JOB DESCRIPTION 1. JOB TITLE: Technician (Performing Arts) 2. ROLE CODE: FINTEC02 3. REFERENCE: HRMS/13254 4. DEPARTMENT: Department of Performing Arts, Faculty of Arts and Media 5. ORGANISATION CHART: 6. JOB PURPOSE: To support the delivery of modules in the Department of Performing Arts. To ensure smooth technical delivery of staff and student directed production work both for assessment/examination and other events within the public domain. To liaise with and assist visiting professional performance companies. To ensure maintenance of the range of technical equipment associated with performance lighting, sound reinforcement, computer hardware and software as well as other performing arts related technologies. To undertake and/or supervise the rigging and de-rigging of technical equipment in accordance with health and safety guidelines. To operate technical equipment for performance and assessment. To deliver instruction and information sessions.
To respond to appropriate requests from staff and students in line with the job role, in order to ensure the smooth and efficient running of the Performing Arts Department. This will include: Any duties required in relation to setting up AV facilities for classroom based lecturers and setting up equipment and resources for more complex, practical lessons in theatres/studios in line with the requirements of the member of academic staff; Event preparation: this will include any duties required in relation to setting up classroom based activities and for more complex, practical lessons in other spaces (e.g. lighting rigging, specific equipment for practical arts session etc) and large scale exhibition/shows that are produced by students, staff and external organisations; Procurement advice, equipment maintenance, review and Health and Safety: including identifying resource requirements, recommending purchasing options, tendering and costing; storage and maintenance of stock items and existing equipment and responsibility for health and safety matters in relation to facilities, equipment and materials; Demonstration and training: to provide technical demonstration, support and guidance with regard to departmental facilities, equipment and materials, via both conventional in-situ demonstration/instruction and printed & web-based documentation for both staff and students as requested by academic staff or directed by the Head/ Deputy Head of Department. 7. BACKGROUND INFORMATION: The Department is dynamic and future-focussed, with excellent, energetic and caring staff, an innovative curriculum and diverse research interests. Our students are our raison d être, and they benefit enormously from the collective expertise in the Department. The Department consists of the Head of Department, Deputy Head of Department, three professorial staff, fifteen academic staff (including two post-doctoral Research Fellows), three Visiting Professors, a number of Visiting Lecturers, three Technicians and the Departmental Administrator. Work in Drama is long established at Chester, with Dance launched in 1995 and Popular Music in 2004. At undergraduate level there are programmes in Dance, Drama and Theatre Studies, Performing Arts and Popular Music Performance which are mirrored in the postgraduate provision with MAs in Dance, Drama and Popular Music. There is also an MRes and a small group of PhD students covering subject areas across all the disciplines. The Faculty relocated in 2007 to the Kingsway site, which has excellent facilities due to a significant spend over the last three years to develop the site. There are four large studios, three with sprung flooring, two dedicated Mac Labs for sound and video editing, and shared lecture theatre and seminar/classroom access.
Library provision is good and is based on the main campus which is a twentyminute walk away. The Department shares the site with the Department of Art and Design which offers degrees in Fine Art, Photography and Graphic Design. Kingsway is also home to programmes in Journalism which are offered by the Department of Media. (The Media Department is otherwise based at our Warrington Campus and offers degrees in TV Production, Radio Production, Commercial Music Production, Advertising, Media Studies, Film Studies and Journalism.) The Department made its first RAE submission in 2008 and was graded 2* 70%; 3* 25% and 4* 5% and has also recently submitted to the REF 2014.The Faculty of Arts and Media hosts the Centre for Research in Arts and Media (CCRAM) which is led by Professor Darren Sproston. Over the next three years it is to develop three research groups which will complement and focus existing departmental expertise in Applied Practice, Creative Practice and Ethnography. 8. WORK PERFORMED AND/OR KEY RESULT AREAS: 8.1 Communication To assist departmental staff in fulfilling their roles within the department. To liaise with internal departments (e.g. LIS, Facilities), logging and following up issues brought to the role holders attention, to ensure the smooth running of the department. To communicate with staff and students regarding room and equipment bookings. To communicate issues beyond the authority of the role holder to the Head/Deputy Head of Department. To report problem issues with regards to department facilities and day to day operations to the Head/ Deputy Head of Department. To effectively communicate within the Performing Arts technical team, regularly reporting to the Deputy Head of Department. To deliver practical technical demonstration and information sessions to support the learning of students on concepts and techniques in the use of technical equipment and other associated areas in line with the job role as directed by academic staff and/ or the Head/ Deputy Head of Department. This will include planned scheduled sessions on some modules as well as ad-hoc requests made by staff and students to enable them to facilitate their own work. These sessions will frequently be delivered without a member of academic staff present. To develop learning materials. This may include interactive e-learning materials as well as guidelines introducing students to key concepts and skills. To contribute to a delivery strategy for workshops which may accompany particular modules. To complete tendering documents and other relevant documentation in relation to procurement of equipment as directed by the Head/ Deputy Head of Department.
