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

Costume Director Assistant Stage Manager Director of Development Costume Shop Stitcher Vice President of Artistic Planning

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 and is led by Music Director Thierry Fischer, 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 increase diversity in American orchestras. The Alliance does so by offering Black and Latinx musicians a customized combination of mentoring, audition preparation, financial support, and audition previews. 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

Costume Director

JOB OVERVIEW:

As a leader in the Opera Production department and under the supervision of the Opera Director of Production, the Costume Director provides strategic oversight and personnel leadership for the active and highly-reputed USUO Costumes Department. We are seeking a leader who strategically collaborates with the Opera Artist Director to implement the overarching artistic vision for all USUO opera productions. The Costume Director will be a detail-oriented individual with strong organizational and interpersonal skills to manage the Costume Department and oversee all related aspects of costuming and wig & makeup for all opera productions. Supervisory duties primarily include direction and engagement of a full-time staff and part-time over-hires, working with guest designers, contracted builds, and directing a robust rentals department. This individual should be self-motivated and willing to look for ways to improve and create a team environment. Strong organizational and project management skills are required for budgeting and long-term planning. This job requires excellent leadership qualities, the ability to work under pressure, a positive and dedicated problem-solving attitude, and flexibility to new situations and changing priorities.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

Work with Director of Production, Artistic Team, and Guest Designers to ensure execution of all costume-related needs for all opera productions.
Strategically plan and create project workflow and timelines for all department needs.
Direct day to day operations of shop, including but not limited to hiring, scheduling, timesheet approving, and supervising staff for costume shop, rental department and wig & makeup designers.
Assign regularly shifting workloads for all costume staff including master tailor, first hand, shop foreman, stitchers, and Costume Rentals Manager.
Supervision of all costume construction, patterning, and costume/accessories maintenance for all opera production.
Manage, oversee, and order necessary supplies for all costume department operations.
Schedule and oversee costume fittings with an eye toward discretion, privacy, and tactful sensitivity.
Planning and maintaining budgets in collaboration with Director of Production and Finance Department.
Direct and work with Costume Rentals Manager to promote, manage, and execute rentals contracts.
With Costume Rentals Manager, build long-term strategy for maintaining and developing an increasingly robust rentals program.
Coordinate with Costume Rentals Manager to perform alterations as needed on rental packages.
Support Education Department for costume needs.
Assume additional responsibilities and perform special projects as needed or directed.

REQUIRED EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILLS:

BA (MFA preferred) in Theatre Arts or equivalent professional experience in a theatrical environment.
Successful experience managing personnel.
Experience in pattern drafting, costume builds, costume crafts, clothing construction, and both and machine sewing.
Experience in overseeing costume fittings.
Ability to creatively direct a team and skillfully achieve work.
Ability to prioritize among multiple projects and meet deadlines.
Advanced hand and machine stitching skills with the ability to oversee and coach staff.
Excellent organizational skills with attention to detail.
Professional work ethic and the ability to collaborate effectively with staff colleagues and outside/partner organizations.
Appropriate computer literacy with competence in Microsoft Office.
Thorough knowledge of various costume construction methods.
Ability to operate all costume workroom equipment.
Occasional nights and weekends required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Ability to remain stationary for long periods of time.
Ability to work on a computer for long periods of time.
Ability to manually work safely with shop equipment.
Ability to climb ladders to reach items.
Ability to move rolling clothing racks weighing up to 200 pounds.
Ability to twist, bend, reach, and lift up to 50 pounds.

SALARY RANGE:

Pay begins at: $60,000, plus excellent benefits

TO APPLY:

Please apply online. Application materials should include a cover letter and résumé. Applications with a cover letter will be prioritized.

Apply Online

Assistant Stage Manager

JOB OVERVIEW:

The Assistant Stage Manager will support the Stage Manager and Director of Production in elements of concert production: Share in rehearsal and concert stage management duties; Assist the Stage Manager in maintaining and managing Symphony equipment and properties; Share in truck driving responsibilities; Runner for Utah Opera main productions; Care and maintenance of Utah Symphony truck.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

