No edit summary
 
(166 intermediate revisions by 9 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
==Overview==
==Overview==
Crewing can be an amazing experience - but it's not for everyone - and in particular we have to make sure we have the right people who can work together and gel as a team. We're always keen to talk to anyone who is interested in crewing so that they can find out if it's something they want to do and we can see if there is a place for them on the team. If you are interested in crewing the events then you are always welcome to talk to us about any of the different options, but it's always possible that we will already have enough people helping out with the thing you are interested in.
Crewing can be an amazing experience - but it's not for everyone - and in particular, we have to make sure we have the right people who can work together and gel as a team. We're always keen to talk to anyone who is interested in crewing so that they can find out if it's something they want to do and we can see if there is a place for them on the team. So if you're interested in one of the roles below, do get in touch with our game director [mailto:crew@profounddecisions.co.uk Clare Evans] - we'll give you a quick interview and see if we can offer you a place on the team.


All our crewing roles are for volunteers - but you won't pay for your tickets, we'll feed you throughout the event, and there is a big crew party on the last day for everyone who is helping take the event down. Ultimately the real benefit of crewing is that you'll be part of an amazing team of people and can take pride in your role in creating the Empire events that players love. You'll be part of the biggest LRP event crew in the country (there are over 300 of us!), working with incredibly talented people, and hopefully have an amazing time.
'''All our crewing roles are for volunteers - but you won't need a ticket, we'll feed you throughout the event, and there is a big crew party on the last day for everyone who is helping take the event down'''. Ultimately the real benefit of crewing is that you'll be part of an amazing team of people and can take pride in your role in creating the Empire events that players love. You'll be part of the biggest LRP event crew in the country (there are over 400 of us!), working with incredibly talented people, and hopefully having an amazing time.


The crew roles described below are specific areas that we are actively looking to fill at this time, so if they sound interesting then it's definitely worth [mailto:crew@profounddecisions.co.uk contacting us] to discuss it.
The crew roles described below are specific areas that we are actively looking to fill at this time, so if they sound interesting then it's definitely worth [mailto:crew@profounddecisions.co.uk contacting us] to discuss it. If you're interested in helping with something that isn't listed below then it may still be worth getting in touch, but bear in mind that we may already have enough people helping out in that area.


==Referees - Customer Service Roles (2-6 places)==
==NPC==
Our referees are one of the most visible roles we have, helping players engage with and enjoy the game, throughout time in. They offer friendly advice, carry out functional tasks recording in game actions using our tablets, and step in to ask questions when it seems that someone might not be playing by the rules. These are full-time volunteer roles and you will not be able to play a character taking part in the game alongside reffing. It is often possible to sit and relax with players late in the evening though, either as an R&R character or as a silent presence in the back of a tent observing the role play.  
The NPCs are there to bring the Empire setting to life and try to make each event as dramatic and engaging as possible. To do that - we need good NPCs that are capable of playing a multitude of different parts throughout a weekend. This isn’t ‘easier’ than playing - it's much harder! We need you to have a solid grasp of ''all'' the nations of the Empire, and you’ll be working with detailed briefs that may involve magic, finance, diplomacy and foreign nations. It really helps to be an experienced roleplayer and is vital that you're familiar with the setting.


Many of our refs specialise either as a Field Ref - who build up an in depth knowledge of the most commonly cast rituals, or commonly used items, particularly those that interact with plots in order to answer queries quickly and efficiently - or as a Skirmish Ref - who are experts in watching combat and being able to see whether players are abiding by the rules; make judgements about how hard they are hitting; decide whether they are fighting in a safe location, and know to de-escalate conflict between players (rather than characters) if it arises. You may either request to join the team as one or the other type of Ref, or join as non-specialised and try out both. You will be given the opportunity to spend a good deal of your first event shadowing other referees to get used to reffing Profound Decisions style.
You only need to be on site shortly before the event starts, and while we ask that you help with the takedown of the monster tent before leaving, this usually only takes an hour or so after time out, so being an NPC is a great role for anyone who wants to be right in the heart of the game but cannot get to the event early or stay late.


===Benefits===
All our plot crew are very busy throughout every event. This means that it is impossible to play an event and be a member of the plot crew. You will get a chance to take a few hours off each event to get out and socialize in-character if you want to, but you can't be an NPC and play the game. We also operate a permanent crew system, so while you're welcome to resume playing in the future if you want to, but you can't switch back and forth being playing and NPCing from one event to the next.
* '''Your ticket to the event you crew in this way at is free'''
{{CaptionedImage|file=Plotredhat.jpg|caption=Plot Tent Set-up|align=right|width=300}}
* '''You receive meal tickets that cover all meals whilst you are on site'''
===How much of the event will you see?===
* '''You are invited to the crew party on Sunday evening'''
'''As an NPC, plenty of it, but as a player, you might only get a couple of hours over the whole weekend, if there’s time. We do try and allow for people to go and socialise, but your main focus should be on your NPC roles.'''
 
===Requirements===
* '''Be available from Friday afternoon – pre-event briefing is at 4pm'''
* '''Be available for an hour after time out for take down and packing'''
* '''Have a solid knowledge of the Imperial Nations, and preferably the magic and economy systems'''
* '''Be up for cycling through a variety of roles over the weekend, on your own and as part of groups'''
 
==Referees==
We are recruiting for our referee team. The Empire referees are one of the most visible and essential parts of the game, covering everything from battle field safety to bonding items, via rituals, poisonings and all sorts of shenanigans on the way.
 
Very roughly there are two types of referee role, you can both both, mostly one and dabble in the other or just one! The Field covers Anvil and Skirmish covers battles, skirmishes, encounters and most combat.
 
All referees are armed with a PD supplied tablet to look up rules for clarification and log player actions. You will also have a radio and ear-piece so you can communicate with the rest of the team. Back up and support is always on hand.
 
No one is ever thrown in without training and support, for your first event you will be teamed up with another member of the team who help you learn and make sure your confident and secure in the role.
 
