The Opportunity
Central Alberta Theatre operates the Red Deer Memorial Centre (a 700-seat roadhouse theatre) and the CAT Studio Theatre (black box) in a shared complex that hosts concerts, dance, theatre, comedy, festivals, lectures, and more.
We are looking for a full-time technical assistant to help with all aspects of running shows and maintaining the venue for the shows.
Reports to: Operations Manager
What You’ll Do (Show-First, Client-Ready Support)
Core responsibilities include:
- Event technical support & show ops: set up, operate, and strike house systems (audio, lighting, basic AV) for rehearsals, performances, and rentals
- Support touring/rental clients: assist with load-in needs, integrate house systems (e.g., PA tie-ins), and respond to technical issues during events (escalate as needed)
- Load-in/load-out + space resets: coordinate safe load-ins, help with stage/FOH setups, and ensure timely resets between bookings
- Safety & equipment care: follow safety requirements and PPE; operate lifts/specialized equipment only when trained/authorized; report hazards or equipment issues promptly
- Back-of-house readiness: keep stage/backstage areas show-ready (quick cleans/resets, dressing room readiness), troubleshoot minor fixes within capability, and support post-event resets
- Professional communication: coordinate with FOH, the Operations Manager, and clients; help improve repeatable delivery by noting recurring issues and supporting SOP/checklist updates
What We’re Looking For
We’re aiming for a qualified, ready-to-go roster, so the strongest applicants will bring hands-on live event/venue experience and calm problem-solving under pressure.
You’re a fit if you have:
- Solid hands-on experience (2-3 years) in live event / technical theatre / venue operations, especially lighting (and working knowledge of audio/video/AV)
- The ability to work independently, take initiative, and communicate clearly during live events
- A safety-first mindset and comfort working in active backstage environments (load-ins, changeovers, quick turnarounds)
- Good physical condition (this role includes lifts, pushes/pulls, and hands-on setup/strike work)
- Valid driver’s licence and reliable transportation (call times aren’t always bus-friendly)
- Availability for irregular, on-call scheduling (days/evenings/weekends depending on show needs). Candidates who are frequently unavailable on short notice or can’t reliably work evenings/weekends should not apply
Assets (nice-to-have):
- Post-secondary training in Technical Theatre or equivalent experience
- Experience supervising/mentoring assistants or local crew
How to Apply
Email [email protected] with:
- A resume
- A brief note including:
- Your primary strengths (sound / lighting / AV / stage)
- Your availability (especially evenings/weekends)
- Any consoles/equipment/software you’re comfortable with operating
- Describe a time you’ve worked on a live event where something went wrong technically and how you handled it.
- Two references
Pay: $17.39-$35.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Company events
- Dental care
- Extended health care
- Flexible schedule
- On-site parking
- Vision care
Work Location: In person
