About the Role
The Head of Electrics is responsible for the stage sound and lighting and the realisation of technical services for all performances and events within agreed schedules and budgets. They also work closely with the Technical and Buildings Manager to ensure upkeep and maintenance of the building to a high standard, coordinating with other departments and external contractors as appropriate.
In Doing So, You Will
Comply with Health & Safety regulations.
Comply with all licensing and building regulations.
Comply with all company policies and codes of practice.
Minimise the Trust’s environmental impact and promote sustainability.
Main Responsibilities
Production
Liaise with incoming design, production, technical staff and suppliers to ensure all technical requirements are met for productions and events.
Coordinate staff scheduling, budgetary controls and get‑ins/get‑outs with management and other technical departments.
Supervise fit‑ups including lighting and sound, and oversee rigging, focus, plot and operation of lighting and sound during performances.
Building & Maintenance
Ensure compliance with health and safety legislation and company policy, fire risk assessments and licensing regulations.
Maintain electrical installations and equipment, including independent inspection and certification.
Conduct regular building inspections, liaison with relevant departments and manage maintenance works.
Implement restoration and major maintenance projects with the Technical and Buildings Manager, supervise external contractors and ensure safe working practices.
Maintain documentation, records and purchase/stock levels for the department.
Manage plumbing maintenance within the building when required.
Management & Administration
Interview, induct and supervise new staff in liaison with the Technical and Buildings Manager and the Managing Director.
Determine staffing rota, supply weekly timesheets and holiday requests.
Ensure staff are trained on electrical procedures and working practices.
Source and purchase materials and equipment, ensuring all expenditure is pre‑approved and paperwork completed.
Maintain health & safety records and conduct appraisals and probationary reviews for departmental staff.
Additional Duties
Serve as duty electrician cover during day and performance hours, covering rostered with the Deputy Head of Electrics.
Provide first aid cover.
Act as building key holder when required.
Support Trust activities such as Creative New Writing programmes and Technical Skills Workshops.
You will have
Essential
Professional theatre experience in lighting, sound and building electrics.
Computer literacy (Word, Excel, Outlook).
Knowledge of health and safety procedures, method statements and risk assessments.
Experience in maintenance, programming and operation of automated fixtures.
Experience with ETC (ION) lighting consoles and networking.
Experience of working at height and access equipment training.
Ability to work as part of a team and under own initiative.
Previous line management experience.
Commitment to customer care with a welcoming personality.
Attention to detail, good time management and the ability to meet deadlines under pressure.
Positive, hands‑on attitude and creative problem‑solving skills.
Good written and oral communication skills.
Desirable
A relevant electrical installation qualification.
Experience with design software (CAD, Vectorworks) and computer networking.
Basic sound knowledge, including setting up small systems and playback.
Health and safety qualification.
First aid at work qualification.
Job Details
Reporting Into: Managing Director
Contract Type: Permanent Position
Start Date: As soon as possible or beginning April 2026
Location: Criterion Theatre, Piccadilly Circus, London
Salary: SOLT/BECTU Grade 1 (£22.98 per hour) plus overtime where applicable
Other Benefits
20 days paid annual leave plus bank holidays
Off‑site and cross‑department training opportunities
Employee Assistance Programme – confidential wellbeing and mental health support
Auto‑enrolment pension contributions & salary sacrifice scheme
Application Process
We’re excited to welcome a new Head of Electrics to our team! To apply, please send:
Your CV.
A short personal statement (about 300 words) telling us a little about yourself, why you’re interested, what you can bring to the role, and what you hope to gain.
Email your application to: recruitment@criterion-theatre.co.uk with the subject line Head of Electrics Application – Your Name. Closing date: Sunday, 8th March 2026.
There will be a two‑stage interview process, with first‑round interviews taking place on the 12th/13th March 2026.
For any questions or alternative formats, contact Aileen Zainiuddin via email aileen@criterion-theatre.co.uk or phone 020 7839 8811.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive environment where everyone is treated with respect and fairness. We warmly encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences.
Legal
All applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK. Visa sponsorship is not available.
Any offer of employment will be subject to a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check where required.
Finding out more
To learn more about the Criterion Theatre, our values, current productions, and the history of the venue, please visit https://www.criterion-theatre.co.uk.
Thank you for your interest. Becoming part of The Criterion Trust means joining a legacy. It means shaping the stage where stories come alive – stories that uplift, challenge, and connect.
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