Assist Stage Manager with setting the stage for Utah Symphony rehearsals and performances including loading/unloading Symphony truck when necessary.
Be familiar with stage conditions and other requirements associated with concert production outlined in musicians’ Collective Bargaining Agreement.
Participate in production related activities as directed such as calling lighting cues, starting concerts, piano moves, orchestra set changes, stage door paging, etc.
Assist Stage Manager with pre-concert lobby activities set-up and other related concert activities as required.
Act as runner for all Utah Opera main productions.
Supervise over-hire stage crew employees and IATSE crew as needed.
Serve as symphony truck driver (shared responsibility with Stage Manager and Director of Production).
Assist Director of Production with care and maintenance of Utah Symphony trucks.
Assist Director of Production with care, maintenance and rental of Utah Symphony property such as the instrument storage room, instruments, road cases, chairs, stands, stand lights, etc.
Assist Artistic team and Stage Manager with organization of hospitality and dressing rooms for Guest Artists and Conductors at Abravanel Hall and all other tour and run-out venues.
Assist artistic team and Stage Manager with maintenance of Conductor’s suite and Music Director’s needs including programs, water, towels, coffee, etc.
Laundry (towels for guest artists).
Support Director of Orchestra Operations and Director of Production on all matters related to the budget and actively work to reduce expenses where possible.
Other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILLS:

Ability to work well under pressure with diverse personalities.
Strong organizational skills.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Experience complying with and tracking a budget.
Basic knowledge of classical music, stage lighting, video projection & audio reinforcement helpful.
Night and weekend events are an essential part of the job. Individual must maintain a very flexible schedule.
Capable of obtaining and keeping a DOT medical card.
Working knowledge of Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Excel.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Prolonged periods of physical labor.
Prolonged periods of remaining stationary while driving or riding in a truck.
Moving heavy equipment (often exceeding 50 pounds) alone or with a team.
Prolonged periods of working outdoors in spring and summer months.

TO APPLY:

Please apply online. Application materials should include a cover letter and résumé. Applications with a cover letter will be prioritized.

Apply Online

Director of Development

JOB OVERVIEW:

As a member of the Development department, the Director of Development manages a portfolio of high value individual donors and prospects at all giving phases, including identification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship. Working in partnership with the VP of Development, the CEO & President, and the Board of Trustees, this Director will establish objectives and develop strategies to increase financial support from major donors. In addition to increasing support among donors for programs in and around USUO’s home venues (Maurice Abravanel Hall and the Janet Quinney Lawson Capitol Theatre), primary areas of focus include cultivating, soliciting and stewarding donors to the Deer Valley® Music Festival (DVMF), and building support in other markets in Utah, including, among others, Utah County and Washington and Iron Counties. The individual will play a leadership role in guiding USUO’s comprehensive campaign (currently in the planning phase) to secure funding for capital projects, the endowment fund, and increased annual support. The Director of Development must exhibit and maintain a tactful and sensitive demeanor with dozens of internal and external partners including the Development team, USUO Board of Trustees, the DVMF Council, Deer Valley Resort leadership and employees, civic community partners, and all USUO musicians, departments, and employees.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

Build on a successful VIP program at the Deer Valley® Music Festival (DVMF), now in its 19th year.
Grow the base of major donors in Salt Lake for both the Symphony and the Opera by identifying major gift prospects with the greatest potential to support USUO from among both existing and new donors.
Engage major donors to fulfill their passion and interests through their giving to USUO.
Build support in burgeoning markets including Utah, Washington, and Iron Counties, particularly for USUO programming in these communities.
Identify and qualify prospective donors and future board members; cultivate and steward existing donors; secure initial and subsequent gifts; increase overall retention and level of giving; and interact with board members, staff and volunteers.
Develop, execute and evaluate a plan of action designed to deepen and broaden long-term donor relationships with the organization resulting in increased donor involvement and financial support.
Identify and develop new prospects to protect the Major Donor list from natural attrition ensuring a model of overall growth.
Develop and implement strategies to re-engage donors whose financial support has decreased or stopped.
Work effectively as an active contributing member of the Development Team, while at the same time work independently to maximize gift opportunities.
Build strong working relationships with internal and external partners.
Take advantage of opportunities outlined in USUO’s 2022 strategic plan designed to grow audiences through new initiatives certain to attract donor interest, including the announcement of a new Music Director; a newly established relationship with a Creative Partner; exciting artistic initiatives for the Symphony, Opera and for USUO’s education and community engagement activities; and residencies and tours
Grow a budding planned giving program, and initiate additional strategies to secure legacy gifts
Secure funding for USUO special events such as galas, tours, and other projects.
With guidance from Pathway Consultants and in collaboration with leadership, participate in the initial planning of a Comprehensive Campaign to include upgrades and improvements to USUO home performance facilities; increases to the annual fund from approximately $8.5M to $10M; and to grow the endowment fund from approximately $41M to $100M.
Work closely with campaign consultants and USUO leadership to secure campaign leadership gifts, including naming opportunities as appropriate.
Identify and coach best peer solicitors from USUO’s volunteer leadership to grow donor pool and to secure lead gifts.
Maintain accurate records of all donor related activity in the database.
Participate in networking opportunities to broaden USUO range of engagement.
Collaborate with Marketing and Communications Department to create appropriate and useful materials.
Serve as ambassador for USUO and represent USUO at performances, events, and programs.

