Senior Maker (multiple vacancies)

Overview

As a Senior Maker at Plunge Creations, you will play a crucial role in the design, fabrication, and delivery of high-quality props, sets, scenery, and costumes. You will collaborate closely with Plunge's Directors, Project Managers, and Designers to ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards. Additionally, you will contribute to improving workshop processes, maintaining a tidy and efficient workspace, and upholding health and safety standards.

Specialisms

We are looking particularly for makers with any of these specialisms:

Woodwork:

• Proficiency in general woodworking techniques, including joinery, laminating, and basic cabinet-making.
• Skilled operation of carpentry tools such as table saws, chop saws, routers, and lathes.​

Metal Work:

• Competence in MIG and TIG welding, as well as lathe work, grinding, and polishing.​
• Solid understanding of engineering principles.​

Sculpting and Moulding:

• Ability to expertly sculpt using materials like clay and polystyrene.​
• Expertise in mould making, casting, fibreglassing, filling, and sanding.​
• Proficiency in spray painting and hand art-working is a valuable asset.​

Electronics:

• Knowledge of general electronics and wiring practices.
• Experience with LEDs, sound cards, audiovisual special effects, low-voltage lighting, motors, general programming, and DMX systems.
• Ability to code and utilise platforms like Arduinos and Raspberry Pis.

Mechanisms and Animatronics:

• Experience in designing and building mechanical systems or animatronics for props, puppets and costumes requiring movement or special effects.

Key Responsibilities

Your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

Project Planning & Coordination

• Work closely with Plunge's Directors, Project Managers, and Designers to fully understand the scope and requirements of each project.
• Assist the Project Managers / Production Managers with costings, budgets, and material planning.
• Attend production meetings and actively contribute to project planning discussions.
• Help oversee workshop schedules, prioritising tasks to meet production deadlines.

Fabrication & Production

• Lead the construction of props, sets, scenery, and costumes, ensuring high-quality finishes.
• Carry out painting, finishing, and detailing work as required.
• Guide and oversee project teams, ensuring clear objectives and deadlines are met.
• Provide input on materials, construction techniques, and process improvements to enhance efficiency.
• Create and maintain bills of materials for projects and assist in procurement.

Workshop & Process Management

• Maintain a tidy, organised, and efficient workspace to support smooth operations.
• Identify and implement process improvements to streamline production workflows.
• Ensure tools and equipment are properly maintained and report any maintenance needs.
• Assist in stock management, including storage and inventory of materials and consumables.
• Contribute to the upkeep and refurbishment of the workshop environment.

On-Site & Studio Work

• Assist with rigging, de-rigging, and on-site installations as required.
• Ensure all onsite work aligns with project objectives and health and safety protocols.

Health, Safety & Team Supervision

• Adhere to all health and safety guidelines, reporting any risks or unsafe conditions.
• Support and supervise freelance staff and work placement students as needed.
• Promote a collaborative, solution-focused team environment.
• Participate in training and development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge.

Required Skills & Attributes

Technical Skills

• Strong practical experience in prop-making, set building, and scenic painting.
• Skilled in using woodworking, metalworking, and sculpting tools and techniques.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings, design specifications, and project briefs.
• Knowledge of different materials, adhesives, and finishing techniques.
• Desirable but not essential - experience with CNC machines, 3D printing, and digital fabrication.

Project & Team Management

• Ability to lead a team and manage project timelines effectively.
• Strong communication skills to liaise with Directors, Project Managers, and workshop teams.
• Experience in setting fabrication deadlines and ensuring timely completion of projects.

Workplace Efficiency & Organisation

• Highly organised with excellent attention to detail.
• Ability to maintain a tidy and structured workspace to enhance productivity.
• Proactive in identifying and implementing process improvements within the team.
• Experience in maintaining stock levels and managing material inventories.

Personal Attributes

• A problem-solver with a hands-on, can-do attitude.
• Able to work efficiently under pressure and to tight deadlines.
• Flexible and adaptable, able to switch between different projects and tasks.
• Eye for detail. In the application form, one of the final questions is "What is the answer?" - the answer is "tomato".
• Passionate about high-quality workmanship and innovative production techniques.

Apply

If you are interested in applying, please complete this application form. - Application Form