At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead metalwork activities in a creative scenic construction environment.
- Company: Join the iconic Royal Ballet and Opera team in Purfleet.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time hours, and a vibrant workplace culture.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with opportunities for growth.
- Why this job: Be part of creating stunning sets for world-class performances.
- Qualifications: Metalwork qualification and experience in large-scale theatre set construction required.
The predicted salary is between 48738 - 48738 £ per year.
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 and The 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/aluminium 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 are from a global majority background and/or those who are disabled, 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
The Royal Ballet and Opera offers a unique opportunity to work in a vibrant and creative environment at the state-of-the-art Bob and Tamar Manoukian Production Workshop in Purfleet, Essex. As an employer, we prioritise employee growth through continuous training and development, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. With competitive salaries and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, we ensure that every team member can thrive while contributing to the magic of world-class performances.
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 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. For a role like Metalwork Assistant Manager, showcasing your metalwork projects can really set you apart and demonstrate your hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the unexpected! Be ready for practical tests or technical questions during interviews. Brush up on your knowledge of metalwork techniques and safety standards to impress the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the Royal Ballet and Opera team.
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 showcasing your best projects!
Tailor Your Application:Read through the job description carefully and tailor your application to match. Use similar language and keywords that we’ve used, especially when talking about your experience in scenic construction and managing projects.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read. Make sure to include all relevant details without going off on a tangent!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super straightforward!
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 qualifications and experiences in detail, especially any projects where you've used both modern and traditional methods. This will show that you're not just qualified but also passionate about your craft.
✨Showcase Your Creative Side
Since this role involves scenic construction, think of examples where you've applied your creative skills in a fast-paced environment. Prepare to talk about specific large-scale sets you've constructed and how you approached the design and execution. This will highlight your ability to blend creativity with technical skills.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As an Assistant Manager, you'll need to lead a team effectively. Think of instances where you've managed projects or allocated work to meet deadlines. Be ready to share how you motivate and guide your team, ensuring safety and quality standards are met.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Technical Drawings
Since technical drawing experience is essential, make sure you can discuss how you've used calculations for complex geometry in past projects. Bring examples if possible, and be prepared to explain your thought process when interpreting and executing these drawings.
