Automation Supervisor

You will lead on the planning, operation and maintenance of the Glyndebourne automation systems to support the productions of the Company. In particular, to be responsible for programming and troubleshooting of the computer and electronics-based systems, the planning and oversight of all flown and non-flown automation elements and the integration of those effects into new Productions and Revivals.

Key Tasks and Responsibilities 

• To lead, along with the other supervisors on the planning, operation and maintenance of all stage related automated equipment.
• To assist Production managers and other technical staff in finding automation solutions for production design requirements.
• To lead on at least two Festival shows with regard to  planning, installation and operation of automated equipment on those shows.
• To lead, along with the other supervisors on the planning and allocation of all flown items on a seasonal basis.
• To lead, along with the other supervisors on any manually operated flying, including the planning for tours and hires.
• To lead, along with the other supervisors on the planning and allocation of stage winches, traps and other stage-based automation on a seasonal basis.
• To lead, along with the other supervisors on the integration of existing automated elements of existing repertoire shows into the new system, including revolves, traps, hydraulics, pneumatics and I/O effects. 
• To lead, along with the other supervisors on the programming protocols and ensure a unified approach to how we use the automation desk.
• To be the main point of contact, along with the other supervisors with TAIT and have a good understanding of fault finding and troubleshooting.
• To act as duty automation supervisor when required
• To operate automation during shows, changeovers when required.
• To maintain, inspect and troubleshoot automation equipment.
• To assist with the LOLER and PUWER inspections of stage machinery and equipment.
• To ensure best practice regarding use of harnesses and working at height.
• To cooperate with other departments in relation to their needs regarding automation and other effects.
• To assist with the planning of stage effects for touring and hire Productions.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• Experience of programming and running of automation on a variety of theatrical shows.
• Substantial flying experience
• Experience of inspection and use of rigging equipment
• Extensive knowledge of automation systems and SOP’s in other theatres.
• Electrical/Electronic knowledge
• Mechanical/stage engineering knowledge
• Solid supervisory and team leadership skills and experience; demonstrable ability to work effectively alone or as part of a team
• Ability to communicate effectively and sensitively with colleagues and staff at all level
• Excellent knowledge and practical experience of safe working practice within a theatrical environment
• Experience writing Risk Assessments and Method Statements
• Working knowledge of Health and Safety legislation and regulations
• To be able to complete manual handling

• Knowledge of IQ and/or  ‘Navigator’ based automation systems
• Industry certifications in Working at Height, Health and Safety and /or Electrical standards

Special Requirements

• To travel, when required, on Glyndebourne business

Salary and Benefits

You will be required to work an average of no more than 48 hours per week, including weekends.

We can offer a highly competitive salary. For further information regarding Rates of Pay and Hours of Work please contact Adam Harvey- Head of Stage, adam.harvey@glyndebourne.com

We offer 6.6 weeks holiday per year including public holidays.

We can offer a beautiful working environment, and the chance to see world-class opera.  For those without their own transport we have a free minibus service to and from Lewes railway station.

We also offer :

• Free Pilates and Zumba classes, once a week
• Corporate Gym memberships
• An onsite Physiotherapist
• Subsidised electric car charging
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Subsidised dining at our onsite restaurants
• Free tea and coffee
• Discount at the Glyndebourne shop
• Free on-site parking
• Free minibus service to and from Lewes train station and Ringmer
• Discount at various highstreet retailers through the Glyndebourne benefits hub

How to Apply

Glyndebourne is an Equal Opportunities Employer and a Registered Charity. We promote equality, diversity and inclusion in our workplace and actively encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply for vacancies, including ethnically diverse and disabled candidates, who are currently under-represented in our workforce.

To help us monitor the effectiveness of our commitment to diversity and inclusion and our supporting policies and procedures, we ask all job applicants to complete our anonymized and confidential Equal Opportunities monitoring form .

Please then apply by e-mail, sending your CV and covering letter to recruitment@glyndebourne.com.

The closing date for applications is Friday 28 February 2025

As a Disability Confident Employer, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for our vacancies. If relevant to you, please inform us of this in your covering letter. If you have any questions in relation to this or if you would like this advert sent to you in a larger or dyslexia friendly font then please contact a member of the HR team at recruitment@glyndebourne.com.

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