On the Field you will be responding to player needs. This could be based in the Regio or the Ref Access Tent in the Dawn/Wintermark field or roving free range around Anvil as needed. The referees on the field are answering player queries, processing bindings, rituals and things that need data base queries. The tablet walks you through the process, you just need to enter the correct numbers! You get an opportunity to see all sides of the players games and know all the exciting and sneaky things going on!
 
On Skirmish you will become an expert in managing combat safety and applying the combat rules. This is a physical job, you will need to travel between God, Monster, the skirmish woods and field on a regular basis covering all the terrain in between and keeping up with player movements.
 
===How much of the event will you see?===
* '''• You will be unlikely to play a character but opportunities to take on small roles in other departments can be arranged, e.g. plot writing, monstering, field NPCing with the Civil Service.'''
 
===Requirements===
* '''You will be one of the main faces of the game and a lot of the work is customer service based. Being polite, approachable and knowing when to escalate is essential.'''
* '''We would love you to have either experience as an Empire player OR experience of reffing other systems.'''
* '''We would need you to learn the core Empire rules around commonly used items and actions before your first event'''
* '''Be comfortable wearing a radio and earpiece at all times and using a tablet to record entries in a database'''
* '''Being a referee can involve walking long distances as you cover the space of Anvil and will often be moving between player camps and God. There are places for referees with more static roles in the team with the Regio, Ref Access Tent and God bases.'''
* '''Be on-site on Friday at 3 pm until the end of the event at 3 pm on Sunday afternoon'''
 
 
==Skirmish Team==
We need more people to join our [[Plot_crew#Skirmish|skirmish team - The Hundred]] - to bolster our numbers and help in delivering combat encounters at events. The Skirmish Team runs in two main groups to deliver large military engagements and smaller plot-heavy encounters for players. As the game has grown the need for more orcs, heralds, undead, and unusual monsters has increased. To continue improving on our current encounters we need a larger team to muster for skirmishes and deliver combat encounters so more players can participate and have fun fighting for the Empire!
 
The majority of the time we play barbarian orcs from the tribes that surround the Empire, but also portray magical heralds, fearsome creatures, shambling undead, the monstrous Vallorn, and unassuming human citizens with nothing to hide... It can be an exhausting experience but as a team we look after each other and make sure we don’t push ourselves too far. We stop work each evening by 10 pm, then run through a briefing for the battle the next day. After this is done there is time to rest and relax with the rest of the team, head in character to enjoy Anvil, or take on a volunteer role in late-night low-combat encounters. With a larger team, we will be able to support larger military encounters and additional slots for our Plot Team to deliver a whole host of plots in the skirmish areas, encounter tents and in Anvil itself.
 
Ideally, we are looking for people who already have experience playing or crewing LRP, both at large fests and smaller events. Experience of Empire LRP is not essential but will help make it easier to understand the encounters you are part of, and what we are trying to achieve. Being a competent fighter is useful, as is being able to lead others, but these are not essential; being able to roleplay is however an essential thing we need!
 
The extra cool bits: "You get to play the varied threats faced by the players; access to the Empire arsenal of weapons and armour for monstering with; support from the rest of the team on creating cool orc costumes and kit; training in how to safely fight and engage the players of the game in combat!"
 
===How much of the event will you see?===
* '''You will be involved in encounters during most of your event, but will have plenty of breaks for rest and food. There is a chance to play your own character after battle brief is done each evening.
 
===Requirements===
* '''This role involves considerable physical exertion, involvement in LRP combat, and frequent running'''
* '''This role includes frequent changes of kit, armour, and makeup'''
* '''This role requires wearing latex masks for extended periods of time'''
* '''You need to understand and follow the Empire LRP rules, especially those relating to combat and conduct'''
* '''You will work with team leaders our Battle Team, Referee Team and Plot Writers to deliver exceptional encounters'''
* '''You will assist with set-up and take-down of team kit and the battlefield areas before and after the event'''
* '''Where possible you should commit to crewing for an extended period of time (four events); it is not possible to alternate between playing and crewing as part of the Skirmish Team'''
 
 
==Synod Civil Service (Tribune)==
The Civil Servants who support the Synod game are called the Tribune of the Synod, and it's their job to answer questions, accept new Judgements, advise players, and take their votes. We pride ourselves on having in-character Civil Servants who are a living, breathing part of the game world, and having a strong sense of camaraderie.
 
Primarily, you'd be helping player characters achieve their goals and ambitions by taking away the complicated bits of bureaucracy, enabling drama, intrigue and other gameplay. Frequently, this involves helping outside of the Synod as well - advising players on where to go, what options they have available, or who they might want to talk to.
 
Out of character experience with admin isn't necessary, but you'd need to be comfortable with helping out with the paperwork for much of the event, checking to make sure players have filled out Judgements correctly and recording their votes accurately. You'll be working alongside other experienced Civil Servants who will happily share their expertise and guide you through this.
 
You only need to be on site shortly before the event starts, but after that you'll be quite busy - Synod opens at time-in and apart from some small breaks, it closes at 10pm.
 
===How much of the event will you see?===
'''You'll be in your Field NPC role for most, if not all of the event, directly interacting with player characters as an immersive, in-character functionary. Although that'll be your main focus, you'll also get breaks to rest and relax, and freedom to head off and roleplay once Synod closes for the evening - though you won't be playing the game like a player would.'''
 
===Requirements===
*'''Excellent customer service skills'''
*'''Be available from 6pm Friday to 10pm in the evening'''
*'''Be available from 10am Saturday to 10pm in the evening'''
*'''Be available from 10am Sunday to 3pm  in the afternoon'''
*'''Ideally have a good knowledge of the game world, such as the Imperial Nations (but you'll learn Synod-specific processes on the job)'''
 
==Security==
Live roleplaying events are generally relaxed and friendly environments so we work with a small SIA registered security team. We supplement that team with volunteer marshals who work alongside security and help them keep a watchful eye on the site each night.  We have spaces for both SIA registered security and volunteer marshals at present, in order to cover all our night shifts well and make it possible for each team member to have one night off.
 
