Roadie

You could:

• lift and carry equipment and sets
•  drive, load and unload vans, trailers and tour buses
•  act as security for equipment and band members
•  set up and look after sound equipment
•  install video equipment and screens
•  rig up wiring and lighting
•  set up firework and laser displays
•  tune instruments before and during the show

• physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• to be flexible and open to change
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• observation and recording skills
• concentration skills
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• excellent verbal communication skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

It would be helpful to have a driving licence. You may have an advantage if you have a Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) licence or Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) licence, which would allow you to drive tour buses and lorries. Fork lift truck training and experience could also be useful.

You could be travelling abroad so it would be useful if you could speak a second language, though it's not essential.

You can get into this job through:

• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• volunteering
• applying directly
• specialist courses run by private training providers

Most roadies work freelance. You may be able to move from working with unknown bands in the UK to high profile, large scale, multi national tours.

With experience, you could become a road or tour manager, or move into band management or music promotion.

You could transfer your technical skills to work behind the scenes in theatre, film or television or event health and safety advice work.