Earn £35,000/YEAR Working As a Technician – University of Warwick

The University of Warwick was officially established in 1965, following government approval in 1961 and the granting of its Royal Charter in 1965. The university’s inception was the result of a collaborative effort between the City of Coventry and Warwickshire County Council, who jointly provided a 400-acre site for the campus. This partnership underscored a shared commitment to expanding higher education in the region, leading to the university admitting its first small cohort of graduate students in 1964 and welcoming 450 undergraduates in October 1965. ​

As a public research university, the University of Warwick operates under a governance structure typical of UK higher education institutions, without private ownership. It is led by a Chancellor, who serves as the ceremonial head and a Vice-Chancellor, responsible for the university’s academic and administrative functions. Over the years, the university has expanded significantly, incorporating institutions such as the former Coventry College of Education in 1979 which became its Westwood campus. ​

The university’s growth is also reflected in its diverse academic offerings and research initiatives. Notably, the Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG) was established in 1980 by Professor Lord Bhattacharyya to revitalize UK manufacturing through research and knowledge transfer. WMG has since evolved into a multidisciplinary department, engaging in various sectors beyond manufacturing, including healthcare and digital technologies. ​

In addition to WMG, the university has developed other specialized departments and facilities. The Warwick Business School, founded in 1967 and the Warwick Law School, established in 1968, are prominent examples.

The university also operates the University of Warwick Science Park, inaugurated in 1984 as a joint venture with local authorities and industry partners, providing a hub for innovation and collaboration between academia and business. ​

Today, the University of Warwick is recognized for its academic excellence and research contributions. It is a member of the prestigious Russell Group, representing 24 leading public research universities in the UK.

The university’s commitment to fostering strong industry links and entrepreneurial initiatives has earned it a reputation as a forward-thinking institution, continually adapting to the evolving landscape of higher education and research.

Technician Role – University of Warwick (107171-0325)

• Location: University of Warwick Campus, Coventry
• Department: School for Creative Arts, Performance and Visual Cultures
• Employment Type: Permanent
• Salary Range: £30,805 – £34,132 per annum
• Work Schedule: Includes weekend availability

This position presents an exciting opportunity for an individual with a background in live events who has a keen interest in education and hands-on technical work. The successful candidate will become an essential part of a dedicated and dynamic team operating within a higher education setting known for its vibrancy and diversity.

The School for Creative Arts, Performance and Visual Cultures (SCAPVC) at the University of Warwick is seeking to appoint a full-time technician for a permanent role. While this position is advertised as a full-time opportunity (36.5 hours per week), the university welcomes applications from those interested in part-time work, job-sharing arrangements or other forms of flexible working. Consideration for flexible working arrangements will be given unless there are operational constraints that make such arrangements impractical.

The role will require close collaboration with students and faculty members, particularly those engaged in practice-based coursework and live performance events. The successful candidate will be tasked with ensuring that the school’s specialist equipment and spaces are well-maintained and fully functional, playing a crucial role in the smooth delivery of the department’s teaching and events.

For further details or informal discussions about this role, interested applicants are encouraged to contact Ian O’Donoghue (Technical Supervisor) at I.F.C.O-Donoghue@warwick.ac.uk.

Your Responsibilities as a Technician

The appointed technician will oversee the efficient and effective operation of the school’s technical equipment and facilities. This role demands a proactive approach to managing installations, conducting maintenance and ensuring that all equipment is available and functioning optimally to support student projects and academic events.

Key duties include:

• Managing Technical Installations:
  The technician will be responsible for the installation, operation and maintenance of SCAPVC’s specialist equipment. This equipment is critical to practice-based coursework and the execution of live events. The role demands strong organizational skills to ensure that all installations are carried out smoothly, with minimal disruption to scheduled activities.

• Supporting Student Learning and Development:
  A vital aspect of this role involves working directly with undergraduate students, providing technical training that enhances their skill sets and contributes to their professional development. Through hands-on guidance, the technician will support students in acquiring transferable skills that can be applied in various creative and technical industries.

• Liaising with Faculty and Students on Project Feasibility:
  The technician will work closely with faculty members and students to discuss the feasibility of different projects. This includes advising on the technical requirements, guiding students on the best approaches to executing their creative ideas and ensuring that the necessary resources – such as performance spaces, tools and technical support – are available when needed.

• Maintenance and Equipment Upkeep:
  Ensuring that all technical equipment is in good working order is a key component of the role. The technician will be responsible for reporting any maintenance issues to the Technical Supervisor and taking proactive steps to ensure that all equipment remains in optimal condition. In addition, they will manage consumable stock levels, ensuring that essential supplies are readily available.

• Collaborating on Development Projects:
  Beyond day-to-day responsibilities, the technician will contribute to the development and enhancement of specialist equipment and spaces. This may involve participating in planning and implementing upgrades, optimizing existing resources and suggesting innovative improvements to enhance the learning and creative experience within the department.

• Technical Support for Live Events and Performances:
  Given the nature of SCAPVC’s focus on creative arts and performance, the technician will play a crucial role in providing technical support during live performances and events. This requires an in-depth understanding of stage setup, lighting, sound and other essential production elements.