The team covers Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 01:00 to 08.30 in the morning. Depending on your need for sleep, you can get quite a lot of play as a character in the game fitted in around your shifts, though you do need to make sure you save enough energy to do the job well. The team work closely with first aid, and with the conduct team and participant welfare, in order to make sure everyone stays safe whilst enjoying the event. In bad weather conditions, they are also responsible for securing tent structures that are at risk and dealing with other issues as they arrive.
 
===How much of the event will you see?===
* '''Whilst getting enough sleep to cover your shifts is a priority, you may spend time between shifts playing a character and enjoying the event"
 
===Requirements===
* '''Be able to work 1 am - 8.30 am shifts on security, either 2 (when we have enough cover) or 3 nights per event (Thurs, Fri, Sat)'''
* '''Be able to walk around the site as part of that shift'''
* '''Be sober for your shift in order to be a fully responsible team member'''
* '''Be able to do physical tasks such as assisting carrying a person'''
 
 
==Costume==
The Costume team works closely with the NPC team to ensure they are maintaining the consistency of kit briefs entering the player field. During events the costume team manage the setup and take down of wardrobe, keep the kit rails tidy, accessible & organised. They are also in charge of creating, acquiring and repairing kit, typically during the downtime between events. This would be an ideal role for someone who makes costume for Empire already and has experience playing the game.
 
===How much of the event will you see?===
*'''Plot Production crew are very busy throughout every event. This means that it is impossible to play an event and be a member of the plot crew. You will still get a chance to take some time off and socialise with friends, most likely towards the end of each day once the last remaining plots are run out.'''
 
===Requirements===
*'''Be available from Thursday afternoon to help setup the costume department'''
*'''Be available for an hour after time out for take down and packing'''
*'''Have a good understanding of the costume briefs for each nation'''
*'''We would prefer that you have experience of the Empire Game World'''
 
==Props==
The Props department is responsible for organising and maintaining PD's props and assisting with prop requests from the running plots of each event. Our props are sorted into numbered & labelled storage crates which many of the plot & plot production crew members will access throughout each event. Once the plot is finished the props team will return everything back into its boxy home.
 
Between events & occasionally during events specific prop requests will come in, and whilst it’s not the sole responsibility of the props department to facilitate these requests the role would suit someone with crafting skills.
There are also ongoing efforts to create a searchable photo database, with photos being taken at each event during any downtime.
 
===How much of the event will you see?===
*'''Plot Production crew are very busy throughout every event. This means that it is impossible to play an event and be a member of the plot crew. You will still get a chance to take some time off and socialise with friends, most likely towards the end of each day once the last remaining plots are run out.'''
 
===Requirements===
*'''Be available from Thursday afternoon to help setup the props department'''
*'''Be available for an hour after time out for take down and packing'''
*'''Comfortable with lifting & shifting some relatively heavy storage crates'''
*'''Have a good understanding of the visual briefs of each nation'''
 
{{Crewing Links}}
<!--
DONT DELETE THESE BLOCKS - JUST MOVE THEM IN OR OUT OF THE COMMENT AREA - MP.
 
==Traffic Team==
The traffic team are responsible for directing traffic round site, showing them where to go, how to get there, and helping people find a suitable spot to pitch and camp as well as looking to ensure that people are driving responsibly. You'll work closely with the gate team who are the first members of crew to meet people when they arrive on site, but you'll also need to be available to help for a few hours Saturday or Sunday morning as we have increasing numbers of players arriving by car then.
 
The work is long hours on your feet, and involves a lot of walking, but provided you're comfortable with that then you'll be fine. There are plenty of opportunities to socialise and chat with players when they are arriving - we want our traffic team to be friendly and approachable.
 
You'll need to help for a few hours on Friday after the game has started at some events, but once everything is well underway then you'll be free to play for most of the event. You will be busy again at time-out - as we need lots of traffic team to handle the vehicles moving around site then.
 
===How much of the event will you see?===
*  '''You should be able to play for most of the event, but you will miss a few hours on Friday evening and we will need you for a shift on either Saturday or Sunday morning'''
 
===Requirements===
* '''Be on-site on Thursday morning and until Sunday evening'''
* '''Be prepared to walk long distances in all weathers'''
* '''Be prepared to time in a little late on Friday and finish playing a little early on Sunday when necessary to get the job done'''
* '''Be polite when directing players around site'''
 
==Makeup==
We're looking for more people to join our make-up team in the plot production department. The team are based in the monster tent and are essential for any roles that require make-up or prosthetics. These include orcs and characters with lineage, but they also include eternals and their heralds. The team plan complex make-up arrangements in advance of the event so that convincing effects can be created quickly in the field. They also help player volunteers don and remove make-up before and after the battles.
 
The make-up team work before the events helping to plan and arrange new make-up and prosthetic purchase in preparation for upcoming plots, but most of the work takes place during time-in of the event.
 
We need volunteers from an hour before time in on Friday up until an hour after Time out on Sunday. You'll be liaising with the rest of the make-up team to ensure we have appropriate cover during the event. While you may have some time on the field in character this role is not suitable for someone wishing to play the event.
 
===How much of the event will you see?===
* '''You will be unlikely to play a character other than the occasional NPC, but may enjoy the event facilities around the responsibilities of your volunteering role'''


===Requirements===
===Requirements===
* '''Have either at least 4 events experience as an Empire player OR significant experience of reffing other systems and be prepared to learn the core Empire rules thoroughly before your first event'''
* '''Crew throughout the event rather than playing'''
* '''Take instructions well, but be prepared to take your own initiative from one task to the next'''
* '''Bring enthusiasm and energy to producing good quality make-up and prosthetics to a tight time schedule'''
* '''Be comfortable using a tablet to record entries in a database'''
* '''Be ready to fit into an existing team and learn from their experiences'''
* '''Be comfortable wearing a radio and earpiece at all times'''
* '''Be comfortable walking long distances over the course of the event to reach the players who need a referee in all different areas of the field''' (If you would love to ref, but can't meet the walking requirement do let us know. We should be able to make 1 place available refereeing from a mostly static location at the Imperial Regio) 
* '''Be able (usually) to be on site on Friday at 4pm until the end of the event on Sunday afternoon (or later if you wish)'''


==Plot Tent Set-Up (2 more places)==
Crucially, you need to be confident that you will get more fun out of this backstage experience than your roleplaying experience is currently giving you. You will be joining the plot production department as a full-time member of the team so balancing both will '''not''' be possible.
We recruited 2 people into these roles at E1, and they did brilliantly, so we'd like to expand and have two more places available.


