Temporary Props Artisan

Job Description:

The Props Artisan at the Boston Conservatory at Berklee (BCB) provides critical props management and care for BCB productions including musicals, operas, plays, etc. The Props Artisan manages the Conservatory’s props and furniture stock, constructs furniture and large props in consultation with technical direction, and purchases materials and prop items.
Under the department of Performance Services, the Props Artisan reports to the Technical Director (Mainstage Theater), and collaborates closely with the full production team, with the deans and chairs of Theater, Dance and Music, and with guest directors and designers. The Props Artisan may supervise production technician assistants and student workers, in addition to providing support for any temporary props managers hired based upon production needs.
This a part-time, non-exempt position that is expected to work an average of 25 hours per week during the academic year (late August to mid-May), with minimal hours during the academic summer months. Nights and weekends will be required, and specific schedules will be discussed and agreed upon with the supervisor.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Procure, build, and realize all props, furniture, and set dressing for BCB productions across Theater, Dance, and Music Divisions, with a focus on Mainstage and curricular Zack Box performances
• Design and maintain comprehensive documentation, tracking processes, and communications around props stock, purchases, repairs, and opportunities
• Ensure all rehearsal props are prepared, in good condition, and delivered to stage management prior to staging rehearsals
• Initiate and maintain extensive props paperwork for productions in coordination with stage management
• Coordinate props meetings with directors, stage managers, and designers as needed
• Coordinate transportation to and from off-site props storage as needed, as well as additional transportation to pick up and return rented or newly purchased items
• Oversee properties budget for specific productions, including purchases and rentals of materials, specific items, furniture, set dressing, and other items as needed. Ensure productions are achievable within budget, and reconcile all purchases, reimbursements, and/or invoices as needed. 
• Coordinate shop time or other resources for builds with Technical Director as needed
• Attend rehearsals, including technical and dress rehearsals, as needed to support the productions
• Schedule, train and supervise additional production technicians and student workers as necessary
• Ensure clear and maintained organization of props storage areas  
• Provide guidance and support regarding props and furniture for curricular and non- curricular performances in the Zack Box space 
• Ensure performers, staff, and any person handling prop weapons is aware of and follows all prop safety/weapons policies

MINIMUM JOB QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience. A degree in Theater or related field is preferred
• Two or more years experience working as a props manager, artistisan, and/or designer in a professional theater or other arts environment 
• Experience working with college students in a professional capacity

KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED:

• Working knowledge of standard theatrical practices and procedures
• General knowledge of theater, musical theater, and/or opera production needs

SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED: 

• Creative skills necessary
• Proficiency in use of hand and power tools, craft work, painting, sewing, upholstery, and any other props-related trades 
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office, Google Suite and Dropbox for record-keeping and communications
• Valid MA driver’s license and clean driving record preferred

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Occasional supervision of Production Technician assistants
• Minimal training and supervision of student workers and backstage crew during rehearsal process
• Regular supervision of student labor force for maintaining props storage

WORK ENVIRONMENT: 

• Indoor environments, some with low light: stages, backstage areas, dressing rooms, costume shop, props storage, office spaces
• Some travel to off-campus storage and other locations; a valid driver’s license is preferred

SPECIAL WORKING CONDITIONS, PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS, ETC:

• Seated and standing positions
• Stairs, ladders
• Reaching up to shelves
• Occasional nights and weekends

Hiring Range: $26-$28 per hour; salary dependent on relevant experience and education.

This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” employment relationship.

 

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Equal Employment Opportunity at Berklee: 

We support an inclusive workplace where everyone excels based on personal merit, qualifications, experience, ability, and job performance.  Berklee affirms that inequality is detrimental to our faculty, staff, students, and the communities we serve. Our goal is to make lasting change through our actions. Berklee is committed to providing fair and equitable consideration of all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, ancestry, age, national origin, place of birth, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, genetic information, or status as a member of the armed forces or veteran of the armed forces, or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law.

As part of this commitment, Berklee will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact the Human Resources Team at [email protected] or call 617-747-2375.

*Currently enrolled Berklee students are not permitted to apply for staff or faculty positions.*

Employee Type:Temporary (Fixed Term)