Department:Orchestra

Job Title:Orchestra Operations Assistant

Reports to:Orchestra Operations Manager/ Orchestra Manager

Supervisory

Responsibility: None, but may be required to provide guidance to

casual staff

Main Purpose of the Job

To provide effective and reliable support for the Orchestra Operations Manager in setting up for all orchestra calls, including the transportation of orchestral instruments, chairs and stands.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Responsibilities to include but not limited to:

  • Taking responsibility forthe care and maintenance of all the Company and hired instruments and equipment (music stands, acoustic screens, instrument stands, chairs and stools, percussion instruments and stands, rostra, noticeboard, storage boxes) in conjunction with the Orchestra Operations Manager, including annual PAT testing.
  • Setting the orchestra to agreed plans prior to all rehearsals and performances in Leeds and on tour, both in UK and abroad.
  • Checking rehearsal/performance spaces for Health and Safety issues before the players arrive and maintain a safe working environment.
  • Keeping up-to-date records of pit plans and placement of acoustic screens for each opera and concert.
  • Attendings rehearsals and performances, as directed by the Orchestra Operations Manager, and help to look after the needs of conductors and players.
  • Ensuring that you are acquainted with current Health and Safety legislation and help to make sure that you and casual staff are working within the law.
  • Working with the Orchestra Operations Manager, ensure that all reasonably practicable steps are taken to minimise the impact of noise within and around the orchestra.
  • Driving the orchestra van, except on tour when we use a larger trailer.
  • Assisting with the maintenance and cleaning of the orchestra van with Orchestra Operations Manager.
  • Stage managing orchestral concerts and being on duty for opera performances, with the Orchestra Operations Manager and Orchestra Manager. This will include stage resetting / piano moving during concert performances.
  • Setting up music stands and moving the pit piano for stage and piano rehearsals in the Grand Theatre with the Orchestra Operations Manager.
  • Managing the booking of and time sheets for casual staff, in consultation with the Orchestra Operations Manager.
  • Acting as Fire Warden for the orchestra when on duty alone(training provided).
  • Ensuring that rehearsals start and finish on time and help to manage break and interval times, with the Orchestra Operations Manager and Orchestra Manager.
  • Managing small projects, often with a small ensemble and in conjunction with the Education department
  • When required, liaising with other departments within Opera North, mainly Stage Management and Technical departments.

Additional Responsibilities

  • Any other duties as may reasonably be required within the level and scope of the post.
  • Ensuring the highest standards of professional performance are maintained.
  • Supporting and wherever possible promoting and contributing to equality and diversity within the organisation.
  • Taking reasonable care of your own health and safety and that of any person who may be affected by your acts or omissions, including following Opera North health and safety procedures and co-operating with the organisation on health and safety issues.
  • Participating in arrangements for performance review and appraisal.
  • Ensuring that professional skills are regularly updated trough participation in learning and development activities.

PERSONAL SPECIFICATION

Education & Training / Essential/
Desirable / Assessed by
Basic literacy and numeracy / Essential / Application
Health and safety qualification / Desirable / Application
Experience and Knowledge
Knowledge of health and safety legislation affecting the role / Essential / Application
Previous experience in a similar role with an orchestra / Desirable / Application
Computer literate / Desirable / Application
Knowledge of opera and theatre / Desirable / Application
Competencies
Planning and organisation / Essential / Interview
Interpersonal / Essential / Interview
Teamwork / Essential / Interview
Working under pressure / Essential / Interview
Enthusiasm and receptiveness to change / Essential / Interview
Attention to detail / Essential / Interview
Tact and diplomacy / Essential / Interview
Special Features
Full UK driving licence / Essential / Application
Good level of physical fitness to cope with the demands of the job / Essential / Application
Ability to work evenings and weekends most weeks / Essential / Application
Driving licence for 7.5 tonne vehicle / Desirable / Application

All employees are expected to provide proof of their right to work in the UK before or on their first day of employment.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Salary range:c. £20, 000 per annum (depending on experience).

Hours of work: The hours of work are based on the orchestra schedule, with the addition of get-ins and get-outs and travel time.

Overtime will not be paid but time off in lieu arranged by agreement with Orchestra Operations Manager.

Type of contract:Permanent, full time.

Normal place of work: Opera North, Grand Theatre and touring venues (currently Salford, Nottingham and Newcastle, and other venues as required).

Holiday entitlement:33 days inclusive of 8 statutory holidays per year.

Pension:Opera North will automatically enrol you into the company pension upon appointment and after 3 months’ service will make a contribution equivalent to 5.5% of your basic pay, should you meet the current legislative criteria. From April 2018, you will be required to make a personal contribution of 1.5% of your basic pay to qualify, and a further 2.5% from April 2019.