Posted by Harbourfront Centre
Harbourfront Centre is an innovative non-profit cultural organization renowned for offering artistic, educational and recreational programming across a beautiful 10-acre campus at the heart of Toronto’s waterfront. With events and activities for a diverse public that enliven, educate and entertain, we welcome visitors year-round, fostering a sense of community and celebrating Canadian culture and the rich mosaic of cultures from around the world.
We are looking to bring on board an experienced, organized and resourceful Manager, Technical Production to oversee the technical operations of Harbourfront Centre’s indoor and outdoor venues, as well as all production equipment and properties.
Position Title: Manager, Technical Production
Department: Production
Reporting To: Manager, Event Production
Direct Reports: Senior Technical Coordinator & Technicians
Number of Vacancies: 1
Type of Employment: Full-time, 35 hours per week
Compensation: Annual salary of $60,000 – $70,000, plus a comprehensive benefits package
Work Location: On-site at our waterfront campus, with some remote work possible as per our Remote Work Policy and based on organizational need
Summary Of Function
The Manager, Technical Production is responsible for the managing the technical operations of Harbourfront Centre including venues within the Artport Building, Stage in the Park, Concert Stage and other outdoor venues. This role has oversight and ownership of all production equipment at Harbourfront Centre including all lighting, sound, video, staging and properties.
The incumbent will support the Production Managers and Coordinators in analyzing and evaluating the need for technical support for various events and performances, planning, developing, scheduling and providing the technical supports required. Key responsibilities also include design lighting and sound systems appropriate to each venue, oversee technical coordinator and union stage crews, advise production managers/coordinators on technical riders and production estimates, coordinate repairs and preventative maintenance on equipment, assist in budget preparation (both operating and capital) and establish and maintain effective working relationships with diverse internal teams and external groups representatives.
Duties
- Maintain and safeguard the technical assets of Harbourfront Centre, including supervision of the use of lighting, sound, communications equipment, and the use and maintenance of stage facilities.
- Full-cycle staff management of Technicians & Technical Coordinator including recruitment, scheduling, task assignment, training and performance management.
- Collaborate with production leads in determining the necessary technical supports, such as lighting, sound, staging, and special needs, necessary for events and performances presented at the facility in advance of production dates.
- Assist with the interpretation of technical riders and oversee technical packages prepared by Production staff.
- Design and maintain lighting and sound systems for theatre, dance, music, and other productions and projects; assist guest designers and artists with technical matters.
- Supervise and assist with set and stage construction and management.
- Orient clients and visiting productions to safety, technical characteristics and other areas of facility operations; facilitate the use of the technical facilities by the resident company and others engaged by or renting the facility.
- Monitor the condition of equipment including lighting, sound, and rigging equipment; arrange for the repair and replacement; perform preventive maintenance on equipment.
- Attend technical rehearsals, as required, to supervise and assist in the technical aspects of the mounting the show.
- Liaise with Harbourfront Centre Site and Operations to identify site requirements for events and scheduling. Make recommendations regarding facilities, site development, maintenance and equipment inventory/purchases as they relate to production activities.
- Attend planning, programming, partner and client meetings, as required, to exchange information and ideas.
- Participate in the evaluation of festivals, events and shows, making recommendations and implementing procedural changes.
- Participate in regular department meetings and follow through on production management action items.
- Assist with the preparation and control of production budgets; maintain inventory and order specialized supplies.
- Assist with the oversight of the Technical Services operating budget, monitor expenses, submit annual operating budget proposal, review budgets and follow up on any budget issues and challenges.
- Reconcile cash advances and expense reports as required.
- Obtain competitive quotes from external vendors when required and evaluate quotes for accuracy.
- Make recommendations to the senior management team regarding capital purchases of technical equipment.
- Ensure all events, staffing, production schedules and other related functions are captured in Harbourfront Centre’s event management systems Artifax.
- Assist the Manager, Event Production, and senior management in the development, implementation and monitoring of operational procedures and guidelines for the Production department.
Requirements
- Post-secondary education with 5 to 10 years demonstrated experience in technical/production in theatre, dance, music and events
- 5+ years supervisory experience.
- Previous experience in a unionized environment and ability to interpret collective agreements.
- Working knowledge of techniques, methods and procedures of theatre, dance, and music productions and presentations including stage, set, sound and lighting design and implementation; stage management; computerized lighting systems; appropriate safety precautions and procedures.
- Working knowledge of various video presentation systems including projectors, LED screens, cameras, switchers, streaming equipment and protocols as well as video capture devices.
- Computer proficiency in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Experience and knowledge of AutoCad and/or Vectorworks is desirable.
- Safe overhead rigging materials and methods. ·
- Strong understanding of the Ontario Ministry of Labour Guidelines for the Performance Industry.
- Strong passion for the arts and client engagement.
- Previous experience with event management and CRM databases is considered an asset.
- Highly effective communication, presentation, interpersonal and relationship building skills and ability to maintain confidentiality.
- Collaborative aptitude, seeking and celebrating the contribution of others.
- Results oriented and proactive, with the ability to multitask, prioritize and work independently.
- Current Province of Ontario driver’s license or evidence of equivalent mobility.
- Current Working at Heights Certificate.
- This role is based in Toronto. As such, candidates must be legally eligible to work in Canada. All international applicants must have a valid employment Visa authorizing their ability to work in Canada on a full-time, ongoing basis.
Our Values
At Harbourfront Centre, our values—Open, Brave, Rigorous, and Kind—reflect our commitment to inclusivity, imaginative risk-taking, excellence, and respect, ensuring enriching experiences for all.
How To Apply
Harbourfront is committed to diversity and inclusiveness. We encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply.
Acceptable applications must include a current resume and a cover letter. Qualified applicants are encouraged to apply by contacting jobs@harbourfrontcentre.com by no later than March 20 2025. Please quote Manager, Technical Production in the subject line of your application.
We extend our thanks to all applicants for their interest, however, only those being considered for an interview will be contacted. We are committed to a barrier-free recruitment process. Suitable accommodations will be available upon request during the hiring process.