Lighting Technicians work within one of three lighting teams based in the Cottesloe, the Lyttelton and the Olivier, led by Lighting Operations Managers and Supervisors. Staff are expected to work in each venue, outside in Theatre Square, in other NT venues and on tour when necessary. Each team has a dedicated lighting programmer who is responsible for cascading informal training, providing support to developing programmers and maintaining set standards and methodology.

Lighting Technicians are expected to operate shows and, with support, are encouraged to programme shows and other events when possible. Whilst programming is a recognised and structured skills pathway within the NT Lighting Department, other pathways such as project supervision and the maintenance of technology are encouraged and required to ensure the theatre teams have robust support structures in place to ensure the highest standards are maintained".

The Lighting operational teams are supported by the Lighting Resources department who are responsible for equipment provision, maintenance, testing and capital renewal along with theatre dimming, networking and wiring infrastructure.­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­

Purpose of Job

Lighting Technicians are required to rig, focus, and maintain lighting rigs and operate lighting control systems on National Theatre productions. They may be invited to assist with the lighting design. The work may be carried out on any of the National's stages, relevant working areas, and at designated outside venues on tour.

Duties and Responsibilities

1.To rig, check, and focus lighting equipment and set up for fit-ups, rehearsals, changeovers and performances.
2.To operate lighting control systems during rehearsals and performances and programme platforms and small productions.
3.To build electrical, mechanical, electronic and lighting effects and props as required to specified designs where appropriate under Supervision.
4.To operate follow spots during rehearsals and performances.
5.To ensure that electrically operated effects are set up and operated during performances.
6.To operate 'plug and play' pyrotechnic devices on cue during performance.
7.To load/off-load lighting and ancillary equipment as required (Get-in Get-outs).
8.To carry out first-line maintenance of all production and non production (work lights and house lights) lighting and related equipment, in accordance with manufacturers' recommendations.
9.When required and agreed, appear on stage in appropriate clothes or costume in order to carry out specific lighting, effects or cues.
10.To attend rehearsals as required.
11.To prepare and maintain accurate plots and records detailing all aspects of performance-related equipment.
12.To check and prepare National Theatre and/or hired equipment for use in-house or at an outside venue to be used by the NT.
13.To connect power to equipment ('plug and play') used on stage or in rehearsal rooms for productions and rehearsals - where appropriate under Supervision.
14.To use computers for documentation, communication and interpret CAD plans
15.To support the National's internal communication objectives by sharing information with all your colleagues, so that you and your colleagues have all the information you need to perform your duties effectively.
16.To adhere to the National's Health and Safety and Equal Opportunity Policies at all times and maintain a safe working environment.
17.To wear protective clothing and footwear when required and to adhere to codes of practice as directed.
18.To participate in NT training and workplace assessment programmes as necessary.

Person Specification

The post holder should ideally have the following:

1.Extensive lighting operational experience in large-scale repertory theatre and touring.
2.Excellent lighting craft and focusing skills and the ability to work at height using access equipment & ladders.
3.The ability to carry out first-line maintenance on modern lighting fixtures and control equipment.
4.The ability to program and operate modern lighting control consoles and associated equipment.
5.Demonstrable knowledge and understanding of lighting design techniques and experience of re-lights.
6.The ability to diagnose and rectify faults on lighting control systems and equipment in a systematic and methodical manner.
7.Industry recognised certificates in rigging, working at height, Health & Safety and electrical awareness are desirable.
8.The ability to read and interpret lighting rig plans, ground and stage plans using CAD, WYSIWYG/ESP Vision and other software.
9.An awareness of current Health & Safety legislation including Electricity at Work, LOLER, PUWER, risk assessment and working at height.
10.Good communication skills, written and verbal with good administration and organisational skills.
11.Self-motivated, pro-active with the ability to work well with others.
12.Up to date knowledge of current LX equipment with the ability to source information and keep abreast of new technologies and working practices.
13.The ability to work calmly under pressure and prioritise conflicting demands.
14.Good IT skills including the use of Outlook, Internet Explorer, Word, Excel and CAD software.

Smoking Policy

Please note that the National Theatre is a no-smoking building.

Alcohol Policy

All NT staff are expected to remain alcohol free during working hours and take personal responsibility for presenting themselves in a fit state for work i.e. alcohol free.