Head Audio

About The Shed

The Shed is a new cultural institution of and for the 21st century. We produce and welcome innovative art and ideas, across all forms of creativity, to build a shared understanding of our rapidly changing world and a more equitable society. In our highly adaptable building on Manhattan’s west side, The Shed brings together established and emerging artists to create new work in fields ranging from pop to classical music, painting to digital media, theater to literature, and sculpture to dance. We seek opportunities to collaborate with cultural peers and community organizations, work with like-minded partners, and provide unique spaces for private events. As an independent non-profit that values invention, equity, and generosity, we are committed to advancing art forms, addressing the urgent issues of our time, and making our work impactful, sustainable, and relevant to the local community, the cultural sector, New York City, and beyond.

About the Position

The Head Audio will have strong leadership and technical skills, work well under short time constraints, and be able to pivot easily from one task or idea to another. They should be experienced with all aspects of audio production and have an in-depth knowledge of NYC vendors and practices. Theater, music, and event production experience is essential, as is an open, creative approach to the production process. Sensitivity to varying artists’ and clients’ needs and patience amidst changing priorities will help immeasurably in this position. The desire to create a world-class producing venue is key to success in this position.

The Head Audio will report to the Director of Production and will work on theatrical, performative events in The Griffin Theater. The Head Audio will oversee audio operations as it relates to the installation and operation of audio elements. The Head Audio will work closely with the Director of Production, Production Manager, Technical Director, Production Supervisors, other crew heads as well as producers and the creative team to assist in leading the audio process. A flexible schedule is a requirement. Patience and a good-natured attitude will be essential.  

Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to

• The Head Audio is accountable for the implementation, operation, and maintenance of the audio design, as well as leading crew members assigned to audio tasks in load-ins, technical rehearsals, run crews, and load-outs of all theatrical productions. Crew size will vary based on the needs of the project
• Perform and/or supervise all the responsibilities of the audio process
• Represent The Shed to designers, visiting crews, and management staff by creating a cordial, cooperative, and welcoming atmosphere
• Model and support the mission and values of The Shed by working collaboratively with the design and management teams
• Supervise and lead the Audio/Video crew in the installation and operation of the audio design necessary for theatrical productions mounted at The Shed
• Identify and engage crew as approved by management for the filling of work calls
• Program and operate the audio console for all performances, rentals, and events when required
• Attend production meetings and notes sessions as requested by management
• Work with the Production Supervisor to process payroll on a daily or weekly basis
• Maintain a safe working environment in the context of the production’s design
• Alert management of any personnel, technical, or safety issues that may arise at any time and ensure proper safety procedures are adhered to 
• All employees are expected to adhere to all published company policies for The Shed
• Act as production audio on Shed-produced projects as assigned by management

Secondary Responsibilities

• Recommend and evaluate practices, policies, and equipment
• Make recommendations regarding equipment usage and purchases as initiated by management
• Maintain tools, equipment, audio hardware, and expendables
• Be available after hours for phone calls, texts, or emails from management
• The ability to read, evaluate, and implement audio designs from CAD drawings and prints is required
• Ability to work collaboratively with a team and work with a variety of personalities
• Other audio duties as assigned

Qualifications and Qualities

• Strong technical knowledge and experience in theater and concert audio, including power distribution, power tie-ins, speaker system oversight and maintenance, and safe rigging practices
• Experience with CAD programs for analyzing designer drawings is very helpful
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• An extensive network of contacts including vendors supplying the New York market
• Ability to work a flexible schedule as is common in the industry
• Working knowledge and comfort with Microsoft Office Word and Excel
• Proficiency communicating via email and phone
• Knowledge of the Google suite of software
• Demonstrated proficiency coordinating multiple parts of the audio process, including establishing priorities and following through on time
• Ability to remain calm and productive in stressful situations, while demonstrating excellent communication skills
• Strong commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion
• Experience at an arts-producing organization, preferably a nonprofit, is required
• Demonstrated experience programming and operating Yamaha CL5, CL3, and QL1 mixing consoles
• Experience with Dante digital audio and an understanding of audio network topography, communication protocols including MIDI and OSC, and other control integration as it relates to audio systems.
• Experience working with d&b speakers and Array Calc software
• Experience programming and deploying ClearCom systems

Minimum Requirements

• Five years or more of experience as a Head Audio or Assistant Head Audio in professional theater production or a professional theatrical venue
• Able to lift 50 pounds or more occasionally and 25 pounds frequently
• The physical ability to stay on one’s feet (standing, walking) for long days (16 hours), multiple days in a row
• The ability to work a very flexible schedule with extreme hours at times

Compensation

This position is covered under the Shed/IATSE Local One collective bargaining agreement with wages and benefits as outlined by the Agreement. The hourly rate for this position is $49.43.

Application Process

Interested candidates should complete an application and submit résumé and cover letter in a single Word or PDF document saved as candidate's first and last name through our Career Center. Only résumés and cover letters submitted in this format will be reviewed. 

The Shed is dedicated to building an equitable environment that is mixed across lines of difference and strongly encourages applications from Black, Indigenous, people of color, women, transgender, and nonbinary candidates. This position will remain open until filled and until a diverse and qualified pool of candidates is identified. Applicants from populations underrepresented in the arts field are strongly encouraged to apply. Whether you’re new to arts and culture administration, returning to work after a gap in employment, simply looking to transition, or taking the next step in your career path, we will be glad to have you on our radar.