Technician (Stage)

At Derby Theatre, we are a charity and a National Portfolio organisation for Arts Council England, and we’re known for artistic excellence. We’re committed to education. And we believe that theatre can change your life.  

Previously Derby Playhouse, we have a long and important theatrical history. As Derby Theatre, we work in partnership with the University of Derby and are a home for higher education students. We produce new plays and projects, collaborate with artists and local people, and offer training for young people too, with opportunities for learners of all ages. It’s all about empowering people to tap into their potential and achieve.

Technical Department

The Technical Department is part of the wider Production Department, led by the Technical Manager and comprises of the Head of Stage, Head of Lighting & AV, Head of Sound, and three multi-disciplinary Technicians. The department work on all Produced and Received shows, and on external hires and internal projects, including the theatre's large Youth Theatre and outreach events.

The department provides all aspects of technical theatre support, from set builds to show operation, fit-ups to get outs, workshops with school groups to assisting the university Theatre Arts students; if there's a technical part then we're part of it.

The Technician (Stage) is a key member of Derby Theatre’s Production & Technical team, supporting the delivery of produced and visiting productions, learning projects, and events to the highest standards. Working closely with artistic, production, and technical colleagues, the role involves stage operations, show running, fit-ups, get-outs, rigging, equipment maintenance, and backstage support, while assisting the Head of Stage in the day-to-day management of the department.

This hands-on role requires a flexible and collaborative approach, with opportunities to work across all technical theatre disciplines. You will help maintain high standards of health and safety, supervise casual staff, support visiting companies, act as Duty Technician when required, and contribute to the upkeep and development of stage facilities and equipment. As part of Derby Theatre’s Learning Theatre model, you will also support learning opportunities and help create an inspiring environment for students, artists, and audiences.

Anticipated interview date: Monday 5th October 2026

You will have experience working in a stage role within a professional theatre or live entertainment venue, with a strong understanding of technical theatre and production processes. Practical experience of fit-ups, get-outs, and rigging, including fly bars, truss systems, motors, and gridwork, is essential.

We are looking for a proactive and resourceful team player who can build effective working relationships, solve problems under pressure, and manage competing priorities to meet deadlines. You will have a good understanding of theatre health and safety requirements, strong IT and record-keeping skills, and an enthusiasm for supporting learning opportunities for people of all ages.

The role requires the ability to undertake the physical demands of theatre work, including manual handling, working at height, and regular evening and weekend working. As the post involves working with young people, a DBS check will be required.

What should I expect if I am invited to an interview?

We aim to make the interviews as accessible and engaging as possible, and we want you to talk about yourself and your work experience in a relaxed and friendly setting. 

We believe an interview is a chance for you to find more information about the role, us as an organisation and for you to get a sense of whether this is the right environment for you. 

With this in mind, we have designed an interview process which will enable potential candidates to meet members of the team and partners, see some of the spaces you might be working in, and of course a chance to talk about you and your work experience. 

1. To provide technical support on produced and received shows as well as learning projects, including fit-ups, get-outs, and operating shows in accordance with staff rotas.
2. To assist the Head of Stage with responsibility for all stage and rigging equipment, including maintenance and annual inspections to comply with current Health and Safety legislation, and with the upkeep of tools and equipment.
3. To assist the Technical Manager and Head of Stage regarding compliance with all relevant Health & Safety procedures and statutory regulations.
4. To lead and supervise Casual staff as required
5. To act as Duty Technician, as required, taking responsibility for the security of the building, its occupants and associated equipment.
6. To keep up to date with equipment, procedures, Health & Safety, and environmental matters within the theatre and the wider industry.
7. To assist the Technical team in the administrating of incoming companies, touring venues, and other organisations when required.
8. To actively contribute to the effective operation of the Production and Technical department’s work
9. To actively implement and initiate better systems of work wherever applicable.
10. To deputise in the absence of the Head of Stage.
11. Actively support Derby Theatre’s Learning Theatre model, including engaging with the University of Derby’s Theatre-related higher education provision.
12. Lead and facilitate learning opportunities and support the theatre’s wider role as a learning environment.
13. To keep up to date with developments in the industry as they relate to your role, and to contribute to the overall development of the department and organisation
14. To ensure that Derby Theatre’s policies, procedures and values are observed in every area of the department’s work
15. To be responsible for the safe and efficient storage, maintenance, and record-keeping of all Stage Department equipment, and to ensure that backstage areas are kept in an excellent state of cleanliness at all times.
16. In conjunction with the Head of Stage assist in carrying out repairs, alterations and improvements to the stage and workshop.
17. To provide the highest level of customer and audience care at all times.
18. To drive company vehicles as required and to be responsible for booking vehicles and ensuring the Theatre is compliant with University of Derby transport procedures.
19. To act always in the best interests of Derby Theatre, protecting intellectual property and confidential information at all times
20. To carry out any other duties as may reasonably be required from time to time, commensurate with the level of the post
21. This job description is intended as a guide to the nature of the work required of this position and is neither wholly comprehensive nor restrictive.