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Head of Scenic Carpentry

The Free Will Players Theatre Guild was formed in 1989 by a group of actors in a truly co-operative spirit with the mandate to produce the works of William Shakespeare. The company presents the Freewill Shakespeare Festival, which has grown into a professional theatre festival with an annual audience of thousands. We stage outdoor productions every summer.

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Ethnocultural Mandate

The Freewill Players is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion and to building an organization that reflects the community we serve. We encourage applications from members of Black, Indigenous, and racialized communities; Two-Spirit, non-binary, trans, lesbian, gay, bisexual and queer people; disabled people; youth; and members of other equity seeking groups.

The Free Will Players Theatre Guild is seeking an experienced and highly skilled Head of Scenic Carpentry to join the production leadership team for the 2026 Freewill Shakespeare Festival. This position is ideal for a theatre professional with strong scenic construction experience who is comfortable leading a team, mentoring emerging technicians, and supporting a collaborative production process during the festival build period.


About the Role

The Heady of Scenic Carpentry oversees the construction, assembly, installation, and maintenance of all scenic elements for festival productions. Reporting to the Production Manager and Set Designer, the Head of Scenic Carpentry ensures that all scenic work is completed safely, on schedule, and in accordance with design specifications.


This role emphasizes leadership, delegation, and mentorship of carpentry staff, interns, and volunteers while maintaining high standards of craftsmanship, safety, and workflow efficiency throughout the build process.


Key Responsibilities

  • Lead, supervise, and mentor the scenic carpentry team, including staff, interns, and volunteers

  • Oversee the construction, assembly, and installation of all scenic elements in collaboration with the Production Manager and Set Designer

  • Ensure work is completed according to design specifications, safety protocols, and production timelines

  • Assign tasks, monitor progress, and provide technical guidance to team members

  • Maintain and manage tools, equipment, and materials to ensure safe and efficient use

  • Troubleshoot construction and installation challenges and propose effective solutions

  • Coordinate with scenic painters, props staff, and other production departments to support integrated workflows

  • Participate in set installation and strike, providing direction and oversight to the carpentry team

  • Ensure adherence to workplace safety standards, proper use of PPE, and safe operation of hand and power tools


Who Should Apply

This role is well suited to individuals who have:

  • Experience in theatrical carpentry and scenic construction

  • Strong leadership skills and a collaborative, hands-on working style

  • Attention to detail and a commitment to high production standards

  • Confidence troubleshooting construction challenges in a production environment

  • Knowledge of safety protocols, tool operation, and efficient shop practices


Contract Details

  • Start Date: April 28, 2026

  • End Date: June 7, 2026

  • Compensation: $26.50 per hour

  • Hours: Up to 40 hours per week


How to Apply

Please email a cover letter and resume to pm@freewillshakespeare.com with the subject line:
Head of Scenic Carpentry – Freewill Shakespeare Festival

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