, financial, etc.) and cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.

Job Function

Arts

Department Office Location

USA - MA - Cambridge

Job Code

402006 A.R.T. Technician

Work Format

On-Site

Sub-Unit

------------

Salary Grade

052

Department

Props

Union

55 - Hvd Union Cler & Tech Workers

Time Status

Full-time

Appointment End Date

14-Feb-2025

Pre-Employment Screening

Identity

Schedule

Full time. Monday through Friday. 8:30am-4:40pm. 40 hours per week. 

Additional hours during show production. 

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging

Harvard University views equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a campus culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible pool of talent to unify excellence and diversity while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values.

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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