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Technical Director/Automation

Free Association Live

New York CityPosted Jul 1, 2026

Job description

  • Compensation:

  • Pre-Production fixed fee of $10,000.00

  • Weekly salary 40 hours per week - $2,500. Salary to commence June 8, 2026 through press opening which is slated to be on or about October 22 nd , 2026

  • 5x after 8 hours in a day and after 40 hours in a week

  • Commencing on or about October 26, 2026, a Weekly Supervision Fee: $250.00 per week – to include daily review of show reports, check in and supervisory calls with Show Crew & Shops. Occasional in-theater visits as needed to keep an eye on the rig and assess crew performance.

  • Day rate in Theater for actual work calls post opening: $50 per hour. All work calls must be approved by management before any work commences.

  • All payments outlined above to be subject to company’s payroll policies.

  • Travel Outside NYC: (If Required and pre-approved)

  • Coach/economy air travel within the continental US

  • Local transfers to/from airports as required

  • Excess baggage fees if any

  • Inflight WIFI fees if any

  • Out of Pocket Expense Reimbursement:

  • Reimbursement for all pre-approved out-of-pocket production expense.

  • Reimbursement for out-of-pocket local transportation when required for business or meetings (not to include commuting to/from work).


Core Responsibilities

  • Technical Design & Coordination of Automation, Rigging & Aerial: Coordinate all aspects of constructed automation, rigging and aerial plans with production management, the project design team, creative team, consultants, contractors and production department heads to ensure automation, rigging, aerial and related scenic systems are installed and operate as required.
  • Shop Prep: Oversee technical design and build of the automation, aerial, rigging and associated scenic, lighting and audio systems, including shop prep, shop prep labor and all advance paperwork.
  • Automation: Oversee the technical design and implementation of set-mounted automation, safety systems and control systems as they pertain to Scenery, Lighting, Audio and Decore elements.
  • Aerial Automation & Rigging: Oversee the technical design and implementation of aerial automation & rigging, slide rails, zip lines, safety systems and control systems as they pertain to aerial acts in the production.
  • Show Operation & Crew Supervision: Assist Production Manager in identifying and hiring of Show Crew personnel. Coordinate and oversee all work performed by the local rigging and automation show crew, board operators, and SM’s (as it pertains to automation or aerial) during load-ins, tech rehearsals, and performances. Establish best practices and systems for crew and performer safety when working at height.
  • Implementation: Interpret structural drawings, automation equipment specs, and designer schematics to execute the artistic vision.
  • Installation, Testing & Programming: Oversee the installation, testing and programming for all automation, aerial and production rigging systems and components by production crews or contractors. Work directly with Aerial Choreographer, Director and other artistic personnel to program the show. Design and set up automation and rigging racks with other department heads.
  • Equipment Maintenance: Oversee maintenance, repair, and testing of automation, aerial and rigging equipment, cables, and rigging components to ensure rigorous safety and performance standards.
  • Safety & Code Compliance: Ensure all power supplies, drops, and automation electrical elements adhere to both safety codes and venue standards.
  • Post-Opening Show Maintenance: Monitor daily show reports; assist Production Management and Show crew as needed with the long-term operation and maintenance of the automation, aerial and rigging systems. Establish maintenance logging and replacement protocols for all aerial and rigging components as needed.

Key Skills & Requirements

  • Technical Proficiency: Deep understanding of traditional theatrical rigging, aerial performer rigging & methods, crew and performer life safety methods, automation & associated life safety systems, stage power distribution and data control networks.
  • Equipment Familiarity: Expertise with all manner of aerial hardware and materials, PRG automation equipment, industry standard chain motors & controllers, industry standard rigging materials and components.
  • Physical & Spatial Aptitude: Ability to work at heights (on ladders, lifts, and catwalks), lift heavy equipment, and tolerate long hours during tech periods.
  • Collaboration: Strong communication skills to liaise effectively between the aerial choreographer, director, designers, production management, technical director, stage management, and other department heads.

About Magic Mike Live: Created and co-directed by Channing Tatum, MAGIC MIKE LIVE is a 360-degree dance and acrobatic spectacular featuring a comedic storyline and bold, immersive production design.

The 90-minute production blends live entertainment and hospitality into a unique night out in New York City. Equal parts empowering and exhilarating, the show delivers an unforgettable experience — perfect for date nights, celebrations, and the ultimate girl’s night out — leaving guests energized and ready to ignite the magic within.

MAGIC MIKE LIVE shows are mature in nature, which we define as including strong language, adult themes, and sexual content of a non-explicit nature. Our work environment is professional and respectful, but candidates should be comfortable working with mature themes daily as a normal part of their professional responsibilities.

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