A2

The Paramount Theatre/Aurora Civic Center Authority (ACCA), an innovative organization located on Stolp Island in the Fox River in the heart of the richly diverse community of historic Aurora, Illinois (one hour from downtown Chicago), is seeking an A2. ACCA is the parent organization, which also includes a 501(c)3 arm under the name of Paramount Arts Centre, Inc. It operates four performance venues: the 6,000-person RiverEdge Park, the 1,843-seat landmark Paramount Theatre, the 165-seat, newly renovated Copley Theatre, and the brand new Stolp Island Theatre: a 9,000 square foot development that includes an intimate 98-seat 4,600 square foot theater. ACCA produces and presents over 500 performances each year, including star-studded touring productions, a self-produced Broadway Series of musicals (which has the largest theater subscription base in the country) and the self-produced Bold Series for an annual audience of 350,000 patrons from over 250 communities. ACCA proudly operates the Paramount School of the Arts in the new John C. Dunham Aurora Arts Center, right next door to Paramount Theatre in downtown Aurora. Paramount Theatre also hosts free community events, $1 Classic Movie Mondays and its opulent interiors provide a spectacular backdrop for private functions such as wedding receptions or corporate galas. Across the street from Paramount Theatre are the gorgeous Meyer Ballrooms, which play host to multiple wedding receptions and rental events throughout the year.

The Paramount Theatre/Aurora Civic Center Authority is committed to being a defining catalyst for personal and community transformation by:

·         making the performing arts accessible for every age and socioeconomic background,

·         introducing the magic of live theater across generations to encourage expansive imaginations and broad views of people and the world,

·         and contributing to the future stability and growth of Aurora’s downtown.

The highest purpose of any theater is to inspire its community toward a more perfect humanity. Such humanity can exist only when every member of the community is included and valued, empowered and heard. To express this truth, ACCA commits its leaders, volunteers, artists and staff to the active, continual and accountable pursuit of the following principles: equity, inclusion and diversity.

The ideal candidate possesses experience with a variety of theatrical audio equipment and has worked in a leadership role on an audio team.

DEPARTMENT – Production

DIRECT REPORTING – Audio Manager; Lead Stagehand; Crew Manager

WORKS CLOSELY WITH – Lead Stagehand; Lighting & Media Manager; Audio Manager; Technical Director; Production Management; Stage Management; Actors

POSITION STATUS & SCHEDULE – Part-time, hourly. Extended hours during tech.  Typical schedule has an 8 show week (two on Wednesdays, one Thursday, one Friday, two on Saturday, and two on Sunday). Occasional student matinees. 4 hours minimum for each daily call; overtime after 8 hours in a day. Attendance required at occasional understudy rehearsals and/or marketing events.

COMPENSATION – $30.00/hr

BENEFITS INFORMATION – This position receives paid time off in accordance with the Paid Leave for All Workers Act

HIRE DATE – As soon as July 28, 2025

POSITION SUMMARY – The A2 is responsible for the daily operation, distribution, and maintenance of microphones during the run of the show. The A2 is also responsible for labeling mic packs, creating head/ear rigs for microphones, coloring lavs, and setting up the orchestra pit before tech. This position works closely with the audio manager and A1 to ensure the orchestra pit and microphone rigs are ready in a timely manner.

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES – Work as part of a team to help carry out the artistic vision of the production and its designs. A2 works closely with Audio Designers, Managers, Stage Managers, and other crew members to maintain the integrity of the audio designs by ensuring all cues are executed properly and that all equipment is functioning properly for each performance.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES –

·         Prepare and distribute microphones at top of day

·         Perform pre-show duties including, but not limited to:

o    Start-up audio systems

o    Sound Check

o    Mic Check

o    Pit tests

o    Other tasks as necessary

·         Perform post-show duties including, but not limited to:

o    Retrieving microphones post show

o    Shutting audio systems properly

o    Charging batteries

o    Tidying/Cleaning workspace such as audio desk and audio office

o    Cleaning microphones when necessary.

·         Install, troubleshoot, and maintain sound systems, including pit microphones

·         Act as on-site contact for sound designers during tech; implement notes and facilitate requests

·         Work with management to maintain inventories and keep equipment organized throughout load-in, technical rehearsals, performances, and strike

·         Inspect and troubleshoot equipment throughout the show run

·         Notify management when issues arise that exceed available resources or expertise

·         Manage time efficiently and adapt to changing production demands

·         Creation of personalized run sheets

·         Cross train with other crew members

In addition to the duties listed above, ACCA expects the following of each employee:  adheres to ACCA’s policies and procedures; works in a safe manner; performs duties as workload necessitates; maintains a positive and respectful attitude; communicates regularly with supervisor about department issues; demonstrates efficient time management and prioritizes workload; demonstrates regular and consistent attendance and punctuality; meets productivity standards; participates in ACCA events as needed or required; and completes other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, SKILLS and ABILITIES –

·         2+ years of professional theatrical audio experience as A2

·         Experience with Dante, audio routing, wireless microphones, etc.

·         Proficient with Wireless workbench

·         Proficient with free speak clear comm programming

·         Proficient with Wavetools

·         Ability to learn the mix and cover for the A1 when needed

·         Knowledge of theatrical style, conventions and terminology

·         Strong organizational and critical thinking skills

·         Strong communication skills

·         Ability to keep a cool head and positive attitude in stressful situations

·         Ability to work with minimal supervision

·         Ability to receive constructive criticism and use it to improve future performance

·         Comfortable working at height and using ladders and power tools

·         Ability to navigate multiple flights of stairs between dressing rooms and throughout the theatre

·         Ability to work long hours, nights, and weekends in keeping with the tech, preview, and performance schedule

·         Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE, SKILLS and ABILITIES

·         Experience mixing live musicals

·         Some video and camera knowledge

·         Experience with theatrical rigging

·         Experience leading strike and load-out of audio equipment

·         First Aid and CPR certification

HOW TO APPLY

Please submit a cover letter and resume using the online job application at https://paramountaurora.com/opportunities/

Or mail/drop off to: Aurora Civic Center Authority, ATTN: (Kelly Lipsey), 8 East Galena Blvd., Suite 230, Aurora, IL 60506

ACCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, and applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, disability status, marital or familial status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.  ACCA encourages people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, women, LGBTQ individuals, people with disabilities, veterans, and others who are eager to help us achieve our vision of a diverse and inclusive community.

ACCA participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. If E-Verify cannot confirm that you are authorized to work, ACCA is required to give you written instructions and an opportunity to contact Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or Social Security Administration (SSA) so you can begin to resolve the issue before the employer can take any action against you, including terminating the employment. Employers can only use E-Verify once you have accepted a job offer and completed the Form I-9.