What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lead Production Technician position at Cordish Companies?
Lead Production Technician
Location: Kansas City, MO (District / Event-Based)
Position Summary: The Lead Production Technician is a hands-on, show-level technical leader responsible for audio, lighting, and on-site production execution across a high-volume live events environment. This role serves as the primary in-house technical owner for all events, ensuring consistent, high-quality execution while reducing reliance on third-party production labor.
The Lead Production Technician is a working technician who mixes audio, operates lighting, and leads on-site technical execution in collaboration with the events and operations teams.
Key Responsibilities
Show Execution & Technical Operations
- Serve as the primary technical lead for live events, including public programming, private events, festivals, and recurring concert series
- Mix live audio (FOH) for bands, DJs, speakers, and programmed events
- Program, operate, and maintain lighting systems for live performances and special events
- Execute show cues, transitions, and run-of-show elements in coordination with the Events Manager and Event Operations Manager
- Lead load-in, setup, soundcheck, show operation, and strike for assigned events
Equipment & Systems
- Operate and maintain in-house audio, lighting, and basic video systems
- Troubleshoot technical issues in real time during live events
- Assist with preventative maintenance, organization, and readiness of production equipment
- Communicate system limitations or technical needs during event planning phases
Team & Vendor Collaboration
- Work closely with the Event Operations Manager on day-of execution and technical logistics
- Support the Events Manager during planning by providing technical input and feasibility guidance
- Coordinate with third-party production vendors when supplemental labor or specialty support is required
- Serve as the primary point of contact for visiting technicians on applicable events
Standards & Consistency
- Help establish and maintain consistent production standards across events
- Ensure safe and professional technical practices at all times
- Contribute to post-event debriefs and continuous improvement discussions
Qualifications
Required
- 5 years of hands-on live event production experience
- Strong proficiency in live audio mixing for bands, DJs, and spoken-word events
- Working knowledge of lighting programming and operation for live entertainment
- Experience operating shows in fast-paced, public-facing environments
- Strong troubleshooting skills under live-event pressure
- Clear communication skills and ability to work collaboratively across departments
Preferred
- Experience in outdoor venues, festivals, or entertainment districts
- Familiarity with permanent-installed AV systems
- Basic knowledge of video playback, signal flow, and show control
- Experience leading or mentoring other technicians
Work Environment & Schedule
- This role is primarily event-based and will require nights, weekends, and holidays
- Schedule will flex based on event volume and seasonality
- Physical requirements include lifting equipment, standing for extended periods, and working outdoors in varying weather conditions