Connect our community with great live music.

Join our team and help support unforgettable musical experiences for our community at a 501(c3) non-profit organization that values excellence, integrity, trust, and communication.

OPEN POSITIONS

Major Gifts Officer/Philanthropy Advisor Marketing Manager Accounts Payable Specialist Vice President of Development Director of Communications

About Utah Symphony | Utah Opera

Utah Symphony | Utah Opera (USUO) connects Utah communities through great live music, serving as the premier provider of the orchestral and operatic art forms in the Intermountain West. The Utah Symphony, which performs at Salt Lake City’s Abravanel Hall, is one of the most engaged orchestras in the nation. In addition to numerous regional and domestic tours, it has embarked on seven international tours and performed at Carnegie Hall in 2016 coinciding with the orchestra’s 75th anniversary celebrations. Since 1978, Utah Opera has provided Utah’s citizens with distinguished productions at the historic Janet Quinney Lawson Capitol Theatre that showcase emerging and established artists, celebrate traditional works, and champion the American operatic tradition. USUO reaches 450,000 residents annually in Utah and the Intermountain region through its performances and educational programs, which serve more than 155,000 students annually. USUO produces four full operas and more than 175 symphony performances in each season throughout Utah and an annual summer festival – the Deer Valley® Music Festival – in Park City, Utah.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Utah Symphony | Utah Opera (USUO) is committed to connecting our community through the performance of great live music. In service of that goal and to create an incredible place to work, USUO prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, religion, disability, genetics, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964

Utah Symphony | Utah Opera is in compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 which maintains that no person in the United States shall, on the ground of race, color, or national origin, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance. If you have questions concerning USUO’s compliance with Title VI, please contact the office of the President & CEO.

National Alliance for Audition Support

Utah Symphony | Utah Opera is proud to be a partner in the National Alliance for Audition Support (NAAS), an unprecedented national initiative to assist American orchestras in representing everyone in our communities in our ensembles. NAAS is a partnership between the Sphinx Organization, League of American Orchestras, New World Symphony, and over 100 orchestras across the nation and is funded by a generous grant from the Mellon Foundation and contributions from the member orchestras. Learn more at www.auditionalliance.org.

Benefits & Perks at Utah Symphony | Utah Opera

Benefits: Full-time staff receive health coverage (USUO pays 100%), 401(k) contribution plan, and paid time-off and holidays.

Free Tickets: Staff receive complimentary and discounted tickets to Utah Symphony and Utah Opera performances.

Work that Matters: Music touches lives for good and enriches our community. Be part of an organization that brings beauty and happiness to the lives of people all over the state.

The staff supports USUO’s mission to connect the community through great live music by doing everything from promotion and fundraising to artistic planning and operations. View and apply for open positions below.

OPEN POSITIONS

Major Gifts Officer/Philanthropy Advisor

JOB OVERVIEW:

The Major Gifts Officer/Philanthropy Advisor at Utah Symphony | Utah Opera (USUO) serves as a trusted advisor and relationship partner to a portfolio of major donors and philanthropic prospects, guiding them toward meaningful, mission-aligned giving to USUO. This position combines the strategic discipline of frontline fundraising—identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding gifts of $10,000 and above—with a genuine commitment to understanding each donor’s values and connecting those values to the transformative impact of great, live music. Reporting to Vice President of Development, this role is a critical revenue driver for the organization at a time when growing individual philanthropic support is a top strategic priority.

Working in close partnership with Development colleagues and senior artistic and organizational leadership, this position builds meaningful, long-term donor relationships that deepen engagement with USUO’s symphony, opera, and festival programming and advances the organization’s mission to connect the community through great, live music.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

Portfolio Management and Fundraising:

Manage an active portfolio of major gift donors and prospects, with a focus on gifts of $10,000+.
Develop and execute individualized cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies for each portfolio donor, advancing them through a structured moves management process.
Conduct a minimum of 15–20 meaningful donor visits or substantive contacts per month, including in-person meetings, phone calls, and personalized written communications.
Meet or exceed annual revenue goals for the major gifts portfolio, with an initial target to be established based on portfolio assignment.
Collaborate with the Assistant Director of Membership and Development Operations to identify mid-level donors ($2,500–$9,999) with major gift potential and develop upgrade strategies.

