House Carpenter Goodman Theatre Chicago, IL

FLSA STATUS: Full-Time, Hourly, Non-Exempt

COMPENSATION RATE: $33.44 per hour

UNION: IATSE Local 2

LOCATION: Multiple

The House Carpenter is an integral member of the production team responsible for supporting the safe and efficient execution of all scenic and backstage operations at The Goodman. This role oversees the daily operation, maintenance, and movement of production elements during technical rehearsals, performances, special events, and changeovers.

Working closely with Production Management, Stage Management, Technical Direction, and stage crews, the House Carpenter helps maintain a safe, organized, and professional backstage environment while ensuring productions are executed according to artistic and technical standards.

The ideal candidate is a skilled theatre technician and collaborative leader who thrives in fast-paced production environments and is capable of independently managing backstage operations and supervising larger crews through complex production sequences.

• Coordinate and execute scenic operations during rehearsals, performances, load-ins, strikes, and special events.
• Supervise backstage crews and delegate assignments to ensure safe and efficient scene transitions.
• Install, maintain, modify, and repair scenic elements and stage equipment when necessary.
• Collaborate with Stage Management and department heads to coordinate backstage traffic flow, storage, and work spaces.
• Maintain the safety, cleanliness, and organization of backstage areas, stage decks, rigging systems, and scenic equipment.
• Participate in technical rehearsals, including dry tech, cue-to-cues, previews, understudy rehearsals, and performance calls.
• Provide coverage for stage crew as and when needed.
• Troubleshoot and resolve scenic, rigging, or automation issues during performances and rehearsals.
• Assist with the development and maintenance of backstage paperwork including crew tracks, shift plots, run sheets, cueing documentation, and safety procedures.
• Communicate rehearsal and performance notes between production staff and stage crews.
• Assist with risk assessment planning and implementation of safe working practices.
• Support emergency procedures and help secure backstage and production areas when necessary.
• Attend production meetings, notes sessions, run throughs, and technical planning meetings as assigned.
• Provide leadership, mentorship, and oversight for overhire crews, apprentices, and stagehands.
• Support the artistic and operational mission of Goodman Theatre through professional collaboration and communication.

• Minimum 4 years of professional experience in theatrical carpentry and/or stage operations; supervisory experience preferred.
• Strong working knowledge of scenic construction, stage rigging, counterweight systems, automation, and backstage operations.
• Ability to read and interpret scenic construction drawings and technical paperwork.
• Experience leading crews and coordinating work in high-pressure production environments.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to adapt quickly to changing production needs and rehearsal processes.
• Commitment to safe working practices and maintaining a positive backstage culture.
• Experience with theatrical automation systems, welding, or special effects is a plus.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office, AutoCAD, and production-related software preferred.
• ETCP certification, OSHA training, or other safety certifications are beneficial.
• Available for daytime, evening, weekend, and holiday hours as required by rehearsal and performance schedules.
• Model Behavior and values consistent with The Goodman’s Community Agreements and furthering The Goodman’s IDEAA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Anti-Racism and Access) goals.

• Ability to regularly lift, move, and carry up to 50 pounds or more.
• Comfortable working at heights on ladders, lifts, catwalks, and grids.
• Ability to stand, climb, bend, kneel, and work extended production hours as needed.

BACKGROUND

Chicago’s theater since 1925, The Goodman is a not-for-profit arts and community organization in the heart of the Loop,…