WABC Head Stagehand

Disney Entertainment’s eight-owned ABC stations are multiplatform leaders in local news and information. WABC-TV has been the leader in local news in the New York City area for more than 60 years. Producing more than 45 hours of live, local news and weather each week, Channel 7 “Eyewitness News” is the most-watched local news in New York and the United States. Quality news and programming, groundbreaking technology, and ongoing community outreach are the hallmarks of excellence that have consistently kept WABC-TV New York’s No. 1 station and the most-watched television station in the nation.

This position is covered by the IATSE Local 1- ABC Television Network and WABC-TV collective bargaining agreement.

Role Summary:

WABC is seeking a Head Stagehand to join our team of stagehands. The ideal candidate will have experience in stage production and a strong attention to detail.

Responsibilities: 

• Participates in the construction, installation, and teardown of sets for both regular programming and special productions. Collaborate with art department, designers, and engineers on custom scenic solutions.
• Operates the studio’s production automation systems, working closely with technical directors and control room staff to synchronize lighting, scenic elements, and effects for seamless on-air execution.
• Closely collaborate with the other stagehands and production team members.
• Consult with management regarding the supervision and assignment of the Local 1 crew

Required Qualifications & Skills:

• A minimum of three years of experience working on a stage crew or in a broadcast studio.
• Must be able to have the ability to multi-task on the fly.
• Qualified applicants should have the flexibility to work early hours, weekends, and beyond scheduled out times when production dictates.
• Familiarity with ETC lighting consoles or equivalent equipment is a plus.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in live TV studio operations is preferred.
• Theatrical production experience is helpful.
• Experience operating  Genie or Scissor lifts is preferred.

Required Education:

• High School diploma or equivalent

Preferred Education:

• A college degree, technical school certificate, and union-accredited training are preferred.

The hiring range for this position in New York is $42.387 per hour based on a 40 hour work week. The amount of hours scheduled per week may vary based on business needs. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.