Ideal Candidate Profile

The University of Warwick is looking for an experienced professional with a strong background in the entertainment industry, particularly in live production arts. The ideal candidate should have expertise in technical installations, equipment management and student mentorship, along with a passion for working in a higher education environment.

Key qualifications and skills include:

1. Extensive Experience in the Entertainment Industry:

   • The role requires a solid background in live event production, performance arts or stagecraft.
   • Candidates should be adept at handling technical setups in theatre, film, television or live music events.
   • Practical knowledge of industry-standard equipment is essential.

2. Strong Independent Working Capabilities:

   • The technician must be capable of working autonomously, taking initiative to identify and resolve technical issues without constant supervision.
   • They should be comfortable making critical decisions regarding event setup and equipment operation.

3. Excellent Communication and Collaboration Skills:

   • The role involves constant interaction with students, faculty members, designers and artists.
   • Strong interpersonal skills are essential for effective communication and teamwork.

4. Technical Knowledge of Performance Media:

   • The ideal candidate should have a sound technical background in live performance production.
   • Knowledge of lighting, audio systems, video projection and other performance technologies is highly desirable.

5. Flexibility to Work Evenings and Weekends:

   • Some responsibilities will require work outside standard hours, particularly during rehearsals, performances and special events.
   • The ability to work occasional evenings and weekends is a key requirement for this role.

6. Design Experience (Preferred but Not Essential):

   • Experience in designing stage setups, lighting rigs or audiovisual presentations is advantageous.

For a complete list of essential and desirable skills, applicants should refer to the personal specification section in the attached job description.

About the School for Creative Arts, Performance and Visual Cultures (SCAPVC)

Established in August 2019, SCAPVC integrates multiple disciplines, including:

• Theatre and Performance Studies
• Warwick Writing Programme
• Film and Television Studies
• History of Art
• Centre for Cultural Policy Studies

The school offers a broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, emphasizing both theoretical and practical learning. In January 2022, SCAPVC relocated to a state-of-the-art Faculty of Arts Building (FAB), designed to support innovative teaching and research in the arts.

Founded in the 1960s, the University of Warwick has established itself as a top-tier, research-intensive institution. It is globally recognized for academic excellence, research contributions and innovation.

Key Rankings & Achievements

• Ranked 67th in the world and 10th in the UK (QS World University Rankings 2024)
• 92% of research output classified as “world-leading” or “internationally excellent” (Research Excellence Framework 2021)

Warwick fosters a diverse and forward-thinking community that values creativity, collaboration and academic rigor. It is an institution committed to driving real-world impact through its research, teaching and student engagement.

For more information, visit the University of Warwick’s official website.

How to Apply

Application Deadline:

• Monday, 24th March 2025, at 11:55 PM
• Late submissions will not be accepted, so applicants are advised to complete their applications well in advance.

Required Documents:

1. CV:

   • Should highlight recent employment, relevant experience and educational background.

2. Cover Letter:

   • Must demonstrate how the applicant meets the essential criteria outlined in the job description.

Applicants must submit their applications via the official University of Warwick application portal before the deadline.

If an applicant does not currently have the right to work in the UK and requires a Skilled Worker visa sponsorship, they should refer to the University of Warwick’s official guidance on obtaining work authorization in the UK. Further details can be found through the university’s HR resources.

Here are 10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Technician role at the University of Warwick:

1. What are the working hours for this Technician role?

The position is full-time, requiring 36.5 hours per week. However, the university is open to considering part-time or job-share arrangements depending on operational feasibility.

2. Does the role require evening or weekend work?

Yes, occasional evening and weekend work may be required, particularly during rehearsals, performances and live events. The role involves supporting students and faculty in delivering coursework and events.

3. What type of experience is required for this role?

Applicants should have significant experience in the entertainment industry, particularly in live event production, performance arts or stagecraft. Experience with technical installations, lighting, audio systems and stage setups is preferred.

4. Is the university willing to sponsor a visa for international applicants?

The university may consider sponsorship for a Skilled Worker visa for eligible candidates. Applicants needing a visa should check Warwick’s official Right to Work in the UK policy for further guidance.

5. What are the key responsibilities of this role?

The Technician will be responsible for:

• Installing, maintaining and operating specialist equipment
• Training and mentoring undergraduate students
• Supporting faculty and students in project feasibility and execution
• Assisting with live performances and events
• Ensuring the upkeep and availability of technical resources

6. What qualifications or skills are preferred?

A sound technical background in live production arts is crucial. Strong communication skills, ability to work independently and experience liaising with designers and artists are also highly valued. Design experience is a plus.

7. Where is the role based?

The position is located at the University of Warwick Campus, Coventry, within the School for Creative Arts, Performance and Visual Cultures (SCAPVC).

8. What is the salary range for this role?

The salary for the position ranges between £30,805 – £34,132 per annum, depending on experience and qualifications.

9. What documents are required for the application?

Applicants must submit:

• A CV outlining employment history, relevant experience and education
• A cover letter explaining how they meet the essential criteria of the role

10. When is the application deadline?

The deadline for applications is Monday, 24th March 2025, at 11:55 PM. Late submissions will not be accepted, so applicants are advised to complete their applications well in advance.

Would you like any additional FAQs tailored to specific aspects of the role?