Job Description Company Overview My client is a world-class leader in creating physical special effects, with over 35 years of experience in the entertainment industry. We specialize in delivering exceptional effects for film, television, commercials, live events, and exhibitions. Our broad service offerings include pyrotechnics, atmospherics, animatronics, models and miniatures, props, prosthetics, and special costumes. With a talented team of designers and technicians, we bring the creative visions of our clients to life with precision and flair, on both national and international stages. Job Title: Senior Technician Salary Range: £40,000 - £50,000 Location: On-Site (Based in London Workshop) Main Duties & Responsibilities As a Senior Technician, you will play a key role in overseeing and coordinating the technical aspects of physical special effects, including models, props, pyrotechnics, and more. Your expertise will be crucial in ensuring the safe, efficient, and creative execution of effects for film, television, and live events. You will also be responsible for managing a team of technicians and liaising with other departments to deliver high-quality results. Key Responsibilities: Break down scripts to determine the models and effects required, including pyrotechnics, and discuss the technical requirements with the Producer/Director, Production Designer, and Senior Designer (when pyrotechnics are involved). Provide expert advice on the use of post-production and CGI solutions, suggesting where appropriate. Prepare detailed estimates and ensure all work is carried out within the agreed budget. Participate in Pre-production meetings, addressing safety concerns and requirements related to effects and pyrotechnics. Assist the Production Manager in allocating and managing a skilled team of technicians. Oversee the preparation, construction, and execution of models and special effects, ensuring that all tasks are completed to the highest standard. Ensure safety protocols are followed both on set and off set, collaborating with relevant departments such as Fire, Production, Art, and Construction, and liaising with the company’s insurers when necessary. Work closely with other department heads (e.g., Props, Costumes) to ensure all requirements are met. Ensure that a qualified deputy is present in your absence to maintain continuity on set. Offer guidance on camera angles, lenses, and post-production considerations to ensure safety during effects shots and collaboration with the Director, Director of Photography, and Stunt Coordinator. Ensure full compliance with Health & Safety Executive (HSE) regulations and COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) standards. Support the training and development of junior technicians and team members. Maintain accurate work records and time sheets. Oversee and sign off on the work of the technicians under your supervision. For roles involving pyrotechnics: Manage the packaging, transportation, and storage of pyrotechnics and explosives, ensuring compliance with all safety regulations. Be familiar with various pyrotechnic squibs and commercially available pyrotechnics. Ensure all safety requirements for pyrotechnic and fire effects are strictly followed, particularly when overseeing the team in the absence of a Senior Designer or Fire Officer. Take responsibility for pyrotechnic and fire effects on set when required. Person Specification Essential: Full, current UK driving licence. Proven experience working as a senior technician in the special effects industry. Strong knowledge of materials and equipment used in special effects, including pyrotechnics and fire effects. Some knowledge of post-production solutions and their application in effects. Deep understanding of safety requirements both on and off set. Familiarity with camera angles, lenses, and post-production techniques. Strong knowledge of SFX techniques, including practical effects and pyrotechnics. Ability to work collaboratively and communicate effectively within a team. Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities. High attention to detail and creativity in effect execution. Desirable: Design-related qualification. Advanced working knowledge of materials and equipment used specifically in pyrotechnic and fire effects. Why us? Innovative Projects: Work on high-profile projects for major films, TV shows, and live events. Creative Excellence: Join a team of passionate and skilled professionals in the special effects industry. Professional Growth: Enhance your expertise in both traditional and cutting-edge special effects technologies. Exciting Work Environment: Collaborate with talented individuals in a dynamic and fast-paced environment. If you are an experienced Senior Technician looking to take your career to the next level and contribute to the magic of special effects, this provides an excellent opportunity to grow within a creative and supportive environment.