To produce printed & web-based documentation when it is required for both staff and students as directed by the Head/ Deputy Head of Department. Examples of this may include: Updating departmental risk assessment information and providing How To guides in relation to the use of specific equipment. To answer generic and discipline based queries from students and staff on a daily basis, verbally and via email. To discuss equipment, material specifications and obtain quotes from suppliers. 8.2 Teamwork and Motivation To liaise with module leaders and programme teams with regard to technical demonstrations/workshops. To work effectively and collaboratively in a coordinated way as a member of the Performing Arts department technical team. To work autonomously in delivering technical workshops. This refers specifically to ad-hoc sessions arranged in conjunction with staff or students, as well as sessions within modules by agreement with the module leader and approved by the Head/Deputy Head of Department. 8.3 Liaison and Networking To liaise effectively with academic staff regarding the learning outcomes of their modules, to ensure the role holder can develop any technical workshops/demonstrations in line with their requirements. To liaise with academic staff and students regarding requirements for productions. The role holder is expected to attend committees or team meetings as required. To liaise with external clients, suppliers, companies and individuals as required by the Head/ Deputy Head of Department. 8.4 Service Delivery To provide a helpful, proactive and reactive service to the requests of academic staff regarding room set up, practical preparation required, technical operation, demonstration requirements, etc. To develop supporting materials and classroom content in line with the requirements of the module leader. To provide ongoing verbal feedback to students regarding technical matters, and to suggest ways in which they could develop their skills further. To provide feedback to staff on student performance, in relation to their development of technical skills, areas of concern, and areas for support and further development. To monitor and reset all department rooms, to ensure they are fit for teaching at all times (in co-operation with Cleaning Services as required). When delivering information to students, the role holder will be required to adapt the provision of information to meet the individual needs of the students.
To respond to student requests for assistance with projects, exhibition work and software support, maintaining a professional approach and context to support students in order to promote development and prevent dependency. To support students in preparing for productions and other performances that the department may host. To supervise student get ins/get outs as directed by the Head/Deputy Head of Department. To install and operate technical equipment in support of performances and assessments as requested by members of academic staff and/or directed by the Head/Deputy Head of Department. To monitor and maintain equipment, take booking requests from staff and students, and supply equipment accordingly in line with departmental policy. To make room bookings at the request of staff and students in line with departmental policy. To purchase, manage stocks, sell consumables to students and keep accurate sales records. 8.5 Decision Making To use a level of initiative commensurate with the job role to ensure a high quality service within the department. To make collaborative decisions on the content and methods of delivery of technical workshops, in line with the module requirements. To make collaborative decisions with academic staff on the specific skills the students need to develop within the subject areas. To provide advice to the Head/Deputy Head of Department on software purchasing and specifications and the purchasing of other key technical equipment. To provide advice to the Head/Deputy Head of Department on hire costing for external use of Departmental equipment, as required. 8.6 Planning and Organising Resources To collaboratively plan and organise the content and delivery of technical workshops for students. To collaboratively plan and organise the content of technical workshops to meet the requirements of staff and students within the department. To catalogue, trail, store and keep secure technical equipment within the department. To provide students with access to technical equipment and facilities. To keep department resources in order. To maintain a stock of consumable items used by the department to ensure continuity of service to staff and students. To collaboratively organise a fair distribution of work within the team which will in turn ensure all tasks are carried out promptly and efficiently. There is no requirement to plan or organise the work of other staff within the department.