Donor Stewardship, Engagement, & Retention:

Oversee timely and thoughtful fulfillment of donor benefits and recognition, ensuring each donor feels appropriately valued and connected to the organization.
Plan and execute donor cultivation and stewardship events such as open rehearsals, backstage tours, meet-and-greets, and exclusive donor experiences across USUO’s symphony, opera, and festival seasons.
Draft compelling gift proposals, acknowledgment letters, and other donor communications that connect philanthropic support to USUO’s artistic and community mission.
Partner with Development leadership and the President & CEO on top-tier donor meetings and solicitations as appropriate.
Coordinate with the VIP & Sponsorships Benefits Manager to ensure seamless benefit fulfillment and recognition for major donors.
Track donor engagement and giving activity in Tessitura to inform segmentation and moves management.

Prospect Research and Pipeline Development

In collaboration with the Assistant Director of Membership and Development Operations, qualify and prioritize new major gift prospects from within the existing donor base and through external sources.
Maintain accurate and timely records of all donor contacts, proposals, and moves in the organization’s CRM database.
Prepare regular portfolio reports and revenue projections for the Director of Development Operations and Institutional Giving or VP of Development.

Additional Responsibilities:

Serve as an ambassador for USUO at performances, events, and donor functions.
Staff events and performances as needed to support donor engagement.
Perform other duties as assigned.

DESIRED EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILLS:

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Minimum 4–5 years of frontline fundraising experience with demonstrated success in stewarding and securing major gifts.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling messaging.
Confidence and tact engaging with donors or potential donors, board members, and community partners.
Strong organizational and problem-solving skills and ability to manage competing priorities in a dynamic, deadline-driven environment.
Experience working with databases or CRM systems (Tessitura experience a plus).
Ability to analyze information and support data-informed decision-making.
Commitment to providing a high level of customer service and building strong relationships.
A willingness and ability to work some evenings and weekends.
A strong commitment to the mission of USUO, demonstrating a genuine interest and passion for the arts, especially opera and symphonic music.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Prolonged periods of remaining stationary and working on a computer.
Prolonged periods of standing and moving at events.
Ability to move up to 20 pounds.
Prolonged periods of working outdoors in spring and summer months.

SALARY:

Pay begins at $90,000-$100,000, plus a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, access to a cafeteria plan (HSA, FSA, DCAP), paid time off, and complimentary concert and performance tickets.

TO APPLY:

Please apply online and include a cover letter and résumé with your application. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered.

USUO will consider candidates with a broad range of backgrounds. If you are excited about this role and feel that you can contribute to USUO, but your experience does not exactly align with every qualification listed above, we encourage you to apply.

Apply Online

Marketing Manager

JOB OVERVIEW:

The Marketing Manager supports the Utah Symphony | Utah Opera (USUO) Marketing, Communications, and Patron Services department by executing assets for campaigns, and helping to shape the creative direction of marketing strategies to ensure USUO’s campaigns reach new audiences, ensure a positive patron experience, and support the patron loyalty journey. As a collaborative and engaged teammate and leader, the Marketing Manager reports to the Director of Marketing and supervises the Marketing and Communications Coordinator. Strong interpersonal skills, a proactive mindset, and the ability to manage multiple deadlines are essential, as this role collaborates with internal departments, creative freelancers, vendors, and advertising partners.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

Lead the development and execution of marketing campaign assets, ensuring that all materials align with campaign plans and strategies.
Write copy for advertising materials such as eblasts and postcards.
Guide and collaborate with graphic designers and the Director of Marketing to produce compelling promotional materials—including print, digital, outdoor (billboards, banners, posters, fliers), TV and radio ads, and direct mail (postcards, brochures).
Draft eblasts in Wordfly software with an eye toward appealing and user-friendly design.
Oversee visual brand, including photo selection for advertising materials.
Perform light graphic design work as needed.
Plan content schedule for assets such as venue signage, street banners, and lobby displays.
Plan, create, and oversee ordering of materials to ensure effective brand presence (welcome table, marketing tables, and other activations) at USUO performances and community events.
Support the Director of Marketing in tracking effectiveness of campaign assets.
Supervise the Marketing and Communications Coordinator, supporting their professional development.
Assist the Marketing & Communications Coordinator in building audience lists for marketing deliverables.
Attend Utah Symphony, Utah Opera, and Deer Valley® Music Festival performances in rotation with others in the department and act as an official marketing/PR representative.
Perform other duties as assigned and required.

