Theatre Technician Apprentice

THE BIRMINGHAM REPERTORY THEATRE LIMITED

BIRMINGHAM (B1 2EP)

Closes in 26 days (Monday 15 September 2025)

Posted on 19 August 2025

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Summary

Our apprenticeship offers hands-on training for those beginning a career as a theatre technician. It’s ideal for someone interested in Technical Theatre who thrives on learning by doing. This opportunity supports those who may not have access to the arts or who seek an alternative route into working in theatre.

Wage

£18,200 a year

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Training course
Creative industries production technician (level 3)
Hours
Evening and weekend work will be required. We don’t encourage or expect over time, however, in the event that over time is worked, this may either be paid or taken as time off in lieu to be agreed in advance with your line manager. Shifts to be confirmed.

35 hours a week

Start date

Friday 31 October 2025

Duration

1 year 6 months

Positions available

1

Work

Most of your apprenticeship is spent working. You’ll learn on the job by getting hands-on experience.

What you'll do at work

Technical Duties:

  • Maintain the highest production standards on all productions.
  • Work with the technical departments, carrying out get ins and get outs for visiting productions
  • To be involved with the creation of all Rep productions
  • Work with the Lighting and Sound/Video departments rigging, focusing, programming and operating lighting, sound and video equipment
  • Work with the Stage Departments, fitting up and taking down scenery, stage equipment and rigging
  • Work to design and installation deadlines as per production schedules set by the Production Manager
  • To maintain performances, ensuring the productions continued adherence to its creator’s original design
  • To work on performances and events
  • To ensure everyone’s experience of visiting The Rep are positive and enjoyable

Health and Safety:

  • Maintain the highest possible Health and Safety standards on all productions
  • Follow all The Reps Health and Safety policies
  • Adhere to The Rep risk assessments and safe systems of work
  • Report any incidents or concerns

Equipment Maintenance:

  • Help with the maintenance of the performance spaces, including in-service electrical inspections and thorough cleaning
  • Assist in maintaining and repairing all equipment
  • Keep all areas clean and tidy, making sure The Rep is a safe and professional working environment

Communication and Administration:

  • Ensure detailed records are maintained for all equipment
  • Ensure show files and any relevant records are archived 

Where you'll work

6 CENTENARY SQUARE
BIRMINGHAM
B1 2EP

Training

Apprenticeships include time away from working for specialist training. You’ll study to gain professional knowledge and skills.

Training provider

ACCESS FURTHER EDUCATION LIMITED

Training course

Creative industries production technician (level 3)

Understanding apprenticeship levels (opens in new tab)

What you'll learn

Course contents
  • Interpret system specifications and drawings such as sound, lighting or video.
  • Prepare system specifications and drawings.
  • Use specialist software systems such as computer aided design and asset management to extract information and input basic information.
  • Assemble systems to support production, live performance or events from component parts using correct tools.
  • Troubleshoot and fault find issues in discrete pieces of equipment.
  • Deploy, operate and maintain technical equipment and tools.
  • Prepare, test, repair and maintain lighting, sound or video equipment and systems.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders and adapt communication appropriately to suit the audience.
  • Use digital collaboration tools to collaborate with colleagues and stakeholders.
  • Direct team members taking into consideration their level of experience.
  • Interpret and apply method statements in response to dynamic risk assessment to help ensure safe planning and delivery of work processes.
  • Use safety and access equipment in accordance with manufacturer instructions or to an alternative safe scheme of use.
  • Assemble and configure structures and systems from component parts to production specification.
  • Disassemble structures and systems, storing component parts and equipment safely.
  • Prepare written information and reports.
  • Comply with creative venue budgetary and financial management protocols.
  • Undertake set and change scenes in live performance – setting and striking scenic elements under show conditions.
  • Operate suspension systems.
  • Undertake stage crafts such as basic scenic construction, carpentry, metalwork, stage machinery, props, scene changes, knots and terminations.
  • Trouble shoot, fault find and carry out basic repairs to creative venue and production systems.
  • As directed, inspect, test and maintain creative venue systems and production systems.
  • Program and operate production control consoles. Undertake cueing and operation during the live performance or event.
  • Trouble shoot, fault find and repair at sub assembly and component level.
  • Calibrate equipment and systems to meet production requirements.
  • Identify, specify and use components, systems and products applicable for the environment.
  • Identify and undertake servicing requirements in line with manufacturer recommendations.
  • Achieve effective network connectivity across live event systems.
  • Identify required packing space for equipment and for truck packs.
  • Prepare and operate lifting and ground rigging equipment.
  • Program and operate lighting control systems.
  • Assess and monitor power supply systems, installing wiring for practicals and equipment as required.
  • Prepare, set and operate lighting equipment to create the desired effect.
  • Manipulate and modify lighting, using diffusion materials, filters or reflectors to create the desired effect.
  • Adapt lighting to meet short notice creative changes in the production design or script.
  • Prepare and operate extra low voltage lighting equipment and systems.
  • Identify the dangers and restrictions in the use of battery supplies including charging and mitigate for these.
  • Interpret system specifications and drawings such as sound, lighting or video.
  • Prepare system specifications and drawings.
  • Use specialist software systems such as computer aided design and asset management to extract information and input basic information.
  • Assemble systems to support production, live performance or events from component parts using correct tools.
  • Troubleshoot and fault find issues in discrete pieces of equipment.
  • Deploy, operate and maintain technical equipment and tools.
  • Prepare, test, repair and maintain lighting, sound or video equipment and systems.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders and adapt communication appropriately to suit the audience.
  • Use digital collaboration tools to collaborate with colleagues and stakeholders.
  • Direct team members taking into consideration their level of experience.
  • Interpret and apply method statements in response to dynamic risk assessment to help ensure safe planning and delivery of work processes.
  • Use safety and access equipment in accordance with manufacturer instructions or to an alternative safe scheme of use.
  • Assemble and configure structures and systems from component parts to production specification.
  • Disassemble structures and systems, storing component parts and equipment safely.
  • Prepare written information and reports.