8.7 Initiative and Problem Solving To report equipment faults and failings to the relevant University department. To report performing arts equipment faults and failings to the Deputy Head of Department and supply prompt advice regarding the most appropriate short and long term solutions. To design technical workshops, with guidance from, and parameters set by academic staff, sometimes with a minimum level of instruction, and often to tight timescales. To interpret schemes of work, lesson plans and module descriptors in order to develop the contents of technical workshops. To solve standard day to day problems that may arise, e.g. equipment failure. To solve more complex problems in relation to specific equipment or machinery within the department. To provide technical advice to students in order to enable them to achieve maximum potential or to point them towards relevant sources of further information. To ensure facilities, machinery and equipment are maintained to the required standard and inform the Head/ Deputy Head of Department should equipment fall below this standard. To undertake repairs to facilities, machinery and equipment when possible and economical to so or arrange repair by suitable qualified persons within the parameters established in consultation with the Head/ Deputy Head of Department. To report any problems which arise which fall outside of the remit of the role to the Head/ Deputy Head of Department. 8.8 Analysis and Research To monitor student attendance at technical workshops and report absences in line with relevant department procedures. To undertake research into new equipment and software upgrades and advise the Head/ Deputy Head of Department on an ongoing basis. To maintain stocks of all relevant consumables-materials, maintain equipment designated to particular workshop-studio-suites. To source replacement equipment at competitive rates as agreed with the Head/ Deputy Head of Department. To monitor the need/demand for consumables. 8.9 Sensory and Physical Demands Use specialist Performing Arts technologies, specialist course related software and hardware. Physical demands associated with setting up equipment for practical lessons (e.g. lighting rigging, specific equipment for practical arts session etc.) as well as large scale productions and other performing arts related activities which will require heavy lifting and working at height.
8.10 Work Environment The role holder will be based in workshop, studio, classroom, office and external environments. To be responsible for the storage, safe supervision and loan of equipment to persons who have been trained in its use to ensure a safe working environment. To be familiar with all procedures in the use of equipment under the requirements of the Health and Safety Policy and Departmental Safety Control Procedures and Risk Assessments. To complete Risk Assessments as required. To maintain safe and well managed facilities, machinery and equipment. To provide support and guidance where necessary in the safe and competent use of facilities, machinery and equipment. When demonstrating to students, the role holder is responsible for the Health and Safety of students in their care. Any health and safety concerns will be reported to the Head/ Deputy Head of Department. 8.11 Pastoral Care and Welfare To show sensitivity to students, particularly those showing signs of distress and to refer students experiencing difficulties to the appropriate University support department or member of academic staff for support. The role holder is not a Personal Academic Tutor. 8.12 Team Development To support colleagues within the department in using specialist software and hardware upon request. 8.13 Teaching and Learning Support To contribute to the induction of new staff in the department at the request of the Head/Deputy Head of Department. To contribute to student induction week alongside academic staff. To design, with guidance from, and parameters set by, the module leader, a range of technical workshops and information sessions in line with the requirements of the curriculum. Any such workshops will be designed to inform students of the range of equipment and processes available to them in the Department and/or instruct them in this equipment s correct and safe usage. To deliver the above technical instruction/information workshops to students, when requested by academic staff, often without other members of staff present. The role holder is not responsible for the formal assessment of students, or for any curriculum development. 8.14 Knowledge and Experience See person specification.
8.15 General The role holder is not expected to undertake an academic teaching role. There is no requirement in the role for resolution of academic problems, intellectual issues or issues of scholarly learning support. A member of academic staff is always available to assist the role holder and students with any such issues that may occur. To undertake any other duties commensurate with your grade, and/or hours of work, as may reasonably be required of you as directed by the Head/ Deputy Head of Department. To role holder is expected to undertake flexible and shift work patterns in line with the requirements of the department/university timetable as well as the normal working practices of the performing arts industries as directed by the Head/Deputy Head of Department. To take responsibility for upholding and complying with the University s Equality and Diversity policies and for behaving in ways that are consistent with fair and equal treatment for all. To comply with all University Health and Safety policies.