REQUIRED EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILLS:

Bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, business, or other related field.
2+ years of commensurate experience; performing arts or event promotion experience preferred.
Skilled in editing marketing collateral for impact, clarity, and correct grammar.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.; proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite preferred.
An eye for design and basic graphic design skills.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Understanding of the creative development process and media planning.
Proven ability to find creative ways to reach target audiences.
Team player with proven ability to work collaboratively across departments and maintain effective interpersonal relationships.
Ability to professionally solve problems and meet multiple deadlines when under pressure.
Excellent organizational and project management skills.
Passion for and knowledge of symphonic music and opera.
Flexible working schedule, including evening and weekend events, required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Prolonged periods of remaining stationary and working on a computer.
Moves equipment weighing up to 30 pounds.
Must have reliable transportation.
Must have valid driver’s license.
Periods of working outdoors, including on uneven terrain, in spring and summer months, particularly at USUO’s Deer Valley® Music Festival.

SALARY:

Begins at $55,000, plus excellent benefits.

TO APPLY:

Please apply online and include a cover letter, résumé, and references with your application. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered

Apply Online

Accounts Payable Specialist

JOB OVERVIEW:

The Accounts Payable Specialist is a vital member of Utah Symphony | Utah Opera’s (USUO) Finance and Information Technology team. The incumbent for this position is expected to utilize fierce attention to detail, cumulative knowledge, and creative expertise to lead the clear, timely, and effective functioning of payables and internal charge processing. Under the guidance of the Controller, the specialist will provide high levels of service to the entire organization by fostering fiscal responsibility, including meeting deadlines and abiding by clear financial policies. Often acting as the direct point of contact between the organization and vendors, this individual will occasionally serve as a company ambassador in a forward-facing manner.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

Accounts Payable

Prepare, analyze, and input all invoices including verification of proper documentation (third party evidence, GL coding, and department approvals).
Assemble check processing, issuing, and mailing.
Reconcile credit cards and prepare for payment.
Manage BILL credit card system, including training of new organization members.
Oversee internal Expense Portal system.
Conduct Sales Tax reimbursements.
Collect, manage, and file appropriate tax documents (W-9 and W-8Ben).
Store and organize historical financial records.

Support Accounting Department

Resolve uncashed check payments.
Assist with annual audits.
Develop a streamlined process for accounts payable.
Support management through ad hoc data collecting, reporting, analysis.

REQUIRED EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILLS:

Two or more years’ experience in an accounting environment and/or an associate degree in a business-related field.
Strong Excel skills (formulas, pivot tables, etc.).
Working knowledge of Great Plains software, preferred.
Ability to interact with department managers to resolve financial or data discrepancies.
Strong analytical, problem-solving skills.
Excellent organizational skills with the ability to prioritize details and requests.
Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
Capacity to work both independently and collaboratively with the team and across functions.
Experience interacting with and providing support for customers.
Ability to adapt to the needs of the department.
Ability to keep information confidential.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Prolonged periods of remaining stationary and working on a computer.

SALARY:

Pay begins at $21/hour, plus excellent benefits.

TO APPLY:

Please apply online and include both a résumé and cover letter with your application. Applications with a cover letter will be prioritized.

Apply Online

Vice President of Development

JOB OVERVIEW:

Utah Symphony | Utah Opera (USUO) is one of the largest and most dynamic performing arts organizations in the Intermountain West. USUO uniquely unites a renowned, 52-week professional symphony, an internationally respected opera company and production operations, the Deer Valley® Music Festival in Park City, and a deep, statewide commitment to expanding access to music education and exceptional live performances.

