Cleveland Play House
Cleveland, OH
US
Wendy Weaver
(IATSE) Head Carpenter Job Description
Position type: Full-Time; Seasonal; Non-Exempt; Union (IATSE) Pay: $23.71/hr
Start Date: July 21, 2025, End Date: June 5, 2026
Reports to: Technical Director and Associate Technical Director
Work Schedule: Primarily Monday through Friday 8:00am-4:30pm. Some weekends and evenings may be required.
Cleveland Play House is seeking a Head Carpenter (IATSE) to join the production team and build our mainstage season, New Ground Theater Festival and the Case Western Reserve University MFA program productions. Must be willing to join IATSE Local 27
Position Summary:
The Head Carpenter leads the scenic build, load-in, maintenance, and strike of all scenic elements for productions at CPH. This role supervises the carpentry team and works closely with the Technical Director, Associate Technical Director, and other production departments to ensure all scenery is executed safely, accurately, and on schedule. The Head Carpenter also oversees the upkeep of shop facilities and enforces safety protocols.
Responsibilities:
Leadership & Supervision
鈥� Supervise and mentor 4 staff carpenters, and over hire crew during scenic builds and installations
鈥� Lead scenic load-ins, notes during tech rehearsals, and strikes for all productions
鈥� Coordinate work schedules and delegate tasks based on project timelines
鈥� Maintain the standard of practice to ensure a safe, efficient, clean work environment
Construction & Installation
鈥� Interpret technical and scenic drawings to guide the build and installation process
鈥� Work hands-on in the shop and on stage constructing scenic elements from wood, metal, and other materials
鈥� Ensure scenic elements meet design intent and are executed with attention to high quality, detail and safety
鈥� Oversee, along with Stage Carpenter, the rigging of flown and moving scenery in accordance with industry safety standards
Safety & Maintenance
鈥� Maintain clean and organized workspaces in the scene shop and on stage
鈥� Ensure compliance with OSHA and internal safety policies
鈥� Coordinate equipment maintenance, tool inventories, and material orders with the Technical Director
鈥� Provide input on improving shop practices, tool usage, and build efficiencies
鈥� Maintain a safe and healthy work environment, and uphold the policies and procedures outlined in the Cleveland Play House Handbook
鈥� Attend and participate in all assigned staff training sessions, department meetings, show specific trainings and potential committee groups within the organization.
鈥� Follow all health and safety guidelines established by the theatre; report any unsafe conditions or practices to your supervisor immediately
Collaboration
鈥� Collaborate with other departments (props, electrics, paint, stage management) during load-in, technical rehearsals, and performances.
Qualifications
鈥� 3+ years experience in scenic construction, with at least 1 year in a supervisory role
鈥� Advanced knowledge of scenic construction techniques, materials, and tools
鈥� Strong ability to read and interpret technical and scenic drafting
鈥� Familiarity with theatrical rigging, automation, and standard stage practices
鈥� Skilled in both wood and metal fabrication; welding experience a plus
鈥� Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills
鈥� Comfortable working at heights, on ladders, and with heavy machinery
鈥� Ability to lift up to 75 lbs and work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends during tech
Preferred Qualifications
鈥� Welding certification
鈥� Experience with automation or CNC systems
鈥� Valid driver's license
鈥� OSHA 1 0 or 30 certification
Benefits
鈥� 6 paid-time off days, up to 7 company holidays and 2 discretionary holidays
鈥� CPH contributes to IATSE Health, Pension, and Profit-Sharing Plans.
鈥� Tickets to select CPH productions subject to availability.
鈥� Parking is available at the employee's cost
Cleveland Play House is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
Cleveland Play House (CPH) is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment where artists and employees are valued for their talent, contributions, and diverse perspectives. We ensure that our hiring, casting, and workplace policies are based on merit, collaboration, and fairness and approached with respect. Our focus is on fostering creativity, access, excellence, and professional growth for all who engage in our work, in accordance with all applicable laws.
Jul 21, 2025 - Jun 5, 2026
$23.71 – $23.71 per hour
IATSE