Head Mechinist

Bell Shakespeare is looking for an experienced Head Mechanist, responsible for the touring, delivery and maintenance of our production.

Head Mechanist Sydney Based Seasonal

Bell Shakespeare is Australia’s national Shakespeare company. We are seeking an experienced Head Mechanist to join the Company’s Mainstage team in 2026 at one of the most exciting times in the Company’s history. This position is responsible for the touring, delivery and maintenance of the staging elements of the performance. The successful candidate will be an approachable, relaxed and friendly team player keen to join a professional team to undertake a challenging but rewarding tour.

The role of Head Mechanist is a contracted for the following period of employment;

• Monday 11th May – 14th June – Sydney
• Saturday 18th July – Saturday 25th July – Transfer to Art Centre Melbourne
• Sunday 9th August – Wednesday 12th August – Bump out Melbourne/return to Sydney.

The Head Mechanist will provide support and advice to the Production Manager in the planning, creation and drawing of plans to provide to venues, maintenance and performance of the production relating to staging and scenery elements, as well as performing a leadership role, ensuring the delivery of performances and installation of staging and scenery elements in a range of venues across Australia. As a key company representative, the Head Mechanist should have a passion for working with, educating and inspiring crews across the country.  

About you:

The successful applicant will be an active participant in pre-production planning, rehearsal activity, bump in, season support, bump out. This includes co-ordination and delivery of production related resources, supervision and direction of venue crews, working closely with creative teams, and maintaining accurate records and documentation within the production environment.

As part of the Bell Shakespeare team, you will

• Work in an inclusive and supportive environment
• Receive ongoing professional development and training
• Receive complimentary tickets to Bell Shakespeare productions
• Have the opportunity to work at major performing arts venues including Neilson Nutshell, Arts Centre Melbourne

To be considered as a successful applicant we require:

Essential criteria

• Minimum of five years industry experience in theatrical production
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience touring ideally with regional touring experience
• Knowledge and experience in theatre production techniques
• An understanding of the artistic process and the ability to work with creative teams
• Proven ability to work in a team environment whilst also able to work autonomously
• Flexible attitude to duties, responsibilities and working hours within the skill set of the position
• Ability to create and interpret technical Drawings using Cad (vectorworks) software
• High level computer skills, particularly using spreadsheets and word processing software
• Excellent problem solving and communication skills
• Ability to keep detailed written and electronic records
• Be able to tour for extended lengths of time
• Must hold a current driver’s licence
• Be an Australian Citizen or hold permanent residency

Desirable skills

• Dogging and/or Rigger’s certification
• Tertiary qualifications in arts, arts management and/or theatre technical and production fields
• Knowledge of Workplace Health & Safety requirements in a production environment
• Experience in using tools and machinery
• Forklift licence

Application:

If you are interested in the role, please send through your CV and a cover letter for the attention of:

Benjamin HowlettHead of [email protected]

Download the position description here

Bell Shakespeare is an Equal Opportunity employer. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disability, and culturally and linguistically diverse applicants are encouraged to apply for this position.

Applications will close at 5pm on 11th January.