The 2027–2028 season marks a defining moment in USUO’s history: the 50th anniversary of Utah Opera and the inaugural season of Music Director Markus Poschner. At the same time, the organization is embarking on a transformative renovation of its home, Maurice Abravanel Hall, aligned with Salt Lake City’s broader revitalization of its downtown Sports, Entertainment, Culture, and Convention District. Together, these milestones signal a bold new chapter for artistic excellence and civic connection.

At this pivotal moment, USUO seeks a strategic, relationship-driven Vice President of Development to shape and advance the organization’s philanthropic vision. As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, this leader will play a central role in guiding USUO’s continued growth, strengthening its impact, and positioning the organization for long-term success.

Reporting to the President and CEO, and working in close partnership with the CEO and Board of Trustees, the Vice President of Development will lead all fundraising efforts in support of USUO’s $31 million annual operating budget, endowment growth, and a comprehensive campaign to fund critical facility renovations and upgrades. Building long-term financial strength is essential to realizing USUO’s bold artistic ambitions and expanding meaningful engagement across our communities.

The ideal candidate will be an accomplished fundraising executive with a proven track record of success, sound judgment, a strong executive presence, and exhibit a deep appreciation for the performing arts. They will bring both strategic vision and hands-on leadership, inspire and develop high-performing teams, and serve as a compelling ambassador for USUO locally, statewide, and nationally.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

Strategic Leadership & Planning

In partnership with the President and CEO and Development team, develop and implement a comprehensive annual fundraising plan to include ambitious goals in support of exciting artistic, community engagement, and capital projects.
Develop compelling cases for the support that clearly conveys USUO’s artistic excellence, educational impact, and community value, supported by the ability to speak authentically and persuasively about the art and music we create.
Establish clear, measurable fundraising goals and lead the team consistently meet and exceed targets, supporting both immediate priorities and long-term objectives.
Partner closely with the CEO and Board of Trustees to recruit and develop Board members and to effectively engage them in fundraising, stewardship, and top-tier donor strategy.
Participate in senior leadership discussions to align fundraising strategies with organizational priorities and long-range planning. Cultivate a broad-based culture of philanthropy throughout the organization.
Serve as chief advisor to the CEO and Board of Trustees on all matters related to philanthropy and donor engagement. Serve with the CEO primarily in a role of relationship building, advocating for the organization, and stewarding significant funding opportunities.
Work across the organization, especially with leadership, to help maximize the return on investment of integrated and informed strategies, prioritizing those with the greatest impact on achieving fundraising goals.
Lead direct reports to manage the daily activities of the department, ensuring exceptional donor care and fostering continued support for our community impact.

Major Gifts & Donor Engagement

Manage and cultivate a personal portfolio of major donors and prospects.
Deepen and broaden long-term donor relationships through thoughtful stewardship and strategic engagement.
Challenge and lead the department to Identify and qualify new prospects and implement effective strategies to secure support from individuals, foundations, corporations, and public sources.
Analyze fundraising activities and results to inform strategies, benchmark with peer institutions, and stay abreast of best practices in the field.

Campaign & Revenue Strategy

Design and execute strategies for annual fund initiatives, endowment campaigns, challenge grants, and planned giving programs.
Partner with and strategically guide board members to maximize personal engagement and fundraising effectiveness.
Leverage data systems to inform prospect strategy and portfolio management.

Stewardship & Communications

Demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for cultivating relationships with board members, donors, subscribers, and individuals at every stage of their engagement with USUO and our artforms.
Ensure a high standard of donor acknowledgment, recognition, and impact reporting.
Collaborate closely with the Marketing, Communications, and Patron Services team to align messaging and deliver a top-tier experience for every patron.
Serve as a visible and engaging ambassador at performances, events, and community functions.

Departmental Leadership

Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing development team across annual fund, major gifts, operations, events, and research.
Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and donor-centered service.
Oversee staffing and budget strategy to ensure donor investments are managed responsibly and translated into meaningful artistic and community impact.