If you have played 2 or more Empire events, and have free time on Thursdays, Fridays and late into Sunday this role might be for you. We are looking up to three people to join our crew as - members of our [[site crew]] - but working directly with our plot production team to help set up and take down the main plot tent. The role allows you to '''mostly''' play your character during game time - with some restrictions and the [https://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/crew-wiki/Time_off standard limitations for members of the site team] - in return for work before and after the game and a few hours during the game.
==Gate Crew==
The gate crew are responsible for welcoming players to the site, checking bookings, and taking payments for the gate bookings as well as the early arrivals on Thursday. You're the first member of PD that most players will encounter when they get to site, often after a long drive, so it's important to be cheerful and friendly.  


We need help from midday Thursday until time-in Friday setting up the monster tent, fetching and carrying shelves, boxes, bags of costume, unpacking costume onto nation rails, carrying cables for theatrical lighting specialists. We then need help in the 2 hours immediately after the battle on Saturday clearing the battle prep tent and setting it ready for the next day. Finally your game will finish half an hour after the Sunday battle and you must be free until at least 7pm to help with the clear up of the battle tent and monster room, filling of boxes, loading of boxes and bags into storage etc.
Being part of the gate crew means crewing from around noon on Thursday to Late Friday. Once your shift on Friday is complete you are then free to play the rest of the event.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Plotredhat.jpg|caption=Plot Tent Set-up|align=right|width=300}}


===Benefits===
===How much of the event will you see?===
* '''Your ticket to the event you crew in this way at is free'''
* '''As gate crew you will be working for almost all of Thursday and Friday through to the evening. This will leave most the rest of the weekend to play a character.'''
* '''You receive meal tickets that cover all meals whilst you are on site'''
* '''You are invited to the crew party on Sunday evening'''


===Requirements===
===Requirements===
* '''Cope well with heavy lifting, both before and after the event itself'''
* '''Be on site by Thursday lunchtime'''
* '''Take instructions well, but be prepared to take your own initiative from one task to the next'''
* '''Be personable and enjoy welcoming players to the site'''
* '''Be on site on Thursday morning until 7pm Sunday evening (or longer if you prefer!)'''
* '''Be confident handling money and have strong numeracy skills'''
* '''Walk away from immediate post battlefield role play in order to carry out your crew role'''
* '''Be prepared to work in all weathers'''
* '''Be prepared to time in late on Friday.'''


Driving is not essential, but if we have lots of applications for the places, people who drive or who travel with other crew members will have priority over those who would need station collection or who are travelling with players who may need to leave earlier or arrive later


==Encounter Tent & Plot SFX (1 space only)==
==Encounter Tents==
Our encounter tent specialists and plot sfx team are technical and design wizards who work magic with sets and light and sound to help us run off Anvil adventures that take place in tents. If you’ve got skills rusting away because you studied theatre design but never worked in it, or you help build am dram sets, or you love realising or improving other people’s visions this role might be for you.
Our encounter tent specialists are technical and design wizards who work magic with sets to help us prepare and run the encounters that take place off Anvil in tents. If you’ve got skills rusting away because you studied theatre design but never worked in it, or you help build am-dram sets, or you love realising or improving other people’s visions this role might be for you.


You’d work in support of our existing teams in this area at your first event, and see if there is a place for you to fit for the future. We currently have 3 "heads of tents" and 2 "regio and other plot sfx leads" so if you join at this time you should expect to be mostly working in a supporting role rather than leading an area of plot production, perhaps stepping into a lead role at events where someone else is away.
We're looking for two more people to join our encounter tent team in plot production. Our team are responsible for designing sets and building and running scenes in the encounter tents. They work closely with the plot team and there is a lot of crossover with the other teams in plot production. We need volunteers from an hour before time in on Friday up until an hour after time out on Sunday.  


This really is a role for someone who is looking to expand their volunteering in LRP because they love the hobby. You will be able to arrange for a few hours to relax and roleplay if you want to (or take on a short NPC role or two), but you will be a member of the [[plot crew]] which means you'll be busy working throughout most of the event so you won’t be able to play a political character, and engage with the wider plot of the game.
This really is a role for someone who is looking to expand their volunteering in LRP because they love the hobby. You will be able to arrange for a few hours to relax if you want to (or take on a short NPC role or two), but you will be a member of the [[plot crew]] which means you'll be busy working throughout most of the event so you won’t be able to play a political character, and engage with the wider plot of the game.


===Benefits===
Being part of the plot production team for the encounter tents means that you'll have a chance to experience a part of LRP design that doesn’t happen in many places - the short immersive experience encounter set up, with props, costume and set dressing to support it. It's challenging work but you'll get to create some amazing experiences for players and see the reactions they create.
* '''As a member of crew your ticket is free - although you won’t be able to play a character in the game in the usual way'''
* '''You receive meal tickets that cover all meals whilst you are on site'''
* '''You are invited to the crew party on Sunday evening'''


Being part of the plot production team for the encounter tents, or the Regio and Hall of Worlds means that you'll have a chance to experience a part of LRP design that doesn’t happen in many places - the short immersive experience encounter set up, with a props, costume and set store to support it. It's challenging work but you'll get to create some amazing experiences for players and see the reactions that creates.
===How much of the event will you see?===
* '''You will be unlikely to play a character other than the occasional NPC, but may enjoy the event facilities around the responsibilities of your volunteering role'''


===Requirements===
===Requirements===
* '''Crew throughout the event rather than playing'''
* '''Crew throughout the event rather than playing'''
* '''Bring enthusiasm and energy to creative encounter tent set design in a fairly high stress environment'''
* '''Cope with some lifting and shifting of objects throughout the weekend'''
* '''Know the game world well - we recommend having played for about a year or more'''
* '''Bring enthusiasm and energy to creative encounter tent set design in a fairly high-stress environment'''
* '''Be ready to fit in to an existing team and learn from their experiences'''
* '''Be ready to fit in to an existing team and learn from their experiences'''
* '''Cope with some lifting and shifting of objects throughout the weekend (assistance is available)'''
* '''Be willing to consider some skype planning calls between events, if you enjoy the experience and become a long term member of the team'''
* '''Be willing to consider some skype planning calls between events, if you enjoy the experience and become a longer term member of the team'''
 
Crucially, you need to be confident that you will get more fun out of this backstage experience than your roleplaying experience is currently giving you. You will be joining the plot production department as a full-time member of the team so balancing both will '''not''' be possible.
 
