Overview

Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) is a multi-disciplinary arts center located in Brooklyn, New York. For more than 150 years, BAM has been the home for adventurous artists, audiences, and ideas—engaging both global and local communities. With world-renowned programming in theater, dance, music, opera, film, and much more, BAM showcases the work of emerging artists and innovative modern masters.

Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) is seeking two Head Carpenters, one to work in our Opera House, the other in our Harvey Theater. The successful candidate for both houses will be an exceptional leader that is able to work successfully with other members of a large team. These positions require a strong work ethic and significant theatrical experience in both carpentry and rigging to support BAM’s presented and produced works. This position requires excellent communication to work successfully with other members of the crew, Production staff and visiting companies.

This position’s contracted work begins September 2, 2025.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Collaborate with all theatrical departments and production management to support artists and companies in presenting cutting-edge, internationally renowned performances and art.
  • Responsible for performing and supervising carpentry and rigging department operations and maintenance in the Opera House and/or Harvey Theater as a working member of the crew.
  • Lead, assign and supervise carpentry and rigging crews performing diverse tasks while simultaneously performing his/her own work assignments.
  • Load in, set up, manage all carpentry and rigging materials for performances and rehearsals.
  • Identify crewing needs for productions, events and maintenance in conjunction with BAM Production Staff and the Crew Chief. Evaluate potential crew qualifications and ensure crew members are qualified and match their competencies to position requirements.
  • Work with Crew Chief and BAM Production Staff to ensure the crew consists of a diverse and equitable workforce
  • Enforce standards of operation in carpentry and rigging that are safe for both personnel and equipment.
  • Collaborate with BAM and Visiting Company Production Staff with advance planning for shows and events by reviewing and interpreting ground plans, rigging plans, technical information, cue lists and more.
  • Create all necessary paperwork based on above information including equipment purchases, running lists and expendables.
  • Represent the Carpentry Department in production meetings.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • 7 years’ experience in carpentry and rigging related stage work
  • Advanced knowledge of theatrical and scenic carpentry, including the ability to interpret and read technical drawings and designs, and to create and execute the plan to install, operate, maintain and strike said scenery.
  • Advanced knowledge of theatrical and arena rigging, including the ability to troubleshoot and operate show motors, hoists, show motion control and other equipment
  • Work will at times require working irregular hours and standing for extended periods of time while lifting and carrying equipment onstage. It will occasionally require pushing heavy weights or lifting and carrying weights up to 50 pounds with team assistance.
  • ETCP Entertainment Theater and Arena Rigging Certification within 364 days of hire date. This certification must be kept up to date.
  • Knowledge or expertise with Autocad and/or Vectorworks a plus
  • Union Affiliation: If not currently a member, the successful candidate will be required to join IATSE Local 4

Compensation: Salary and Benefits will be provided per the IATSE Local 4 CBA (union) specifications, including:

  • Commitment of 40 consecutive weeks with 40 hours per week
  • Hourly rate of $56.08 with significant additional OT
  • Fully funded Local 4 Healthcare Days
  • Paid Vacation per CBA
  • Contributions to Local 4 Pension and Annuity
  • Perks include comp tickets, neighborhood discounts and more

Working Conditions: Medium Work (Category 4):

Work will at times require working irregular hours and standing for extended periods of time while lifting and carrying equipment onstage. It will occasionally require pushing heavy weights or lifting and carrying weights up to 50 pounds with team assistance.

Application Instructions: Must complete an online application through BAM’s website – no phone calls, emails or walk-ins, please.

Brooklyn Academy of Music is an Equal Opportunity Employer. BAM recognizes that historic institutional practices lead to a non-inclusive environment and is working to address diversity and inclusion in all forms. Individuals in BAM are experiencing their own pace during this process, which is not uncommon when addressing power and privilege. The Production department supports and continues to take part in this process.

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