Hiring Notice: Audio Designer - Contract Basis

Job Summary:

The Historic Cocoa Village Playhouse is currently seeking an Audio Designer to design, develop, and operate the audio/sound department for live theatrical productions and performances. The Playhouse is open to candidates who are passionate about sound design/operation for live theatre/orchestra and is currently seeking candidates who can begin work within the next 30 days. 

Serving on a contract basis, this position typically revolves around a two-week design cycle of technical rehearsals followed by four weekends of Broadway on Brevard performances. This position typically will then have a three to four-week break between these cycles. Opportunities to mix and design other shows within our “Spotlight Series”, which include outside artists, may arise. 

The Historic Cocoa Village Playhouse provides affordable community theatre and promotes lifelong education in the performing arts for Brevard County residents and visitors. With its family of local performers and technical staff, the Playhouse’s full line up of Broadway Musicals have earned it the nickname “Broadway on Brevard”.

To be considered for this role you must pass an in-person assessment at The Historic Cocoa Village Playhouse

Responsibilities:

  • Lead the design, development of audio and computer systems to meet the artistic demands and goals of The Playhouse for productions and performances
  • Assemble and coordinate the orchestra pit and stage for performances. Including setting up and tearing down audio gear (speakers, microphones, instruments, etc.)
  • Prepare and implement a build, load-in, and strike schedule for each production
  • Collaborate with the artistic team and other production departments to establish methods for the design, and procurement of all sound elements for Playhouse productions
  • Consult with directors, designers, and production department members on any issues that arise during the production process which pertain to the build, installation, and strike of sound equipment
  • Attend production meetings, production department head meetings, and all staff meetings.
  • Support performers by preparing, placing, and removing microphones for rehearsal and performances
  • Partner with the Music Department of live theatrical productions to ensure quality and design are consistently maintained
  • Troubleshoot and repair sound and audio equipment
  • Prepare mic plots for each show
  • Program microphones into console for each production
    • Mix up to 32 wireless lavalier microphones for productions at The Playhouse
    • Mix up to 22 microphoned musical instruments in a closed orchestra pit environment
  • Perform pre-show microphone checks and make sure all audio equipment is functioning properly
  • Communicate any technical information to shop employees and other departments so the productions can be built and installed in a safe, timely, and resource efficient manner.
  • Proactively plan and foster communication on upcoming shows
  • Able to work in a physically demanding role that requires lifting up to 50 lbs as well as climbing, squatting, and standing for long durations of time within the theatre
  • Flexible with work schedule, including time of day and weekends

Basic Qualifications:

  • Demonstrated experience in designing, live mixing (front of house and monitors), and operating sound for live theatrical performances
  • Experience working and mixing a live orchestra/musicians
  • Demonstrated professional diplomacy in personnel management and designer collaboration
  • Knowledge of professional audio systems (consoles and programs) to implement their use in executing the needs of any given production
  • Knowledge of professional audio systems to implement their use in executing the needs of any given production
  • Knowledge of the process of sound design in theatrical applications to effectively accomplish work
  • Works well under pressure and responds calmly and efficiently to frequent changes during the production and rehearsal process
  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Positive, professional demeanor, and ability to work as part of a team
  • Candidates who are self-motivated, responsible, and have excellent organizational and time management skills
  • Skill and experience in creative problem solving to meet the artistic needs of the show within time and financial requirements
  • Seeking candidates to begin work within the next 30 days

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Knowledge of acoustics and how this relates to the sound design process. Can hear and analyze small differences in audio sources.
  • Proficiency in QLab and Pro Tools
  • Demonstrated experience in preparing budgets and labor estimates to keep projects within an acceptable timeframe, budget, and scope.

Contracted pay to be negotiated based on experience. 

Interested individuals are encouraged to express their interest by emailing NathanielCKQ@gmail.com AND DramaMamaCVP@hotmail.com. Attach a resume if applicable. Please include “Audio Designer” in the subject line.

The Historic Cocoa Village Playhouse, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or any other basis prohibited by federal, state or local law.