Are you experienced in theatre automation, stage engineering, rigging, flying and electrical and mechanical show control systems? Can you fault find and rectify problems in electrical, mechanical and show control systems? Do you have experience using Stage Technologies/Tait systems?

We are looking for an experienced Head of Automation with specialist skills and supervisory responsibility, to manage the Automation Department for the 2024 transfer of "A Midsummer Night's Dream" to the Barbican Theatre.

Reporting to the Head of RSC Automation, some of your duties and responsibilities will include (please see the full job description and person specification for the comprehensive list):
• To assist in the effective day-to-day running of the Automation department, helping to ensure that the highest possible standards are maintained within budgetary and technical constraints.
• To manage and administer a programme of planned preventative maintenance and monitoring, including first line fault-finding and repair, and to assist with broader maintenance issues.
• To manage and administer the upkeep and archiving of such records as are mandatory to comply with regulatory bodies and insurance companies.
• To establish a close working relationship with Stage Management, other Senior Automation Staff, Senior Managers, Production Managers, Senior Technicians, and other staff, and understand the parameters of departmental responsibility.

To be suitable for this role, it is essential that you have the following knowledge and experience:
• Experience of taking the lead role in the management of the automation requirements of a new production.
• A good knowledge of the specification, setting up and operation of electrical and electronic control systems both as stand-alone and for integration into existing systems.
• A good knowledge and understanding of industry standard electrical and electronic control systems, as used in theatrical automation applications.
• The ability to fault find and rectify problems in electrical and electronic control systems.
• A good knowledge and awareness of Health and Safety legislation and procedures and its implications both on work colleagues and within the stage environment.
• A good knowledge and understanding of theatre staging, stage engineering, rigging, slinging, and flying.

This opportunity is offered as a full time, 3-month fixed term contract, working an average hour's contract of 48 hours per week, over 6 days, including evening and weekend work. The role will be based at the Barbican Theatre.


The RSC strives for excellence, and values creativity, inclusivity, sustainability, collaboration, and accountability.

We can offer great benefits and aim to create a welcoming, supportive environment which is happy, healthy and safe. We place great importance upon developing a diverse, highly motivated and energised workforce to help achieve our priorities. We put our values at the heart of everything we do.

We are committed to building a diverse workforce and welcome applications from all individuals.

The Royal Shakespeare Company (no. 212481) is a registered charity.