Training schedule

Creative Industries Production Technician Level 3 Apprenticeship Standard:

  • The apprenticeship role includes 20% off-the-job training, such as online learning with Access Industry with other Apprentice Technicians, attending industry events, and networking with professionals
  • You’ll also complete the Association of British Theatre Technicians Bronze Award qualification

Requirements

Share if you have other relevant qualifications and industry experience. The apprenticeship can be adjusted to reflect what you already know.

Skills

  • Communication skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Organisation skills
  • Problem solving skills
  • Analytical skills
  • Team working
  • Creative
  • Initiative
  • Patience
  • Physical fitness
  • Ability to work at height

Other requirements

Be at least 18 years old at the start of the apprenticeship Have the right to work in the UK Being able to work at height At the Rep we don’t expect or look for the ‘perfect candidate’, instead we look for people who can positively contribute to our team. In return you will be given support, encouragement and all the right conditions to grow, succeed and be your best. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where difference is a strength and every unique voice and skill is recognised and valued. For us, recruitment is more than a match against a job description, it’s about feeling excited to come to work every day and being proud of who you work with and for. We believe The Rep is for everyone, so however you identify, whatever your background, if you feel excited about this role then we urge you to please apply.

About this employer

Established in 1913, The Rep has an unparalleled history as a pioneering repertory theatre and the launch-pad for some of the most exciting talent in UK theatre both past and present. Today it is a producing powerhouse with three auditoria - The House, 816 seats; The Studio, 292 seats; The Door, 133 seats - as well as extensive on-site production facilities: set building, scenic art, wardrobe, props workshop, lighting, sound/AV, stage and stage management. Producing theatre is the core of The Rep’s mission and it creates up to ten productions a year of varying sizes across its stages. Many are made in co-production with other theatres and commercial producers and all Rep-led productions are built in house. Alongside in house productions, the theatre presents a programme of visiting productions. The theatre also has an impressive creative learning and talent development programme delivering opportunities for thousands of young people every year.

https://www.birmingham-rep.co.uk (opens in new tab)

Company benefits

25 days plus bank holidays per year. Contributory staff pension. A day off for your birthday. Staff ticket discounts (when available) Free-to-use employee assistance service & GP Service. £5 day rates at Utilita Arena Car Parks.

Disability Confident

Disability Confident

A fair proportion of interviews for this apprenticeship will be offered to applicants with a disability or long-term health condition. This includes non-visible disabilities and conditions.

You can choose to be considered for an interview under the Disability Confident scheme. You’ll need to meet the essential requirements to be considered for an interview.

After this apprenticeship

  • After completing your apprenticeship, you’ll have a solid foundation in lighting, sound, stage, AV, rigging, and health & safety - making you versatile in many areas or you can specialise in one particular area. 
  • With transferable skills aquired you could also move in the Live Music & Festivals or Corporate Events sectors

Ask a question

The contact for this apprenticeship is:

ACCESS FURTHER EDUCATION LIMITED

reptalent@birmingham-rep.co.uk

The reference code for this apprenticeship is VAC1000337791.

Apply now

Closes in 26 days (Monday 15 September 2025)

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