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Job Description
McNally Enterprises, Inc. (MEI) is a full-service live event production company specializing in scenic fabrication, staging, audio, video, lighting, rigging, and custom event environments. For over 35 years, MEI has delivered world-class productions for corporate events, award shows, conventions, concerts, trade shows, and special events throughout the United States. We are currently seeking experienced Freelance Scenic Fabricators, Carpenters, and Scenic Painters to support our growing fabrication department on a project-by-project basis. This position is ideal for individuals with experience in theatrical scenery, exhibit fabrication, custom carpentry, scenic painting, or live event production environments. Position Overview The Freelance Scenic Fabricator will be responsible for constructing, painting, finishing, and preparing scenic elements for live events and productions. Candidates should be comfortable working independently as well as collaboratively with a team of fabricators, carpenters, painters, and project managers while maintaining high standards of craftsmanship, safety, and efficiency. This role requires individuals who can adapt to changing production demands, meet tight deadlines, and take pride in producing high-quality scenic elements that support some of the industry's most exciting events. Responsibilities Complete assigned projects accurately and on schedule as directed by the Fabrication Manager and Shop Foreman. Interpret and build from technical drawings, shop drawings, blueprints, and fabrication plans provided by Scenic Technical Designers. Measure, cut, shape, assemble, finish, and join materials using industry-standard tools and equipment. Perform scenic painting, finishing, texturing, detailing, faux finishes, and touch-up work as needed. Report any issues affecting project timelines, material availability, or team workflow. Work independently and collaboratively with fellow fabricators while maintaining productivity and quality standards. Notify management when projects are ready for quality control review. Prepare completed scenic elements for packaging, staging, and loading. Wrap, move, and organize finished scenic pieces for transport and installation. Maintain fabrication equipment, machinery, and tools in safe operating condition. Maintain the quality and safe operation of scenic elements throughout fabrication and installation. Follow all shop safety procedures and proper handling practices for paints, solvents, adhesives, fillers, epoxies, and other fabrication materials. Assist in ensuring safe work practices throughout the fabrication department. Participate in load-ins, onsite installations, event builds, and strikes when required. Support additional fabrication and production-related tasks as assigned by MEI. During peak production periods, work evenings, weekends, overtime, and extended shifts as necessary to meet project deadlines. Qualifications Minimum 3 years of experience in scenic fabrication, theatrical carpentry, scenic painting, exhibit fabrication, custom millwork, woodworking, or a related field. Experience working with theatrical construction methods and scenic finish paint techniques. Ability to read, interpret, and build from technical drawings, shop drawings, blueprints, and fabrication plans. Knowledge of a wide range of fabrication tools, materials, and processes including woodworking, metalworking, welding, rigging, and CNC machinery. Proficiency with common shop equipment, hand tools, and power tools. Strong understanding of scenic construction techniques and fabrication best practices. Self-starter with the ability to learn quickly, adapt to changing production requirements, and work efficiently with minimal supervision. Excellent attention to detail and commitment to quality craftsmanship. Strong communication and teamwork skills. Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight production deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Experience in live event, theatrical, television, film, experiential marketing, trade show, or entertainment fabrication environments is highly preferred. Forklift, scissor lift, or aerial lift experience is a plus. Reliable transportation to and from the fabrication facility and onsite event locations. Physical Requirements Ability to regularly lift, carry, push, and move 50+ pounds. Ability to work in an active production environment requiring standing, sitting, bending, climbing, crouching, kneeling, reaching, and repetitive movement, often for extended periods. Ability to safely operate and work around fabrication equipment, machinery, paints, adhesives, solvents, and construction materials. Comfortable working indoors, outdoors, on loading docks, and at event venues during installations and strikes. Ability to work evenings, weekends, overtime, and extended shifts during peak production periods. Must be capable of working safely in a fast-paced fabrication and live event production environment. Why Work With MEI? Work on high-profile corporate events, award shows, concerts, conventions, and experiential activations. Join a team of skilled craftsmen and live event professionals. Flexible freelance opportunities with recurring project work throughout the year. Opportunity to participate in both shop fabrication and onsite installations. Fast-paced, creative, and collaborative work environment. Gain experience working on projects for nationally recognized brands, productions, and events.
Job Type:
Freelance /
As Needed Location:
Anaheim, CA Schedule:
Varies based on project needs. Day, evening, weekend, and overtime opportunities available. McNally Enterprises, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in the workplace.
Job Type:
Contract Pay:
$250.00 - $450.00 per day
Benefits:
Flexible schedule Application Question(s): Describe a complex set piece you built for a recent production, highlighting the unique challenges and solutions you employed.
Experience:
Carpentry:
3 years (Required)
Scenic Theater Construction:
2 years (Required)
Scenic Prop Making:
1 year (Preferred)
Location:
Buena Park, CA 90621 (Preferred) Shift availability: Day Shift (Required) Night Shift (Required) Overnight Shift (Required) Willingness to travel: 25% (Required)