Props Builder - All Levels

Company Overview

Who We Are:

Based in Stratford, Ontario, the Stratford Festival is one of the world’s foremost repertory theatre companies. It operates year-round, presenting a season of about a dozen plays each year between the months of April and November, a rich stream of digital content and hundreds of events designed to deepen understanding of the plays. For every person a theatregoer sees on our stages, we have seven people working behind the scenes, some of the world’s most dedicated and experienced arts workers.

The Stratford Festival is committed to ongoing work to support equity, inclusion, anti-racism and anti-oppression in all areas of our work. These areas include play selection, casting, marketing and public relations efforts, education programs, production, design, recruitment of staff and volunteers, and the composition of the Board of Directors.

Why You Should Apply:

• Creative work environment     
• Employee Assistance Program to encourage work-life balance and strong mental health
• Complimentary & discounted ticket offers and events
• Employee discounts on merchandise and event space
• Being a part of the magic of live theatre!

Job Description

Reporting to the Head of Properties or designate, the Props Builder is a member of the Production Department responsible for the construction, finishing, modification, and installation of props and scenic elements. Working with varying degrees of independence based on experience and skill level, the incumbent applies a range of prop-making techniques to complete projects of increasing complexity. This role requires technical proficiency, creativity, problem-solving, organization, and attention to detail. More experienced incumbents are expected to work independently, provide guidance and instruction to others, collaborate closely with Designers and the Head of Properties, and contribute to the planning and execution of complex builds. Successful candidates will demonstrate progressive competency in prop-making skills, the ability to manage multiple priorities, and a commitment to producing high-quality work in a collaborative production environment. 

Responsibilities:

• Build, modify, finish, repair, and install props using a variety of materials and fabrication techniques.  
• Assist with prop sourcing, purchasing, and material procurement as required.  
• Collaborate with Designers, Assistant Designers, production staff, and craftspeople to realize design concepts.  
• Interpret drawings, renderings, specifications, and production notes to execute prop builds.  
• Research materials, techniques, and construction solutions to support project requirements.  
• Plan, prioritize, and complete assigned projects to meet production deadlines.  
• Operate and maintain prop shop tools, machinery, and equipment safely and efficiently.  
• Apply and develop skills across a range of disciplines, including woodworking, carving, sculpting, mold making, welding, soft goods, painting and finishing techniques, upholstery, fiberglass, graphics, 3D printing, and specialty effects.  
• Work independently while exercising sound judgment and creative problem-solving.  
• Depending on experience level, provide mentorship, training, and guidance to junior team members.  
• Maintain a safe, organized, and collaborative work environment. 
• Adhere to the Stratford Festival Health & Safety Commitment and Procedures, and ensure that safe work practices and policies are supported and enforced within reporting structure. 
• Perform other duties as assigned 

Minimum Qualifications:

• Post-secondary diploma program, typically a two year program, or equivalent, (i.e. Community college, Technical Institute or Trade School, etc.) in Fine Arts, Theatre Arts or related field  
• 3 to 8 years of experience in prop making, theatrical construction, scenic construction, fabrication, or a related field. Candidates may be considered at different levels based on their skills and experience.  
• Experience with theatrical construction methods, materials, and fabrication techniques.  
• Ability to safely operate hand tools, power tools, shop equipment, and machinery.  
• Ability to manually lift and move props and building materials up to 50 lbs.  
• Familiarity with reading design drawings, renderings, prop lists, and technical specifications.  
• Knowledge of prop-making disciplines such as woodworking, carving, sculpting, mold making, sewing/soft props, welding, painting and finishing, upholstery, graphics, fiberglass, 3D printing, and specialty effects.  
• Ability to select appropriate materials, fabrication methods, and finishing techniques to achieve design objectives.  
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and time-management skills.  
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced production environment.