Head Electrician

The Public Theater seeks a skilled and experienced Head Electrician to join our Production team. This position serves as the Production Electrician for all Public Theater performances across our multi-theater complex, ensuring the safe and effective implementation of lighting designs for productions and events. The Head Electrician will supervise all lighting operations during load-ins, load-outs, changeovers, and technical/preview rehearsals, and will occasionally run shows as required.

This position is covered under an IATSE, Local No. One collective bargaining agreement.

Key Responsibilities

· Serve as Production Electrician for all performances across The Public’s theaters, collaborating closely with designers, department heads, and production staff to implement and maintain lighting designs.

· Supervise and coordinate lighting load-ins, hang and focus sessions, notes, strikes, and changeovers.

· Operate lighting control consoles (ETC Eos family and others as applicable) for performances and events when required.

· Lead and manage lighting crew members in compliance with IATSE standards and safety protocols.

· Maintain and oversee the upkeep, inventory, and repair of lighting equipment, cables, fixtures, dimming systems, control systems, and related infrastructure across all spaces.

· Collaborate with the Audio/Lighting Supervisor to plan and schedule work efficiently and effectively.

· Assist with budget tracking, labor forecasting, payroll, and materials management related to production and event needs.

· Ensure a safe working environment and enforce safety protocols for all lighting operations including but limited to ensuring that all lighting systems are safe, code-compliant, and operational for performances and events.

· Support special events, and other Public Theater programming as assigned.

· Maintain clear documentation of lighting plots, circuiting, patch, and other show paperwork. Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by the production schedule

· Provide mentorship and guidance to overhire crew and apprentices.

Qualifications

· Minimum 5 years of professional experience in theatrical lighting production, preferably in a multi-venue or repertory environment.

· Proficiency with ETC Eos family consoles and other modern lighting control systems.

· Strong understanding of current theatrical lighting technology, including LED fixtures, moving lights, networking, and power distribution.

· Ability to read and interpret lighting plots, schematics, and technical drawings.

· Strong leadership and crew management skills, with the ability to mentor and motivate teams.

· Ability to work safely at heights, climbing in harness, on ladders, and in lifts.

· Familiarity with New York City electrical codes and theater safety standards.

· Flexible schedule with availability for nights, weekends, and holidays as required by production needs.

· Commitment to fostering an inclusive and respectful work environment aligned with The Public Theater’s values of equity and diversity.

Working Conditions:

· Work is primarily performed in theater spaces on and off stage.

· Ability to lift up to 50 pounds, climb ladders, and work at heights or on scaffolding.

· Evening and weekend hours may be required based on production needs.

This is a non-exempt position, according to the Fair Labor Standards Act.

Position is available immediately.

The Public is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Applicants from populations underrepresented in the theater field are strongly encouraged to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, familial status, sexual orientation, national origin, ability, age, or veteran status.