Technical Scenic Artist in Charge San Francisco Opera San Francisco, CA

PURPOSE:

The Scenic Artist In Charge provides leadership for the Scenic Art department at San Francisco Opera Association (SFOA) when needed seasonally, overseeing and ensuring the successful operations of the Scenic Art department. The Scenic Artist In Charge has exceptional artistic and technical expertise and is responsible for the successful execution of the painting and other scenic art aspects of new productions, re‑mounts and any projects undertaken by San Francisco Opera that require scenic art efforts per the Collective Bargaining Agreement between SFOA and Art Directors Guild Local 800 IATSE.

The Scenic Artist In Chage must be a highly professional, calm, organized, collaborative and creative individual, who thrives working with a team and as a member of a team, and who excels under pressure and in varied work environments. The role will specialize in team‑building and personnel management, advance‑planning, attention‑to‑detail, artistic and creative vision, and will cultivate positive relationships with guest designers, other creative team members and company members.

The Scenic Artist In Charge will diligently maintain the highest possible production values for San Francisco Opera Association.

• Work closely with Managing Director:
  Production, the Technical Department and the Scene Shop Foreperson, advise on best practices of scenic art and related operations, and serve as a creative challenge‑solver with sound judgement who can focus quickly on solutions and efficiencies in the operation of the Scenic Art department.
• Maintain a positive relationship and open communication with the Executive Director of the Art Directors Guild Local 800 IATSE.
• Attend assigned planning meetings, production meetings and design presentations as needed, along with regular Heads of Department weekly meetings as required during the Opera season.
• Ability to organize and assign team members to delegate and collaborate in all work in the Scenic Art department for each assigned production and/or project. Foster collaboration with all departments, maintaining an open‑door policy for interdisciplinary projects and tasks.
• Artistic & Creative
  
  Competencies:
  
  Able to interpret and present designers’ visions through tangible samples and supporting documentation; maintain a balance between traditional scenic techniques and emerging technologies – willingness to think outside the box and learn new techniques and equipment; fluent in theatrical drawing, fine art and painting techniques; experience in transferring designs, including gridding, pouncing and projecting; skilled in carving techniques using various materials;
  
  proficient in casting and fabrication processes including fiberglass, foam, plaster and mold‑making; knowledge of preparing and sizing theatrical fabrics and backdrops; strong 3‑D competence with an understanding of or proficiency in 3‑D modeling; familiarity with signage, both vinyl and painted.
• Safety Priorities: Maintain workplace safety standards, including adherence to OSHA and CalOSHA guidelines; general first aid training and familiarity with scene shop emergency protocols to ensure a safe work environment; ensure compliance with local hazardous waste disposal programs and recycling regulations.
• Administrative Tasks & Material Management: Manage, track, document and archive all new creations and remounts, in digital and hard copy format; plan crew size, skill requirements and timelines to meet project demands and budgets; schedule paint crews efficiently, at the War Memorial Opera House, the Scene Shop and other locations; coordinate project flow, floor schedules and space requirements; create estimates and material lists;
  
  order materials and coordinate shipments with vendors and Scene Shop Foreperson; maintain paint shop inventory of products, tools and essential supplies; research and develop special material applications and techniques to enhance production quality.
• Project Management & Team Operations: Strong shop floor acumen; ability to manage team members, ensuring a positive, professional environment as well as productivity and efficiency;…