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Job Description

Reports to: Associate Technical Director 

THE POSITION
The Shopper/Buyer works with the TD staff on the researching and procurement of materials required for the execution of the scenic design.
This position delivers materials and equipment to locations as needed; maintains inventory of shop supplies and materials; coordinates maintenance of tools, equipment, and vehicles; maintains records of purchases and provides accounting statements.
All employees are expected to center, model and champion the Guthrie’s core values of Artistic Excellence, Community, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, and Fiscal Responsibility.

This position is full-time, non-exempt and benefits-eligible.
Compensation is $27.90 per hour, plus benefits.
This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement with IATSE Local 13.scen
The typical schedule for this role is Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

The Guthrie 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 non-binary 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 theater field are strongly encouraged to apply.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Ordering and Purchasing

• Purchase materials in a timely manner as required by production demands and scene/paint shop needs.
• Research materials to determine the best price and availability of options.
• Purchase materials and equipment to keep the shop functioning efficiently.
• Drive various company vehicles as assigned.
• Work with Scene Shop Supervisor to maintain tool and material inventory.
• Prepare weekly and monthly budget statements.
• Provide accounting documentation to the Finance and Production departments for Scene Shop budgets, including tools, supplies and individual production scenic material accounts.
• Record material use on a weekly basis to ensure accuracy of reported stock levels.
• Coordinate maintenance of shop and stage equipment in coordination with TD staff, the Scene Shop Supervisor and the Head of Automation and Safety.
• Communicate with Scene Shop and Paint Shop staff to determine specifics on items to be procured and order/purchase materials.
• Coordinate with other production departments any materials or equipment needs.
• Become familiar with design concepts in order to efficiently procure materials and components.
• Consider the environmental impact of materials and conduct research or make suggestions of alternative materials when possible.
• Work with TD staff to ensure that SDS records are maintained as new products are purchased.
• Work cross departmentally to ensure that any drop offs or pickups do not interfere with the normal operations of the building.
• Complete other duties as assigned.

2. Maintenance of Spaces, Supplies and Vehicles

• Restore tools and equipment to the proper location when no longer in use.
• Coordinate the organization of the Scene Shop hardware room, tool room, and other storage/organization spaces along with the Scene Shop Supervisor and fellow Carpenters.
• Coordinate with the Scene Shop Supervisor on maintenance of shop tools, notifying TD staff as needed.
• Coordinate with the Scene Shop Supervisor on monitoring inventory system levels.
• Clean and organize work spaces, tools, raw materials, and scenic elements along with other Scene Shop staff. Participate in this regular practice.
• Ensure shop truck receives regular and necessary maintenance.
• Foster a work environment incorporating the Guthrie values of Artistic Excellence, Community, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, and Fiscal Responsibility.

3. Construct, Install and Maintain Scenery and Effects

• Build, create, modify and install scenery, effects and rigging to convey the designer’s vision, meet the functional requirements of the play and ensure durability and safety standards as assigned.
• Interpret design and working drawings when necessary.
• Work individually or as part of a team on projects as assigned.
• Maintain running dialogue on projects with TD staff, the Shop Supervisor and fellow Carpenters.
• Provide assistance and solutions as needed to address issues of safety, function, aesthetics and fabrication.
• Participate in load-in and strike of scenic elements as assigned.
• Assist in setting and maintaining levels of craftsmanship and artistic excellence.
• Transition between tasks and projects when designs or priorities shift.
• Create prototypes, when necessary, to determine the most appropriate construction method and material.

ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience in theatrical carpentry and purchasing.
• Skill in multitasking.
• Proactive approach to maintaining and improving organizational systems.
• Effective communication skills, including in-person, over the phone and via email.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office® products, specifically Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Basic skills and knowledge in carpentry.
• Basic knowledge of welding and metal working is preferred.
• Basic knowledge of theatrical rigging is preferred.
• Physical ability to lift and hold 50lbs.
• Solves problems creatively.
  • This relates especially to the research and procurement of materials, as we often use materials in non-traditional ways.  This position requires an ability to think outside the box – to look at materials not as they were intended but as what qualities they may have that would address production needs.
• Works independently and takes initiative when necessary.
• Fork lift experience preferred.
• Valid driver’s license and a clean driving record.
• Strong commitment to health and safety in the workplace.
• Must be willing and able to work flexible hours/days, including evenings and weekends, reflective of the dynamic schedule of the theater.
• Experience, ability and commitment to working with individuals and teams that are mixed across lines of difference such as race, gender-identity, sexual orientation, religion, ability, age, class and immigrant status.

A NOTE FROM HUMAN RESOURCES
Applicants must submit the following to be considered for the position:

• Cover letter
• Resume

How to Apply

Apply online here

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