Assistant Lead Electrician​/Light Board Operator and Programmer

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Starting salary $750 (commensurate w/experience) per week

Theatre By The Sea; 2026 Season (Wakefield, RI)

TBTS is seeking an Assistant Lead Electrician (ALE) for its 2026 summer season. The Assistant Lead Electrician is a core member of the electrics department, supporting the Lead Electrician in the installation, maintenance, and operation of lighting systems for a four-show musical season. The ALE serves as the primary lighting programmer and board operator, working closely with the Lighting Designer and Lead Electrician to support technical rehearsals, performances, and changeovers.

This structure is designed to keep electrics leadership available for troubleshooting, communication, and department oversight throughout the season. The role is ideal for an experienced electrician who values collaboration, flexibility, and being part of a cohesive summer stock lighting team.

• Serve as the primary lighting programmer and board operator for all productions
• Program lighting cues in collaboration with the Lighting Designer during technical rehearsals
• Operate the lighting console for performances
• Assist the Lead Electrician with lighting load‑ins, installations, focuses, changeovers, and strikes
• Actively participate in lighting focus sessions and system prep
• Support daily lighting operations during technical rehearsals and performances
• Assist with troubleshooting lighting issues during rehearsals and performances
• Support and mentor other members of the electrics team, including apprentice staff
• Collaborate with the Lead Electrician and Production Management to support efficient workflows and scheduling
• Maintain lighting equipment, cabling, and systems throughout the season
• Support safe working practices and help maintain a clean, organized electrics work environment

This position includes participation in technical support for Theatre By The Sea's children's productions on an as‑needed basis. Specific dates and expectations will be communicated in advance and incorporated into the seasonal schedule.

• Prior experience as an Assistant Head/Lead Electrician, Lighting Programmer, or equivalent role
• Strong experience programming and operating lighting consoles for musical theatre
• Strong working knowledge of theatrical lighting systems, including hanging, circuiting, focusing, and basic troubleshooting
• Ability to read and work from lighting plots and technical paperwork
• Interest in leadership, mentorship, and collaborative problem‑solving
• Strong communication skills and a team‑oriented working style

Full‑season commitment required.

• Positions are scheduled for 40 hours per week
• Evening and weekend work required based on rehearsal, performance, and production schedules
• Overtime is limited, requires prior approval, and is typically confined to technical rehearsal and changeover weeks

Competitive weekly rate, commensurate with experience. Housing and travel assistance may be available.

Theatre By The Sea is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages a diverse workforce. Applicants of all gender identities and members of BIPOC, AAPI, and LGBTQ+ communities are strongly encouraged to apply.

Please submit a resume, a brief cover letter, and three references. Please include “Assistant Lead Electrician” in the subject line.