University Staff
Temporary (Fixed Term)
Stagehand TE
PBS Wisconsin, a service of Wisconsin Public Media, is hiring a Scenic Production Assistant to build the studio sets and props seen in its television productions. This is a carpentry-focused, hands-on role: most of the work involves framing, cutting, assembling, and finishing scenic elements in the shop, then installing and striking them in the studio or on location for special events.
Beyond the build itself, this position collaborates with the lead scenic designer to plan, design, and furnish productions. Keeps tools, equipment, and storage areas clean, organized, and accurately inventoried, using the existing inventory database.
Responsibilities
Assist in building, installing, and taking down scenic sets and props for studio and remote productions and events.
Keep the scene shop and storage areas clean, organized, and free of clutter
Maintain accurate inventories and records of scenic equipment and properties
Other scenic and production-related responsibilities as assigned.
This position reports to the lead scenic designer.
We're especially looking for someone with hands-on carpentry experience — comfortable running shop tools, reading plans, and building scenic or theatrical elements from the ground up. Being able to create construction drawings for designs is a plus but not required
This position is classified under UW–Madison's Stagehand TE standard job title (Job Code TE012, Temporary Employee category), with the working title of Scenic Production Assistant.
This is a part-time (50%), non-exempt, hourly appointment with a one year term
The successful candidate can anticipate working an average of 20 hours per week, with some weeks being more and some less depending on production schedules and deadlines.
This position works on-site at PBS Wisconsin's studios at Vilas Communication Hall on the UW–Madison campus. Given the hands-on nature of building, installing, and maintaining scenic elements, this position is not eligible for a flexible work agreement.
Hours are generally scheduled Monday–Friday during standard business hours; evening and weekend work will be required as needed to support scenic event installs, strikes, and live productions.
This position occasionally requires travel to off-site locations.
Driver Authorization
It is expected that employees will make individual arrangements for transportation adequate to meet position responsibilities and essential job functions. Information about UW-Madison Driver Authorization can be found at businessservices.wisc.edu
Wisconsin Public Media/PBS WI
We anticipate paying $20-22 per hour, with actual pay dependent on qualifications and experience.
- Hands on carpentry experience
- Ability to read plans
- Ability to build scenic or theatrical elements
- Experience creating construction drawings for designs
H.S. Diploma Preferred Minimum
Resume (required) - Detail your educational and professional background
Cover Letter (optional) - Refer to your related work experience
Your application materials will be used during our evaluation to determine your qualifications as they relate to the job. The most qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the next step of the selection process.
Please note that successful applicants are responsible for ensuring their eligibility to work in the United States (i.e. a citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without need of employer sponsorship) on or before the effective date of appointment.
Lili Gagliano, [email protected]
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