How to Be Clown Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Apr 6, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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When clowns are hired for a performance, it is important to have a clown technician on hand. A clown technician is responsible for the maintenance of the clown props and costumes and making sure they are in proper working order. They are also responsible for setting up the stage and making sure that any sound or lighting requirements are met.

Having a clown technician present ensures that the performance will go off without a hitch. Without them, clowns may find themselves unable to perform due to equipment or costume malfunctions, resulting in a disappointing experience for both the clowns and the audience.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Many Clown Technician positions require candidates to have a high school diploma or equivalent. If you dont have one, you can earn it through an online program or by taking classes at a local community college.
Get experience working with clowns. Experience is essential for becoming a Clown Technician. If you dont have any, look for opportunities to volunteer at local events and shows. You can also look for internships or apprenticeships with established clowns.
Learn clowning skills. Although some of the skills necessary for being a Clown Technician may come naturally, its important to take classes or workshops that teach the basics of clowning, such as makeup application and costume design.
Become certified. Many employers prefer to hire Clown Technicians who are certified by a professional organization such as the International Brotherhood of Clowns. Certification requires passing an exam and attending seminars or classes.
Develop your business skills. In addition to having clowning experience, you should also possess good business skills. Take classes in marketing, accounting, and customer service to become a more well-rounded candidate.
Look for job openings. Once you have the necessary qualifications and experience, you can start searching for job openings near you. Many Clown Technician positions are posted online, so check job boards regularly to stay up-to-date on new opportunities.

Being a reliable and competent Clown Technician requires dedication, preparation and practice. Dedication is the first step in becoming a reliable and competent Clown Technician, as it requires the individual to commit to the task at hand and put in the necessary effort to ensure that the job is done properly. Preparation and practice are also key components of becoming a reliable and competent Clown Technician.

Preparation involves researching the clowning profession, learning about the different types of clowns, and understanding the audience and their needs. Practice involves practicing clowning skills such as putting on makeup and performing tricks. By combining dedication, preparation and practice, a Clown Technician can become reliable and competent in their job.

You may want to check Festival Clown, Magician/Clown, and Summer Camp Clown for alternative.

Job Description

Set up and maintain all clowning equipment, props, and accessories.
Troubleshoot clowning-related technical issues.
Train clowns in the use of all clowning equipment, props, and accessories.
Repair and maintain clowning equipment, props, and accessories as needed.
Build custom props and accessories as needed.
Perform safety checks on clowning equipment, props, and accessories.
Develop and implement procedures for the safe use of clowning equipment, props, and accessories.
Create and oversee maintenance and repair schedules for clowning equipment, props, and accessories.
Keep records of all clowning equipment, props, and accessories.
Research new clowning equipment, props, and accessories for potential use by clowns.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Extensive knowledge of clowning techniques and props
Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills
Proven ability to work effectively with children and adults
Creative problem solving
Ability to improvise
Ability to think on one's feet
Attention to detail
Ability to follow instructions
Understanding of safety regulations
Physical stamina
Basic make-up application
Ability to work independently or in a team environment
Knowledge of health and safety regulations

Clown technicians are an important part of any circus or performance. They are responsible for the safety and setup of the clowns and their props, as well as overseeing all clown performances. Having good technical skills is essential for a clown technician, as they need to be able to set up the equipment correctly and effectively.

Understanding the different types of props, how to assemble them properly, and how to safely operate them is key. a clown technician must have excellent organizational skills so that they can help keep track of the many pieces of equipment used in a show. Properly setting up the equipment can be a time-consuming task, but ensuring that it is done correctly is essential for the safety of everyone involved.

Furthermore, clown technicians must have a good understanding of the needs of clowns and be able to provide any assistance they may need. This could range from providing helpful advice on how to improve performances to helping out with costume changes. Having good communication and interpersonal skills is also important for a clown technician, as they will need to be able to work closely with other members of the circus or performance.

In order to be successful as a clown technician, one must possess a combination of technical knowledge, organizational skills, and interpersonal skills.

Goodwill Ambassador/Clown, Restoration Clown, and Comedy Clown are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have as a Clown Technician?
How comfortable are you interacting with people of all ages?
What do you think makes a successful clown show?
How would you handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with the performance?
What safety measures do you take while performing?
Describe the most challenging clowning job you have ever had.
How do you deal with stress and long hours during a performance?
What is your experience with stage setup and tear down?
Have you ever encountered a problem with props or equipment during a performance? If so, how did you handle it?
Describe your experience working with other clowns and members of a clown team.

Common Tools in Industry

Hammer. Used to drive nails into surfaces (eg: for building structures).
Power Drill. Tool used to make holes and drive screws into surfaces (eg: for installing shelves).
Wrench. Used to tighten and loosen bolts, nuts and other fasteners (eg: for assembling props).
Saw. Used to make precise cuts (eg: for cutting lumber).
Screwdriver. Used to drive and remove screws (eg: for repairing costumes).
Pliers. Used for gripping, twisting and cutting wire (eg: for tying balloons).
Stapler. Used to attach two pieces of paper or fabric together (eg: for making banners).
Glue Gun. Used to attach various materials together (eg: for securing props).
Tape Measure. Used to measure distances (eg: for setting up stages).
Paintbrush. Used to apply paint or stain to surfaces (eg: for painting scenery).

Professional Organizations to Know

International Association of Clowns (IAC)
Clowns of America International (COAI)
World Clown Association (WCA)
British Association of Clowns (BAC)
International Circus Clown Society (ICCS)
American Circus Educators Association (ACEA)
International Jugglers Association (IJA)
Clowns Without Borders (CWB USA)
European Clown Association (ECA)
World Street Theatre Network (WSTN)

We also have Clown Mentor, Circus Clown Teacher, and Unicycle Performer/Clown jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Clown Makeup. Makeup used to create a clowns look, usually bright and exaggerated.
Clown Props. Items used to enhance a clowns performance, such as juggling pins, balloons or puppets.
Clown Costume. Outfit worn by a clown, typically a colorful jumpsuit with a frilly collar and hat.
Clown Performance. A comedic show put on by a clown, often including physical comedy, juggling, and audience interaction.
Clown Jokes. Short comedic bits told by a clown to make the audience laugh.
Balloon Animal Sculpting. Process of twisting and shaping balloons into the shapes of animals or other forms.
Juggling. Tossing and catching multiple objects in the air simultaneously.
Magic Tricks. Illusionary stunts performed to entertain an audience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Clown Technician?

A Clown Technician is a professional who specializes in the design and installation of clown-related props, costumes, and equipment.

What qualifications do Clown Technicians need?

Clown Technicians need to be highly knowledgeable about clown-related products and services, and must possess a good understanding of costuming, set design, and technical theater.

What are some of the duties of a Clown Technician?

Some of the duties of a Clown Technician include advising on clown-related products, designing costumes and sets, constructing props, and installing equipment.