Although cruise experience is helpful, the requirements for stage technician jobs on cruises are basically the same as land based positions. Stage technicians must have basic knowledge of carpentry, including tool use, metalworking, and woodworking. They must have above average computer skills, and they must be physically fit. State technicians will spend a significant part of their day placing and moving scenery, moving furniture, and moving and operating equipment.
In addition to the skills listed above, stage technicians are responsible for installing and maintaining stage lighting and related technical systems. They perform routine repair work, and they control production-specific machines. Stage technicians have a variety of “clerical” tasks as well, such as checking out equipment, maintaining inventory records, and requisitioning equipment.
According to SchoolsintheUSA.com, “stage technicians may be found across the country and around the world working in television, theaters, films, concert halls, civic centers, auditoriums, sporting arenas, and other similar facilities. They may also tour with musical groups and theater companies.” Depending on the venue, stage technicians work long and irregular hours. They are usually the first to show up and the last to leave.
To become a stage technician on cruise ships, training in carpentry and rigging may be helpful. A background in theater is useful as well as experience through an apprenticeship, theater company, or production company. Stage technicians with training and experience typically average $3400-$4200 per month. Please note that most cruise lines do not have apprenticeship programs for stage technicians.
To apply for positions, simply locate several cruise lines by visiting the Ships and Cruised Directory at www.shipsandcruises.com for official listings. Once you have located the site, visit the website and search around for job postings. Most cruise line websites have a career center or job postings page. If the cruise line lists job openings, be sure to follow the application procedure to the letter. Applicants that do not follow directions are typically passed over in favor of those that do. If the cruise line does not list job openings on its site, send a polished cover letter and resume to the cruise lines Human Resources Department. The Human Resources Department is typically located at the cruise lines headquarters. This information is usually listed on the cruise line website. It is important to include the position you are interested in so that it can be directed to the appropriate department manager.
For more information about jobs on cruise ships visit Cruise Ship Jobs online. Here, you can download the 2010 cruise ship employment guide; you can read through cruise line profiles; you can find out which ships are hiring and for what positions — and you can even apply for a cruise ship job right online. Please note that this website charges a fee. You can apply for a job on your own, free of charge, sign up with a placement agency, or use Cruise Ship Jobs’ service.
Cruise Ship Job Perks
Cruise ship employees will enjoy more than free travel to exciting destinations. Cruise ship employees receive free accommodations and meals. They also receive health insurance, retirement benefits, and free air travel to and from the ship.