PERSON SPECIFICATION Job Title: Technician (Performing Arts) Department: Performing Arts Criteria / Desirable Method of identification Qualifications: A degree, or equivalent level qualification or experience in a related field: technology and performance; electrical engineering; computing, design for performance. EDCL or equivalent, or a willingness to undertake. Proven Experience: Experience working in an educational environment preferably in an HE context. An understanding of professional practice in the creative and cultural sector involving new technologies, computing, sound lighting or design for performance. Expertise in either sound technologies or lighting design/technologies. Delivering academic and service excellence: Technical skill in aspects of performing arts technologies, for example: computer aided performance, interactive software, sound/video software. A willingness to work flexible hours in line with the normal demands of professional performing arts practices. The skills required to provide advice, guidance and demonstration of technical equipment and its use in performance to staff and students and the development of resource materials to support these e.g. instruction sheets, online instructional videos. Desirable Desirable Form/Certs Form/Certs Form/Workshop /Interview Form/ Interview Form/Workshop /Interview Interview form/interview form/workshop /interview.
Managing self and inspiring others: Good communication and interpersonal skills. High level of computer literacy. Ability to expedite multiple administrative tasks to deadline. An understanding of health and safety in a performance environment. Working together: Evidence of ability to consult and work as part of a closelyknit and collegial team. Patience and a tactful disposition. Form/Interview Form/Interview Interview form/workshop /interview Form/Interview Interview Organisational and stakeholder awareness: An awareness of the environment in which the role sits and the issues inherent in an HE environment. Desirable form/interview
UNIVERSITY OF CHESTER TERMS & CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT DEPARTMENT OF PERFORMING ARTS PERFORMING ARTS TECHNICIAN SALARY SCALE University Scale OS6, points 19-22, 22,240-24,289 per annum payable monthly in arrears. RESIDENCE REQUIREMENT It is a requirement of this post that within 12 months of appointment, the post-holder should live within a 30 mile radius or within a one hour travelling time by public transport from the University. HOURS OF WORK Monday to Thursday 9.00am - 5.30pm Friday 9.00am - 4.30pm (less one hour lunch break each day) A flexible approach to work will be required as there may be occasions when it would be necessary for you to work additional hours as dictated by the workload. HOLIDAY ENTITLEMENT 22 days per annum (pro-rata during the commencement and cessation years), rising to 27 days after five years' continuous service. Two extra statutory days per annum during the Christmas period. DISCLOSURE & BARRING SERVICE CHECKS The successful applicant will have to undergo a DBS check before an appointment can be made. MEDICAL EXAMINATION Successful candidates will be required to complete an Occupational Health questionnaire, and may be required to undergo a medical examination. ESSENTIAL CERTIFICATES Short-listed candidates will be asked to bring to interview, proof of qualifications as outlined on the Job Description and Person Specification provided. Upon appointment, copies of essential certificates will be required by HRM Services. PENSION SCHEME The University operates two pension schemes for support staff: The default scheme is the Higher Education Defined Contribution Scheme (HEDCS), which is administered by Friends Life. The Cheshire Local Government Pension Scheme, to which the University is an admitted body. All support staff are entitled to participate in one of these schemes. Some staff will be automatically enrolled into a scheme, depending on their age and earnings, but if they do not wish to remain a member of the scheme, they will be entitled to opt out after enrolment. EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES The University has a policy of equal opportunity aimed at treating all applicants for employment fairly.
SMOKING POLICY The University operates a No-Smoking policy. PROBATIONARY PERIOD A nine months' probationary period applies to all University posts. CLOSING DATE Candidates should apply for this vacancy via our online recruitment website (https://jobs.chester.ac.uk/wrl/) by 27 th June 2014 quoting reference number HRMS/13254