Production Sound Engineer

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Production Sound Engineer is a member of the sound department who is responsible for aspects of the system design, implementation, and maintenance of the sound systems used for Chicago Shakespeare Theater productions. This role will be hired for specific shows in Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s upcoming season.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

– Drives IDEA to Action platform by engaging in committees, events, training and other initiatives as needed.
– Models CST’s core values of service, ingenuity, and collaboration as well as its customer service ethos.
– Champions the organization’s commitment to a respectful, inclusive and equitable workplace.
– Communicate with CST Production Departments to resolve technical issues, or production needs as necessary.
– In conjunction with the Sound Department Manager and Sound Crew Head, serves as production sound for Production.
– Design, Install, maintain production audio systems, for show in the 500-seat Courtyard Theater or the 200-seat Studio Theater or the 800 seat Yard Theater.
– Interface with building-wide page/program audio monitoring systems for show.
– Maintain backstage communication systems (Clearcom) for show.
– Collaborate effectively with designers, CST staff and other stakeholders to achieve the creative vision for produced and presented work.
– Manage overhire sound crews for load in, notes, and strike calls.
– Attend production meetings, technical rehearsals and previews as required by Sound Department Manager.
– Collaborate with other production department heads in support of cross-departmental elements of each production.
– Maintain a thorough understanding of industry trends and best practices in the areas of production audio.
– Adhere to and enforce CST health and safety protocols by training employees on safety protocols, providing necessary safety equipment, reporting incidents, monitoring evolving safety practices, and advising on adjustments to policy. 

COMPENTENCIES

– Service, ingenuity, and collaboration
– Emotional intelligence
– Mission-driven
– Project management.
– Superior communication skills in English.
– Expert knowledge of Yamaha console line, DiGiCo console line, Yamaha DME infrastructure, Q-sys, DANTE I/O protocols, Aviom monitoring systems, Clear-Com/Freespeak communications systems, Shure wireless equipment, IT Network equipment and protocols, KVM infrastructure.
– Detailed knowledge of radio frequency coordination for production audio equipment.
– Detailed knowledge of QLab, Vectorworks, Compass, MAPP, R1, ArrayCalc,Wireless Workbench, DiGiCo T, EHX, Controlspace, MainStage,  Abelton software.
– Familiarity with Show control protocols including MIDI MSC, OSC IT networking standards.
– An understanding of industry-standard rigging principles and practices as they relate to audio equipment.
– Knowledge of safe work practices related to working at heights, including implementation of fall protection standards.
– Demonstrated superior ability to successfully lead, delegate and effectively manage personnel.
– Demonstrated track record of successful artistic collaboration with multiple departments and disciplines.
– Working knowledge of Microsoft Office and Google Suite products. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT

– Work hours will be variable depending on the phase of the project.
– Evening and weekend hours will be necessary.
– Primary work location will take place at the CST facilities on Navy Pier in Chicago, IL.,
– Will regularly be required to wear PPE during work activities.
– Will frequently work in in low-light environments.

PHYSICAL DEMAND

– Perform a variety of physical tasks including but not limited to climbing, stooping, pushing, bending, kneeling, reaching, lifting, and pulling.
– Work at height in locations including but not limited to catwalks, grids, ladders, and genies.
– Perform a variety of physical tasks while wearing safety equipment including but not limited to harness, hardhat, and safety glasses.
– Working with others in the pushing, pulling, lifting, or moving of objects up to 50 lbs.
– Use of manual dexterity in the operation of tools, computers, and equipment.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Minimum of 4 years of professional theatrical or live-event sound experience with significant sound system design and crew management experience, preferably in a regional theater or commercial producing environment.   

DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION STATEMENT

CST is dedicated to increasing equity, diversity and inclusion in our audiences, our programs and in all our hiring for staff and artists,. We are committed to providing a work environment that is free from discrimination. CST prohibits discrimination in employment against any employee or job applicant because of that person’s race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, sex, national origin, disability, genetic information, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, veteran status, status with regard to public assistance, membership in a local human rights commission or any other legally protected status.