DESIRED EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILLS:

Passion for fundraising, nonprofit leadership, and the performing arts.
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
10+ years of progressive leadership experience including five+ years in the performing arts.
Demonstrated success securing major (six- and seven-figure) gifts from individuals and institutions and leading comprehensive fundraising programs. While institutional and public giving continues to grow, it is already particularly strong and important in this market. Success in these relationships is imperative.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
Executive presence with strong interpersonal and relationship-building abilities.
Strategic thinker with strong analytical and organizational skills.
Knowledge of local national philanthropic trends and needs and quick ability to understand local trends.
Experience working with CRM systems (Tessitura preferred) and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
Ability to work collaboratively and independently in a fast-paced environment.
Willingness to work evenings and weekends in support of performances and donor events.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Prolonged periods of remaining stationary and working on a computer.
Prolonged periods of standing and moving at events.
Ability to move up to 20 pounds.
Outdoor work in spring and summer months.

TO APPLY:

We are conducting a national search seeking the best candidates to engage with our multi-faceted musical organization. Please apply online and include both a résumé and cover letter with your application. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered.

Apply Online

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

JOB OVERVIEW:

At an exciting time of growth and expansion in the Marketing, Communications, and Patron Services Department, USUO is adding a Director of Communications position. This individual is responsible for shaping and amplifying the public voice of Utah Symphony | Utah Opera (USUO) across the State and beyond. This position leads strategic messaging, brand positioning, media relations, crisis communications, and institutional storytelling to advance ticket sales, fundraising, community engagement, and statewide impact.

Reporting to the Vice President of Marketing & Communications and supervising the Communications Manager, this individual collaborates cross-functionally with Marketing, Development, Education & Community Engagement, Artistic, and senior leadership to ensure clear, cohesive, and compelling messaging aligned with USUO’s mission and strategic priorities.

As a communications expert, this Director plays a critical role in advancing USUO’s artistic reputation, financial sustainability, and community relevance. By elevating public perception and deepening audience connection, this role helps ensure the continued vibrancy and statewide impact of one of Utah’s premier cultural institutions.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

Develop and implement multi-channel communications strategies to support USUO’s mission and aligned with institutional goals; increase local and national brand visibility, build audiences for performances and events, and support in driving ticket sales and donations.
Lead brand positioning and create messaging platform, ensuring consistency and cohesion, championing USUO’s unique brand position as a statewide symphony serving communities across Utah and beyond, shaping and enhancing the public profile of the organization locally and nationally.
Collaborate inter-departmentally and cross-departmentally to support and advise colleagues’ internal and external communications needs and ensure consistent adherence to key messages, branding, and organizational goals across the institution.
Help voice and messaging for season announcements, major fundraising campaigns, and special projects.
Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with local, regional, and national media; generate earned media by developing press plans; and create media pitches and announcements.
Serve as point person for all press inquiries and activity.
Draft communications for CEO, board chair, and artistic leadership as appropriate.
Cultivate new audiences and deepen loyalty of existing patrons and donors by guiding institutional storytelling strategy, and writing and creating content, across print and digital platforms.
Serve as editor-in-chief of playbills.
Serve as editor and proofreader for institutional materials.
Provide direction on visual brand.
Manage the public relations budget.
Attend Utah Symphony, Utah Opera, and Deer Valley® Music Festival performances in rotation with others in the department and act as an official marketing/PR representative.
Hire, train, supervise, and develop the Communications Manager to ensure alignment with departmental and organizational priorities.
Perform other duties as assigned and required.

DESIRED EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILLS:

Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, or other relevant field.
6-10+ years of progressive communications or public relations leadership experience, preferably in performing arts, nonprofit, or mission-driven organizations.
Proven success in media relations and reputation management.
Exceptional writing and editorial skills across multiple formats and audiences.
Experience managing staff and external vendors/agencies.
Strategic thinker with strong judgment and executive presence.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, performance-driven environment.
Demonstrated organizational and project management abilities with a track record of meeting deadlines.
Strong understanding of marketing, communications, and brand positioning required.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Strong attention to detail.
Ability to work in a highly collaborative culture as well as work independently; self-starter.
Ability to prioritize tasks and remain flexible to department needs when appropriate.
Passionate and knowledgeable about symphonic music and opera.
Knowledge of Microsoft Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook, Teams).

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Prolonged periods of remaining stationary and working on a computer.
Moves equipment weighing up to 30 pounds.

SALARY:

Pay begins at $72,000, plus excellent benefits.

TO APPLY:

Please apply online and include both a résumé and cover letter with your application. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered.

Apply Online