What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lead Pyrotechnician position at Image Engineering?
Description
The Lead Pyrotechnician is responsible for leading the safe and successful preparation, execution, and strike of pyrotechnic and special effects productions in live event environments. This position serves as the primary onsite technical leader for pyrotechnic operations and is responsible for ensuring all work is performed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with company procedures, project requirements, permits, and applicable regulatory standards.
The Lead Pyrotechnician will direct and mentor field technicians, coordinate with Producers, Technical Directors, venues, production partners, and regulatory authorities, and make real-time decisions to ensure successful execution. The ideal candidate combines extensive pyrotechnic experience with strong leadership, technical, communication, and problem-solving skills and maintains safety as the first priority in every aspect of the job.
Key Responsibilities
Pyrotechnics & Technical Operations
- Lead the preparation, setup, operation, and strike of pyrotechnic and special effects systems for live events.
- Serve as the primary technical lead for assigned pyrotechnic productions, including proximate pyrotechnics and large-scale aerial fireworks displays.
- Operate and troubleshoot pyrotechnic firing and control systems, including FireOne and related systems.
- Demonstrate a strong understanding of electrical wiring, data flow, firing systems, electronics, and related technical equipment.
- Review event plots, production documents, firing plans, and technical requirements to ensure accurate and safe execution.
- Inspect equipment and systems prior to use and identify and resolve technical issues before and during events.
- Cross-train in additional special effects disciplines and develop knowledge of emerging technologies and production practices.
Safety & Compliance
- Maintain safety as the highest priority throughout all phases of production.
- Conduct pre-show safety inspections, risk assessments, and environmental condition checks, including wind conditions, clearances, and safety boundaries.
- Monitor work areas and immediately address or stop unsafe activities or conditions.
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, permits, company policies, and applicable OSHA, ATF, and NFPA requirements.
- Maintain a comprehensive understanding of NFPA 1123 and NFPA 1126 as applicable to assigned productions.
- Support the secure receiving, transportation, inventory, storage, handling, and disposal of professional-grade pyrotechnic materials and hazardous materials in accordance with applicable requirements.
- Maintain required licenses, certifications, and company compliance training.
- Participate in incident reporting, corrective actions, and post-event reviews when required.
Crew Leadership & Training
- Lead and direct field technicians throughout load-in, setup, rehearsal, show execution, and strike.
- Delegate work assignments and oversee onsite workflow to ensure efficient and safe operations.
- Train, mentor, and provide technical guidance to junior technicians and crew members.
- Promote strong safety practices and operational standards across the field team.
- Communicate clearly and confidently with technicians, Producers, Technical Directors, venue personnel, fire marshals, and other production partners.
- Troubleshoot onsite issues collaboratively and make sound decisions under pressure.
Equipment & Logistics
- Prepare, inspect, pack, load, transport, and unload equipment and materials for assigned events.
- Verify equipment against pack lists and confirm equipment is in safe and operational condition.
- Assist with warehouse preparation and equipment organization as needed.
- Drive company-owned vehicles to and from event locations as required.
- Operate forklifts and other equipment as needed; forklift certification is preferred or must be obtained.
- Maintain accurate equipment and production documentation.
Requirements
- Must be at least 21 years of age and able to pass an ATF background check.
- Minimum of 3–5 years of hands-on experience in professional pyrotechnics, including proximate pyrotechnics and/or large-scale aerial fireworks.
- Proven experience serving as a crew lead, lead shooter, technical supervisor, or similar leadership role.
- Valid Maryland or applicable regional pyrotechnician/operator license, or the ability to obtain required licenses.
- Experience with FireOne or comparable pyrotechnic firing systems.
- Strong understanding of pyrotechnic safety practices, electrical systems, wiring, electronics, and firing/control systems.
- Working knowledge of NFPA 1123 and NFPA 1126.
- Ability to obtain and maintain pyrotechnic operator licenses in multiple jurisdictions as required.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to safely work with tools, wiring, electronics, and technical equipment.
- Ability to read and understand event plots, production documents, and technical plans.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to communicate effectively and lead crews in high-stress, fast-paced environments.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a production team.
- Valid U.S. driver's license with a clean driving record required.
- CDL with Hazmat endorsement is highly preferred.
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Ability to complete and maintain all required OSHA and company compliance training.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended hours as required by event schedules.
- Ability to travel for local, regional, and national events, including occasional overnight stays.
- Ability to work outdoors and in varying weather conditions.
- Ability to safely climb ladders and work from elevated positions and aerial lifts.
- Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull equipment and materials associated with live event production.
- Ability to stand, walk, and work on-site for extended periods.
- Ability to work in loud, crowded, and fast-paced live event environments.
- Ability to operate forklifts and other material-handling equipment after appropriate training and certification.
Company Benefits
- Aetna Health, Dental, & Vision Insurance
- Flexible Time Off Program
- Paid Holidays
- John Hancock 401(k) Retirement Plan
- Company-Paid Life Insurance
- Aflac Supplemental Insurance
- Robust Employee Assistance Program
- Dependent Care FSA Program
- ...and more!
Position Type / Expected Hours of Work
This is a full or part-time position based at our Baltimore, MD headquarters. Regular office and warehouse hours are Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Working evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended hours will be required as needed to support live event productions and busy seasons.
Travel
Local, regional, and national travel is required. Overnight travel may be required depending on project and event schedules. Travel requirements will vary based on assigned projects.