At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead metalwork activities in a creative scenic construction environment for world-class performances.
- Company: Join the Royal Ballet and Opera, a cultural icon in London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive workplace, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team crafting stunning sets for iconic performances.
- Qualifications: Metalwork qualification and experience in large-scale theatre set construction required.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace committed to supporting all applicants.
The predicted salary is between 48738 - 61000 £ per year.
Metalwork Assistant Manager, Scenic Construction – Purfleet
Permanent
Full time (42.5 hours per week)
Salary: £48,738.07
Based in: Purfleet, Essex
The Royal Ballet and Opera continues to lead the way in opera, ballet, music and dance both live on stage and through multiple digital platforms, from live streaming to worldwide cinema screenings. Our Covent Garden theatre has been at the heart of London and British cultural life for three centuries. We are home to two world-class Companies:The Royal Ballet andThe Royal Opera .
We currently have some exciting opportunities to join the Royal Ballet and Opera Scenic Carpentry team at the Bob and Tamar Manoukian Production Workshop, our purpose built state-of-the-art 3750 square metre building in Purfleet, Essex. The site contains a scenic construction carpentry workshop, metal workshop, paint studio and fit up area, enabling us to make scenery for the Royal Opera and Royal Ballet companies.
We are looking to hire an Assistant Manager (Metalwork), to support the Senior Manager, by taking responsibility for the Scenic Metalwork activities of the Workshop, ensuring that all activities are carried out to the highest possible standard of safety, efficiency, and quality. To deliver activities within agreed resources and budgets. To provide effective leadership and management of staff.
This role will suit a candidate who can demonstrate strong creative crafting skills within a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate will have:
- A recognised metalwork/welding qualification is essential.
- Knowledge and experience of metalwork manufacture using modern and traditional techniques.
- Metalwork skills include sheet metalwork, welding steel/aluminum structures which are sometimes flown (an understanding of stress and strength is essential).
- Experience of constructing large-scale sets for theatre venues or companies is essential.
- Technical drawing experience with use of calculation for working out complex geometry
- Ability to manage projects allocating work to achieve the desired deadlines.
How to apply:
A full job description and RBO information pack is attached below. If you have any access requirements for your application, please contact the RBO Recruitment Team on
Closing date for applications:8am, Friday 12th September 2025.
The Royal Ballet and Opera is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment in which everyone can thrive. We particularly welcome applications from those who arefrom a global majority background and/or those who aredisabled,as they are under-represented within our organisation. As a Disability Confident Employer, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential minimum criteria for our vacancies.
Metalwork Assistant Manager, Scenic Construction - Purfleet employer: ROYAL BALLET AND OPERA
Contact Detail:
ROYAL BALLET AND OPERA Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Metalwork Assistant Manager, Scenic Construction - Purfleet
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Bring a portfolio of your best work to interviews or networking events. If you've got experience in metalwork or scenic construction, let it shine through with photos or even small samples of your projects.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by researching the company and its projects. Knowing about the Royal Ballet and Opera's recent productions can help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and really keen on the role. Don’t forget to follow up after applying; a little nudge can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Metalwork Assistant Manager, Scenic Construction - Purfleet
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills: Make sure to highlight your metalwork and welding qualifications right at the start. We want to see your experience with both modern and traditional techniques, so don’t hold back on those details!
Tailor Your Application: Take a moment to read through the job description and match your skills to what we’re looking for. Use similar language and examples from your past work that align with the role of Assistant Manager in our Scenic Construction team.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your experience and qualifications shine without unnecessary fluff. Remember, we’re busy making magic happen!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity with the Royal Ballet and Opera.
How to prepare for a job interview at ROYAL BALLET AND OPERA
✨Know Your Metalwork Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your metalwork and welding techniques before the interview. Be ready to discuss your experience with both modern and traditional methods, as well as any large-scale set construction you've been involved in. This will show that you're not just familiar with the basics but can also handle complex projects.
✨Show Off Your Creative Side
Since this role requires strong creative crafting skills, think of examples where you've used your creativity in metalwork. Prepare to share specific projects or challenges you've faced and how you approached them. This will help demonstrate your ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
✨Get Familiar with Technical Drawings
Brush up on your technical drawing skills and be prepared to discuss how you've used calculations for complex geometry in past projects. Being able to articulate your understanding of these concepts will show that you can manage projects effectively and allocate work efficiently.
✨Leadership is Key
As an Assistant Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your leadership abilities. Think of times when you've successfully managed a team or project. Be ready to discuss your approach to ensuring safety, efficiency, and quality in the workshop, as well as how you motivate and guide your colleagues.