==Hygiene Team==
Even if you've never met one of us, you have certainly benefited from the hard work of the hygiene team, aka the brown caps.
 
As the game has grown so has the number of toilet facilities provided for the field and so we are looking for a few new people. Despite what you may think, this position does not require a cast-iron stomach and no sense of smell beyond what you'd need to just use the toilets. All that we require are people to work as part of existing teams, to check the toilets around 6 times a day to make sure they are stocked on consumables and the bins are changed, with one clean out each day.
 
If you are willing to take a plunger in hand to fix a clog that's a bonus, but certainly not required. This is a great role for someone who wants to provide a vital service but does not have the free time for early arrival or physicality required for standard red cap duties.
 
And don't believe the line, we are anything but "Unsung heroes".
 
===How much of the event will you see?===
* '''Although as site crew you are on-call for a lot of the event in case of emergency, you can also play a character and take a full part in the game around your shifts before and after the game'''
 
===Requirements===
* '''Working as a team to make sure enough restocking is done.'''
* '''Either an earlier start or a later finish for first and last thing restock'''
* '''Flexibility and being able to work suitable timings with your teammates for the above two points'''.
* '''Good timekeeping, missing a restock can have knock-on effects that cause problems for everyone''
* '''Diligence, rushed cleaning means more work for other people after the event'''
* '''Being able to walk a long distance with a light load, your assigned block might require some walking to reach.'''
 
If we get lots of enquiries we will give preference to people who are planning to attend all 3 remaining events this year as that helps us build a solid team.
 
==Crew Welfare ==
The crew welfare team are responsible for making sure the crew are fed and looked after. This includes preparing food; cleaning the crew hut; organising the food and drink in the hut and tent; greeting and taking in the Morrison's order; checking with other departments to see if they need any supplies getting; and leaving the site to restock supplies. They work closely with participant welfare to make sure they have what they need and try to ensure that people remember to eat, hydrate and put on sunscreen. Then at the end of the event they clean everything down and pack it all away ready for the next one.
 
The teamwork Thursday and Friday to set up the welfare areas so that they just need minor maintenance during the event. While the event is running there is the opportunity to play a character and join in with the game.
 
Being part of the team means being able to work hard sometimes. There can be a lot of medium to heavy lifting involved (if you can lift a 6 pack of 2-litre bottles you'll be fine). You'll also need endless levels of patience and some common sense as it can sometimes be like being a parent.
 
===How much of the event will you see?===
*'''You will be able to play a character and take part in the game around your shifts.'''
 
===Requirements===
* '''Enjoy preparing food and working with the other crew you are supporting'''
* '''Take instructions well, but be prepared to take your own initiative from one task to the next'''
* '''Be on-site on Thursday morning and again on Sunday afternoon (or longer if possible)'''
* '''Be comfortable wearing a radio and earpiece when required'''
* '''A standard driving license is desirable but not necessary'''
 
==Skirmish Team==
We need more people to join our [[Plot_crew#Skirmish|skirmish team - The Hundred]] - to bolster our numbers and help in delivering combat encounters at events. The Skirmish Team runs in two main groups to deliver large military engagements and smaller plot-heavy encounters for players. As the game has grown the need for more orcs, heralds, undead, and unusual monsters has increased. To continue improving on our current encounters we need a larger team to muster for skirmishes and deliver combat encounters so more players can participate and have fun fighting for the Empire!
 
The majority of the time we play barbarian orcs from the tribes that surround the Empire, but also portray magical heralds, fearsome creatures, shambling undead, the monstrous Vallorn, and unassuming human citizens with nothing to hide... It can be an exhausting experience but as a team we look after each other and make sure we don’t push ourselves too far. We stop work each evening by 10 pm, then run through a briefing for the battle the next day. After this is done there is time to rest and relax with the rest of the team, head in character to enjoy Anvil, or take on a volunteer role in late-night low-combat encounters. With a larger team, we will be able to support larger military encounters and additional slots for our Plot Team to deliver a whole host of plots in the skirmish areas, encounter tents and in Anvil itself.
 
Ideally, we are looking for people who already have experience playing or crewing LRP, both at large fests and smaller events. Experience of Empire LRP is not essential but will help make it easier to understand the encounters you are part of, and what we are trying to achieve. Being a competent fighter is useful, as is being able to lead others, but these are not essential; being able to roleplay is however an essential thing we need!


Crucially, you need to be confident that you will get more fun out of this backstage experience than your roleplaying experience is currently giving you. You will be joining the plot crew as a full time member of the team so balancing both will '''not''' be possible.
The extra cool bits: "You get to play the varied threats faced by the players; access to the Empire arsenal of weapons and armour for monstering with; support from the rest of the team on creating cool orc costumes and kit; training in how to safely fight and engage the players of the game in combat!"
{{CaptionedImage|file=morehats.jpg|caption=Expert help needed to manage our props and costume|align=left|width=400}}


==Props & Costume Management (varied)==
===How much of the event will you see?===
We need people to help manage props & costume, both keeping them tidy during events and managing what goes back to the storeroom and how it is sourced and looked after between events. Ideally we are looking for at least two people to join our [[Plot_crew#Costume_and_Props|plot production team as part of the plot crew]]. That is a full time crewing role so you would be busy throughout the event. You would be able to combine the role with some NPCing or other crew roles where you can sign up to certain time slots to be spent in the monster room tidying, sorting and organising between taking on other responsibilities, but you can't also play the event.
* '''You will be involved in encounters during most of your event, but will have plenty of breaks for rest and food. There is a chance to play your own character after battle brief is done each evening.


