How to become a Production Crew Member
Production crew members look after the setting up, dismantling, removal and maintenance of music and theatre production equipment for stage performances. They also transport and maintain equipment between shows.
Personal requirements for a Production Crew Member
- Able to work as part of a team
- Able to cope with the physical demands of the job
- Able to work under pressure and at heights
- Flexible attitude toward working hours and conditions
- Creativity
Education & Training for a Production Crew Member
You can work as a production crew member without formal qualifications. You will probably get some informal training on the job. Entry to this occupation may be improved if you have qualifications and you may want to consider a VET course. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information.You can also become a production crew member through a traineeship. Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.
Duties & Tasks of a Production Crew Member
Production crew members:
- Implement stage design under the direction of the stage manager
- Select and position sound and lighting equipment
- Carry, maintain and repair production equipment
- Arrange for transportation of equipment to remote locations
- Arrange and connect cables to the electrical supply using portable junction boxes
- Monitor security and handle cash.
Tasks
- Dresses actors during shooting and performance.
- Selects and attaches equipment to cameras.
- Sets up and adjusts equipment such as microphones, and booms.
- Positions equipment during filming, broadcasting and stage performances.
- Operates microwave equipment to transmit video information to transmitter sites and receives video signals from remote locations.
Working conditions for a Production Crew Member
Production crew members may be required to travel long distances and to remote locations when on tour with a show. They work irregular hours or shifts.
Employment Opportunities for a Production Crew Member
Production crew members are employed by theatre groups, production companies, event venues and touring bands. Competition for entry-level positions is very strong. Applicants are required to have experience, which can be gained through voluntary work experience in related areas.
Specializations
Production Crew Member
Production crew members look after the setting up, dismantling, removal and maintenance of music and theatre production equipment for stage performances. They also transport and maintain equipment between shows.
Average age
36
Future Growth
N/A
Gender Share
28% female
Average full-time
47 hours
Weekly Pay
N/A
Skill level rating
Very high skill
Unemployment
Average unemployment
Full-Time Share
70%
Employment Size
1,600
Employment by state
ACT: 1.6%
NSW: 35.8%
NT: 0.3%
QLD: 19.6%
SA: 5.3%
TAS: 0.9%
VIC: 29.6%
WA: 6.9%
Age brackets
15-19: 2.4%
20-24: 11.1%
25-34: 26.9%
35-44: 24.8%
45-54: 22.2%
55-59: 6.7%
60-64: 3.8%
65 and Over: 2.1%
Education level
Advanced Diploma/Diploma: 19.2%
Bachelor degree: 28.3%
Certificate III/IV: 18.6%
Post Graduate/Graduate Diploma or Graduate Certificate: 3.2%
Year 10 and below: 5.5%
Year 11: 2.5%
Year 12: 22.7%
