SFX / Pyrotechnics Technician
ImageSFX is seeking experienced Special Effects and Pyrotechnics Technicians to join our growing network of freelance and subcontractor talent for upcoming live entertainment projects.
This is a general interest submission for qualified professionals interested in being considered for future project-based opportunities. Work may include concert tours, residencies, festivals, corporate events, broadcast productions, sporting events, and other large-scale live entertainment environments throughout the United States and internationally.
Responsibilities
SFX / Pyrotechnics Technicians may be responsible for:
- Installing, operating, troubleshooting, maintaining, and striking professional special effects and pyrotechnic systems
- Supporting effects including pyrotechnics, flame systems, cryogenic effects, atmospheric effects, confetti, streamers, low fog, and other specialty effects
- Preparing and testing equipment prior to rehearsals and performances
- Installing equipment, control systems, cabling, hoses, distribution systems, and associated infrastructure
- Performing pre-show inspections, system checks, and safety checks
- Operating and executing effects cues in coordination with show calling and other production departments
- Maintaining appropriate safety distances, exclusion zones, and operating procedures
- Handling and maintaining equipment in accordance with manufacturer specifications and ImageSFX procedures
- Troubleshooting equipment and system issues in fast-paced live production environments
- Assisting with loading, unloading, inventory, preparation, and transportation of equipment
- Maintaining accurate equipment and operational documentation when required
- Following all applicable federal, state, local, venue, permitting, licensing, and ImageSFX safety requirements
- Working collaboratively with production management, artists, touring personnel, venue teams, local authorities, and other production departments
Preferred Qualifications
Ideal candidates will have:
- Previous professional experience with special effects and/or pyrotechnics in concerts, touring, festivals, residencies, corporate events, sporting events, or similar live entertainment environments
- Hands-on experience with professional touring-grade SFX equipment and control systems
- Experience with pyrotechnics, flame effects, cryogenic systems, confetti/streamer systems, atmospherics, or other live special effects
- Strong understanding of entertainment-industry safety practices and procedures
- Familiarity with permitting, licensing, fire-safety, and venue requirements related to special effects and pyrotechnics
- Ability to read technical drawings, plots, cue sheets, and production documentation
- Strong mechanical and technical troubleshooting skills
- Ability to safely work around pressurized systems, electrical systems, flame effects, pyrotechnics, and other specialty equipment
- Ability to work independently while remaining collaborative with the larger production team
- Excellent communication and professionalism in client-facing environments
- Ability to work long and irregular hours associated with live entertainment production
- Ability and willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required
- Current passport and ability to travel preferred
- State or local pyrotechnic licenses, certifications, OSHA training, or other applicable credentials are a plus
Engagement Type
This is a freelance/subcontractor opportunity and not a posting for a specific full-time position. Submitting your information allows ImageSFX to consider you for future projects based on experience, qualifications, availability, location, licensing, and project requirements.