However we are also looking for help between events. if there were players who live close enough to Coventry who could commit to organising (not just attending) storeroom sorting days and activities between events, making sure props that need mending are sent for mending, laundry sorting happens etc, and can be available from about midday Sunday to liaise with the “during the weekend” teams, then that might be an approach we could support with complimentary event tickets.
===Requirements===
* '''This role involves considerable physical exertion, involvement in LRP combat, and frequent running'''
* '''This role includes frequent changes of kit, armour, and makeup'''
* '''This role requires wearing latex masks for extended periods of time'''
* '''You need to understand and follow the Empire LRP rules, especially those relating to combat and conduct'''
* '''You will work with team leaders our Battle Team, Referee Team and Plot Writers to deliver exceptional encounters'''
* '''You will assist with set-up and take-down of team kit and the battlefield areas before and after the event'''
* '''Where possible you should commit to crewing for an extended period of time (four events); it is not possible to alternate between playing and crewing as part of the Skirmish Team'''


Rather than “please apply for these specific places” for this area, we’d just like to hear from people about what interest they have and perhaps arrange to have a chat during the first event and then see where we go from there in order to make roles that work.
==Magistrates==
{{CaptionedImage|file=Monstering.jpg|caption=Join the Hundred and fight the Empire - would you like to know more? |align=right|width=500}}
* Imperial character that conducts trials
* Engage players in the legal process
* Try to keep conflict between players political
The magistrates are official Imperial characters who operate the legal system, conducting trials and overseeing the application of the law. Their role is to involve players in the legal process as thief-takers, detectives and militia etc. The point of the magistrates is to do everything in-character, to make murder as difficult to get away with as humanly possible. The goal is to redress the balance of games in which murder is trivial and the cheapest solution to any political problem. Empire is intended to provide a PvM game for players combined with a PvP political game. The magistrates exist to try to ensure that most conflict between players remains political. It is possible for a magistrate to play other roles some of the time if they wish.
Being a magistrate requires some charisma and personal presence. The magistrates have the full backing of the setting, but that will not serve if they cannot get the support of the majority of players. Magistrates need to be unbiased and although they are encouraged to play the role on an ongoing basis they should avoid becoming embroiled in the politics of the game; like all civil servants they are compelled to remain honest and impartial by the magical power of the oaths they have sworn. Being a magistrate is a great role for anyone with an intuition for skulduggery and a sense of drama for making court scenes dramatic.
<row-fluid>
<span12>
{{CaptionedImage|file=JonCreek.jpg|align=left|caption=Head Magistrate: Jon Creek}}
</span12>
</row-fluid>


==Skirmish Team (several spaces)==
We are looking for one or two other magistrates.
We need more people to join our [[Plot_crew#Skirmish|skirmish team - The Hundred]] - to bolster our numbers and help in delivering combat encounters during skirmishes and battles. The skirmish team run in two groups to deliver as many combat encounters for players as we can during the event. The more orcs we can muster for skirmishes, the more players can join skirmishes and have fun fighting for the Empire.


The majority of the time we play barbarian orcs from the tribes that surround the Empire, but also crew as human bandits, magical heralds and fearsome monsters. It can be an exhausting experience, but as a team we look after each other and make sure we don’t push ourselves too far. We stop work each evening at 10pm, then run through the brief for the battle the next day. After this is done there is time to rest and relax with the rest of the team or head in character to enjoy Anvil.
==GOD Team==
The Games Operation Desk (GOD) operates as the main contact point for players and crew throughout the event. We’re responsible for handling a wide variety of game administration, from handing out packs and recording rituals to recording lost property and helping new players create their first characters.


Ideally we are looking for people who already have experience of playing or crewing LRP, both large fests and smaller events. Experience of Empire LRP is not essential, but will help make it easier to understand the encounters you are part of and what we as crew are trying to achieve. Being a competent fighter is useful, as is being able to lead a small unit of fighters, but these are not essential; being able to roleplay is however an essential thing we need!
There are a variety of roles within the GOD team depending on your skills and interests. Some will be largely computer-based (our “front desk” crew), but not all. GOD crew handle large amounts of in-character resources and sometimes out-of-character cash, so it’s important that we’re known and seen to be trustworthy. Ideally, GOD crew will be around from Thursday to help with setting up GOD and handing out packs, but the key work is from Friday lunchtime to a few hours after time-out on Sunday.


===Benefits===
===How much of the event will you see?===
* '''As a member of crew your ticket is free - although you won’t be able to play a character in the game in the usual way'''
* '''GOD operates throughout the event, although we have a rota to ensure everyone gets breaks and the chance for those who want to take some R&R'''
* '''You receive meal tickets that cover all meals whilst you are on site'''
* '''You are invited to the crew party on Sunday evening'''
* '''You get to play the varied threats faced by the players!'''
* '''Access to the Empire arsenal of weapons and armour for monstering with'''
* '''Support from the rest of the team on creating cool orc tribe costumes and kit'''


===Requirements===
===Requirements===
* '''This role involves considerable physical exertion, LRP combat and frequent running'''
* '''Good customer service skills'''
* '''This role includes frequent changes of kit, armour and makeup'''
* '''Take instructions well, but be prepared to take your own initiative from one task to the next'''
* '''Able to wear a latex orc mask for extended periods'''
* '''If you have an R&R character, being confident you can keep the information you learn in GOD separate from your character’s knowledge'''
* '''Can understand and follow the Empire LRP rules, especially those relating to combat'''
 
* '''Work with our battle team, referees and writers to deliver exceptional combat encounters'''
While it’s unnecessary for all our GOD crew, being comfortable using a radio and a computer are significant bonuses.
* '''Help with set-up and take-down of the plot area if you are on site before or after the event'''


{{Crewing Links}}
==Coach Team==
We need one person to join the small coach team. The position involves helping and guiding players from Banbury train station to the coach, helping with luggage loading and unloading and being a passenger on the coach for the day. This will be an off-site role but is customer facing.
 
On the Sunday the role is managing the players and their luggage to leave site. This duty will have you staying on site until the last coach is gone late in the evening.
 
