Senior Show Automation Technician

Sight & Sound is an organization comprised of people with diverse talents coming together as one in Christ to tell His story through who we are and what we do.  We foster a culture of love for God and love for others, trust and teamwork, and a collaborative environment in which we get to do our best work every day.

The Senior Show Automation Technician is a senior-level technical expert responsible for supporting, operating, troubleshooting, and maintaining complex automation, rigging, media, network, communication, electrical (both low and high voltage), and special effects systems within a fast-paced live performance environment. While reporting to a common department supervisor and operating under the guidance of a designated team Lead, they bring deep industry experience and demonstrate exceptional independence and judgement during shows. This technician leads by example, providing advanced troubleshooting, mentoring junior technicians, collaborating across departments, and executing intricate cue sequences with precision and safety. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Monitor, maintain, and troubleshoot a wide range of show-critical systems including media servers, pyrotechnic devices, atmospheric and fog effects, and wired/wireless communication systems (e.g., Riedel), ensuring their reliable and safe operation throughout performances, rehearsals and more.
• Serve as one of the primary operators for automation consoles (e.g., Raynok) during live performances, rehearsals, and other technical runs.
• Execute advanced automation cues with consistency, precision, and safety, including complex flight, vehicle, and scenic movements.
• Lead real-time troubleshooting and system recovery during live shows to minimize downtime and ensure show continuity.
• Maintain strong situational awareness and communicate clearly with Team Lead, Stage Management, Deck Chief, and other departments to resolve technical issues and maintain cue integrity.

Technical Expertise 

• Provide expert-level diagnostics and repair of complex electronic, mechanical, projection, automation, special effects, communication systems, and low/high-voltage electrical systems.
• Interpret schematics, wiring diagrams, and system documentation to conduct advanced troubleshooting and root-cause analysis.
• Development and maintenance of robust preventive maintenance schedules and documentation for all show-related equipment and software.
• Mentor entry-level and mid-level automation technicians, supporting skill development and training initiatives.
• Collaborate across all in-department disciplines—including rigging, automation, media, projection, special effects, communications, and both low and high-voltage electrical systems—to ensure seamless integration and operation of all systems involved in show execution.

Systems Development & Integration 

• Support the installation and integration of new automation systems—including configuration of PLCs, motor controllers, sensors, and safety systems—while working in collaboration with system designers. This role does not include system design responsibilities.
• Collaborate with engineering and creative teams to support R&D and implementation of new technologies and effects.
• Write, maintain, and document automation show control code, scripts, and macros to support evolving show needs (e.g., Lua, Python, or system-specific scripting).
• Support and assist with the setup, maintenance, and troubleshooting of networking and computer systems including the use of VLANs to support and isolate subnetworks for automation, media, lighting, and other show systems, under the direction of system designers or IT specialists.

Rigging & Safety 

• Maintain proficiency in theatrical and arena rigging systems including chain motors, fall arrest systems, wire rope terminations, and performer flying systems.
• Respond to rigging-related issues that arise during performances and rehearsals, using strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills to ensure safety, restore function, and maintain show integrity.
• Support or lead rescue and emergency response procedures when working at height or with performer flying systems.

Documentation & Communication 

• Author and maintain detailed cue sheets, system diagrams, maintenance logs, and technical troubleshooting guides.
• Communicate effectively with all show departments, ensuring clarity, consistency, and professionalism under pressure.
• Attend pre-show and post-show briefings and contribute to incident reports when appropriate, depending on operational needs and the direction of the team lead or supervisor.

Prerequisites: 

• 10 years of experience in live entertainment or theatrical technical production, with at least 5 years in automation or show control-specific roles.
• Proven expertise with automation systems including Raynok, Navigator, or similar motion control platforms.
• Advanced knowledge of electronic systems, mechatronics, and troubleshooting methodology.
• Strong hands-on experience with rigging systems and safety procedures.
• Working proficiency in computer programming/scripting (e.g., Lua, Python, C ) for show control applications.
• Solid understanding of networked control systems, IP-based protocols, and hardware/software integration.
• Strong interpersonal communication skills and ability to remain calm, focused, and professional in high-pressure situations.
• Willingness to work flexible schedules including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Preferred Qualifications 

• ETCP Rigging Certification (Theatre or Arena)
• OSHA-30 General Entertainment Safety Card
• Experience with video/media server control (e.g., Disguise, Watchout)
• Experience with PLCs, motor drives, and industrial automation components

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.