Technical Production Assistant

The James Lumber Center (JLC) Technical Production Assistant is responsible for the preparation and execution (or assisting in the execution) of production needs for events in the James Lumber Center facility, including professional touring, college music, dance and business events, external/community rentals and assisting with other backstage technical duties under the direct supervision of the JLC Production Manager. This position serves as the primary Audio Systems Technician, Front of House or Monitor Engineer for professional touring shows, all College Music Department events, and primary sound designer and editor for all College Dance Department events. The Technical Production Assistant Position is a union position and is represented by the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local #2

Job Description:

1. Assess and implements audio and technical needs for college, professional touring and rental events presented in the James Lumber Center (JLC), under the direct supervision of the JLC Production Manager.

2. Serves as primary Front of House or Monitor Engineer for scheduled events.

3. Performs scheduling, training and day of show guidance for JLC tech assistants in audio support and other backstage duties, as designated by the JLC Production Manager.

4. Works load-in, set up and load-out of scheduled JLC activities; including (but not limited to) rigging, configuration of orchestra shell, hang and focus of lighting instruments, lighting programming, set up of staging equipment (some heavy lifting may be required), setup and configuration of audio equipment.

5. Arranges for audio equipment rentals when needed.

6. Create and maintain show related paperwork including Stage plots, input lists, equipment needs, etc.

7. Works as technical support staff as needed for events presented in the JLC.

8. Researches and recommends audio equipment purchases, techniques, and procedures to enhance and support requirements for JLC audio equipment maintenance repairs and purchases.

9. Provides general maintenance for JLC audio/visual equipment and assists in the overall inventory/maintenance of all JLC backstage equipment and supplies.

10. Maintains up to date crew schedule.

11. Serve as alternate point of contact for facility service and upgrades e.g. Contractor installation, vendor maintenance, etc.

12. Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree + 2 years of relevant experience OR

Associate’s degree + 4 years of relevant experience OR

High school diploma + 6 years of relevant experience

Minimum of 6–8 years of hands-on experience mixing live audio for diverse events and musical genres, demonstrating advanced proficiency with both analog and digital mixing consoles.

Proven ability to program and operate professional audio/video playback systems, such as Q-Lab. Familiarity with managing and maintaining AV network protocols like Dante and sACN.

Solid understanding of video projection systems, including setup, calibration, and live operation.

Experience with audio editing software for post-production and content management. Working knowledge of stage lighting systems and safe theatrical rigging practices, ensuring compliance with safety standards and show requirements.

Ability to read and interpret complex technical manuals, schematics, and system diagrams. Competent in basic electrical safety practices, soldering techniques, and cable termination, including Ethernet and other AV-related connectors.

Must be physically capable of lifting up to 50 lbs, working at heights using ladders or lifts, and performing tasks in low-light, high-noise environments.

Strong communication skills and a collaborative mindset are essential for following directions and contributing effectively to a team-oriented production environment.

Desired Qualifications:

Excellent communication and organizational skills with a variety of stakeholders.

Ability to successfully work on multiple projects with tight deadlines.

Advanced knowledge of and proficiency in Microsoft Office.

Bilingual Spanish/English

Salary:  $27.30 - $28.19/hour

Work Schedule: Schedule is 40 hours per week, actual hours vary based on show schedule and need. May work over 8 hours a day, plus evenings and weekends, depending on the needs of the college/event schedule.  Occasional overtime may be required

EEO Statement

College of Lake County is an Equal Opportunity Employer with a policy of non-discrimination. Qualified applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age (40 or older), disability and genetic information (including family medical history).