===How much of the event will you see===
* '''The duties are during the day on Thursday and Friday, and on Sunday afternoon. Outside of these times (listed below) you are free to do your own thing.'''
 
===Requirements===
* '''Reasonably fit to handle luggage'''
* '''Be available Thursday 12 noon to 8.30pm'''
* '''Be available Friday 10am to 5pm'''
* '''Be available Sunday 2.30pm to 7.30pm'''
* '''Able to Check on and around the train station for lost LRPers'''
 
 
-->

Latest revision as of 11:28, 1 October 2024

Overview

Crewing can be an amazing experience - but it's not for everyone - and in particular, we have to make sure we have the right people who can work together and gel as a team. We're always keen to talk to anyone who is interested in crewing so that they can find out if it's something they want to do and we can see if there is a place for them on the team. So if you're interested in one of the roles below, do get in touch with our game director Clare Evans - we'll give you a quick interview and see if we can offer you a place on the team.

All our crewing roles are for volunteers - but you won't need a ticket, we'll feed you throughout the event, and there is a big crew party on the last day for everyone who is helping take the event down. Ultimately the real benefit of crewing is that you'll be part of an amazing team of people and can take pride in your role in creating the Empire events that players love. You'll be part of the biggest LRP event crew in the country (there are over 400 of us!), working with incredibly talented people, and hopefully having an amazing time.

The crew roles described below are specific areas that we are actively looking to fill at this time, so if they sound interesting then it's definitely worth contacting us to discuss it. If you're interested in helping with something that isn't listed below then it may still be worth getting in touch, but bear in mind that we may already have enough people helping out in that area.

NPC

The NPCs are there to bring the Empire setting to life and try to make each event as dramatic and engaging as possible. To do that - we need good NPCs that are capable of playing a multitude of different parts throughout a weekend. This isn’t ‘easier’ than playing - it's much harder! We need you to have a solid grasp of all the nations of the Empire, and you’ll be working with detailed briefs that may involve magic, finance, diplomacy and foreign nations. It really helps to be an experienced roleplayer and is vital that you're familiar with the setting.

You only need to be on site shortly before the event starts, and while we ask that you help with the takedown of the monster tent before leaving, this usually only takes an hour or so after time out, so being an NPC is a great role for anyone who wants to be right in the heart of the game but cannot get to the event early or stay late.

All our plot crew are very busy throughout every event. This means that it is impossible to play an event and be a member of the plot crew. You will get a chance to take a few hours off each event to get out and socialize in-character if you want to, but you can't be an NPC and play the game. We also operate a permanent crew system, so while you're welcome to resume playing in the future if you want to, but you can't switch back and forth being playing and NPCing from one event to the next.

Plotredhat.jpg
Plot Tent Set-up

How much of the event will you see?

As an NPC, plenty of it, but as a player, you might only get a couple of hours over the whole weekend, if there’s time. We do try and allow for people to go and socialise, but your main focus should be on your NPC roles.

Requirements

  • Be available from Friday afternoon – pre-event briefing is at 4pm
  • Be available for an hour after time out for take down and packing
  • Have a solid knowledge of the Imperial Nations, and preferably the magic and economy systems
  • Be up for cycling through a variety of roles over the weekend, on your own and as part of groups

Referees

We are recruiting for our referee team. The Empire referees are one of the most visible and essential parts of the game, covering everything from battle field safety to bonding items, via rituals, poisonings and all sorts of shenanigans on the way.

Very roughly there are two types of referee role, you can both both, mostly one and dabble in the other or just one! The Field covers Anvil and Skirmish covers battles, skirmishes, encounters and most combat.

All referees are armed with a PD supplied tablet to look up rules for clarification and log player actions. You will also have a radio and ear-piece so you can communicate with the rest of the team. Back up and support is always on hand.

No one is ever thrown in without training and support, for your first event you will be teamed up with another member of the team who help you learn and make sure your confident and secure in the role.

On the Field you will be responding to player needs. This could be based in the Regio or the Ref Access Tent in the Dawn/Wintermark field or roving free range around Anvil as needed. The referees on the field are answering player queries, processing bindings, rituals and things that need data base queries. The tablet walks you through the process, you just need to enter the correct numbers! You get an opportunity to see all sides of the players games and know all the exciting and sneaky things going on!

On Skirmish you will become an expert in managing combat safety and applying the combat rules. This is a physical job, you will need to travel between God, Monster, the skirmish woods and field on a regular basis covering all the terrain in between and keeping up with player movements.

How much of the event will you see?

  • • You will be unlikely to play a character but opportunities to take on small roles in other departments can be arranged, e.g. plot writing, monstering, field NPCing with the Civil Service.

Requirements

  • You will be one of the main faces of the game and a lot of the work is customer service based. Being polite, approachable and knowing when to escalate is essential.
  • We would love you to have either experience as an Empire player OR experience of reffing other systems.
  • We would need you to learn the core Empire rules around commonly used items and actions before your first event
  • Be comfortable wearing a radio and earpiece at all times and using a tablet to record entries in a database
  • Being a referee can involve walking long distances as you cover the space of Anvil and will often be moving between player camps and God. There are places for referees with more static roles in the team with the Regio, Ref Access Tent and God bases.
  • Be on-site on Friday at 3 pm until the end of the event at 3 pm on Sunday afternoon


Skirmish Team

We need more people to join our skirmish team - The Hundred - to bolster our numbers and help in delivering combat encounters at events. The Skirmish Team runs in two main groups to deliver large military engagements and smaller plot-heavy encounters for players. As the game has grown the need for more orcs, heralds, undead, and unusual monsters has increased. To continue improving on our current encounters we need a larger team to muster for skirmishes and deliver combat encounters so more players can participate and have fun fighting for the Empire!

The majority of the time we play barbarian orcs from the tribes that surround the Empire, but also portray magical heralds, fearsome creatures, shambling undead, the monstrous Vallorn, and unassuming human citizens with nothing to hide... It can be an exhausting experience but as a team we look after each other and make sure we don’t push ourselves too far. We stop work each evening by 10 pm, then run through a briefing for the battle the next day. After this is done there is time to rest and relax with the rest of the team, head in character to enjoy Anvil, or take on a volunteer role in late-night low-combat encounters. With a larger team, we will be able to support larger military encounters and additional slots for our Plot Team to deliver a whole host of plots in the skirmish areas, encounter tents and in Anvil itself.

Ideally, we are looking for people who already have experience playing or crewing LRP, both at large fests and smaller events. Experience of Empire LRP is not essential but will help make it easier to understand the encounters you are part of, and what we are trying to achieve. Being a competent fighter is useful, as is being able to lead others, but these are not essential; being able to roleplay is however an essential thing we need!

The extra cool bits: "You get to play the varied threats faced by the players; access to the Empire arsenal of weapons and armour for monstering with; support from the rest of the team on creating cool orc costumes and kit; training in how to safely fight and engage the players of the game in combat!"

How much of the event will you see?

  • You will be involved in encounters during most of your event, but will have plenty of breaks for rest and food. There is a chance to play your own character after battle brief is done each evening.

Requirements

  • This role involves considerable physical exertion, involvement in LRP combat, and frequent running
  • This role includes frequent changes of kit, armour, and makeup
  • This role requires wearing latex masks for extended periods of time
  • You need to understand and follow the Empire LRP rules, especially those relating to combat and conduct
  • You will work with team leaders our Battle Team, Referee Team and Plot Writers to deliver exceptional encounters
  • You will assist with set-up and take-down of team kit and the battlefield areas before and after the event
  • Where possible you should commit to crewing for an extended period of time (four events); it is not possible to alternate between playing and crewing as part of the Skirmish Team


Synod Civil Service (Tribune)

The Civil Servants who support the Synod game are called the Tribune of the Synod, and it's their job to answer questions, accept new Judgements, advise players, and take their votes. We pride ourselves on having in-character Civil Servants who are a living, breathing part of the game world, and having a strong sense of camaraderie.

Primarily, you'd be helping player characters achieve their goals and ambitions by taking away the complicated bits of bureaucracy, enabling drama, intrigue and other gameplay. Frequently, this involves helping outside of the Synod as well - advising players on where to go, what options they have available, or who they might want to talk to.

Out of character experience with admin isn't necessary, but you'd need to be comfortable with helping out with the paperwork for much of the event, checking to make sure players have filled out Judgements correctly and recording their votes accurately. You'll be working alongside other experienced Civil Servants who will happily share their expertise and guide you through this.

You only need to be on site shortly before the event starts, but after that you'll be quite busy - Synod opens at time-in and apart from some small breaks, it closes at 10pm.

How much of the event will you see?

You'll be in your Field NPC role for most, if not all of the event, directly interacting with player characters as an immersive, in-character functionary. Although that'll be your main focus, you'll also get breaks to rest and relax, and freedom to head off and roleplay once Synod closes for the evening - though you won't be playing the game like a player would.

Requirements

  • Excellent customer service skills
  • Be available from 6pm Friday to 10pm in the evening
  • Be available from 10am Saturday to 10pm in the evening
  • Be available from 10am Sunday to 3pm in the afternoon
  • Ideally have a good knowledge of the game world, such as the Imperial Nations (but you'll learn Synod-specific processes on the job)

Security

Live roleplaying events are generally relaxed and friendly environments so we work with a small SIA registered security team. We supplement that team with volunteer marshals who work alongside security and help them keep a watchful eye on the site each night. We have spaces for both SIA registered security and volunteer marshals at present, in order to cover all our night shifts well and make it possible for each team member to have one night off.

The team covers Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 01:00 to 08.30 in the morning. Depending on your need for sleep, you can get quite a lot of play as a character in the game fitted in around your shifts, though you do need to make sure you save enough energy to do the job well. The team work closely with first aid, and with the conduct team and participant welfare, in order to make sure everyone stays safe whilst enjoying the event. In bad weather conditions, they are also responsible for securing tent structures that are at risk and dealing with other issues as they arrive.

How much of the event will you see?

  • Whilst getting enough sleep to cover your shifts is a priority, you may spend time between shifts playing a character and enjoying the event"

Requirements

  • Be able to work 1 am - 8.30 am shifts on security, either 2 (when we have enough cover) or 3 nights per event (Thurs, Fri, Sat)
  • Be able to walk around the site as part of that shift
  • Be sober for your shift in order to be a fully responsible team member
  • Be able to do physical tasks such as assisting carrying a person


Costume

The Costume team works closely with the NPC team to ensure they are maintaining the consistency of kit briefs entering the player field. During events the costume team manage the setup and take down of wardrobe, keep the kit rails tidy, accessible & organised. They are also in charge of creating, acquiring and repairing kit, typically during the downtime between events. This would be an ideal role for someone who makes costume for Empire already and has experience playing the game.

How much of the event will you see?

  • Plot Production crew are very busy throughout every event. This means that it is impossible to play an event and be a member of the plot crew. You will still get a chance to take some time off and socialise with friends, most likely towards the end of each day once the last remaining plots are run out.

Requirements

  • Be available from Thursday afternoon to help setup the costume department
  • Be available for an hour after time out for take down and packing
  • Have a good understanding of the costume briefs for each nation
  • We would prefer that you have experience of the Empire Game World

Props

The Props department is responsible for organising and maintaining PD's props and assisting with prop requests from the running plots of each event. Our props are sorted into numbered & labelled storage crates which many of the plot & plot production crew members will access throughout each event. Once the plot is finished the props team will return everything back into its boxy home.

Between events & occasionally during events specific prop requests will come in, and whilst it’s not the sole responsibility of the props department to facilitate these requests the role would suit someone with crafting skills. There are also ongoing efforts to create a searchable photo database, with photos being taken at each event during any downtime.

How much of the event will you see?

  • Plot Production crew are very busy throughout every event. This means that it is impossible to play an event and be a member of the plot crew. You will still get a chance to take some time off and socialise with friends, most likely towards the end of each day once the last remaining plots are run out.

Requirements

  • Be available from Thursday afternoon to help setup the props department
  • Be available for an hour after time out for take down and packing
  • Comfortable with lifting & shifting some relatively heavy storage crates
  • Have a good understanding of the visual briefs of each nation

Crew Links