REQUIRED EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILLS:

A proven record in major gift fundraising.
Ability to work well under pressure with diverse personalities.
Excellent organizational skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Experience in budget management.
Night and weekend events are an essential part of the job. Individual must maintain a very flexible schedule.
Working knowledge of Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Excel.
Working knowledge of Tessitura software preferred.
Campaign experience a plus.
Planned giving experience a plus.
A strong affinity for the mission of USUO.
Adhere to the highest ethical standards.
Polished, positive, professional, and articulate with excellent interpersonal skills.
Collaborative and team-oriented.
Values diversity of thought, backgrounds, and perspectives.

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, particularly at Deer Valley

TO APPLY:

Please apply online. Application materials should include a cover letter and résumé. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered.

Apply Online

Costume Shop Stitcher

JOB OVERVIEW:

Under the supervision of the Costume Director, the Part-Time Costume Shop Stitcher assists the First Hand and Draper with stitching, finishing, and alterations of assigned costume elements. In addition, the Stitcher will occasionally assist in supporting the Utah Opera Costume Rentals Department. The stitcher will be a reliable, diligent, and active member of our team. We expect an individual with experience and skill who is both teachable while also willing also share their particular gifts with our collaborative team.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

Assist Draper and First Hand with fittings, cutting, pattern making, stitching and alterations of assigned costume elements.
Sew assigned costume pieces by hand or machine.
Complete hand and finish work as assigned.
Complete all assigned projects in an efficient, safe and timely manner.
Practice safe and appropriate use of common chemical-based products found in a costume shop including, but not limited to: Dye, Spray Paint, Barge, contact cement, spray adhesives, etc.
Participate in end of day shop cleaning and organization projects as needed.
Assist Costume Shop Director, Foreman, and the Costume Rentals Manager with pulling, inventorying, maintenance and transportation of costumes for Utah Opera productions and third-party rentals.
When requested, assist with the maintenance and laundry of the costumes.
Maintain a clean and safe workspace.
Other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILLS:

Experience with domestic and industrial sewing machines and sergers.
Knowledgeable about a variety of hand and machine sewing techniques.
Proficient in hand sewing.
Ability to operate basic costume workroom equipment.
Experience in garment construction.
Interest and experience in costume crafts including dying, distressing, and millinery.
Able to work consistently and regularly during heavy build and tech periods.
Ability to follow directions, work collaboratively with a team of diverse skill levels, and skillfully achieve work.
Periodic availability nights, weekends, and occasional holidays.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Ability to remain stationary for long periods of time.
Ability to work long hours with manual dexterity and caution.
Ability to cautiously and confidently move equipment.
Ability to occasionally climb and work on ladders.
Ability to twist, bend, reach, and lift up to 30 pounds.

SALARY RANGE:

Pay begins at: $17/hour

TO APPLY:

Please apply online. Application materials should include résumé, two work references, and links to personal work or website. Applications with a short cover letter will be prioritized.

Apply Online

Vice President of Artistic Planning

JOB OVERVIEW

USUO seeks an experienced and visionary individual who will be responsible for managing our overarching symphony artistic program. This includes planning the orchestra’s annual Masterworks concerts in conjunction with the Music Director, all series during the winter season from September to May, the Deer Valley Music Festival each summer, and all other special performances, tours, and run-outs. As a vital member of the Senior Team, this Vice President will seamlessly create, align, and incorporate all aspects of symphony artistic planning into the organization’s strategic plan. Additionally, this individual will be adept at developing the rehearsal and concert schedule, positively engaging and securing all guest artists/conductors, and skillfully managing artistic budget for the organization. The individual will expertly liaise with all members of the organization including the Music Director, Board, Administration, and Executive Office as well as be an ambassador to the public in civic and community interactions.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

Artistic Planning

Work to create artistically excellent and exciting programs that engage listeners and align with our strategic plan and annual institutional goals.
Utilize programming as a driver for engaging the support of our listeners, donors, and the many forms of audience development while simultaneously engaging with partner institutions in order to create meaningful impact and maintain our presence as a foundational arts organization across the community.
Develop, coordinate, and communicate programming for all Symphony concerts.
Coordinate with the Opera Artistic Director to develop season planning that aligns with and bolsters programming across the institution, with particular focus on vocal works (i.e., concert opera and oratorio concerts).
Coordinate with VP of Marketing and Communications regarding marketing, concert titles, performance budget goals for the symphony artistic program, and programming for Pops, Films, Specials, Family, and Deer Valley Music Festival.
Lead discussions and relay artistic vision for all staff in absence of Music Director. Educate staff, including marketing, ticket office, front office staff, and other administration in artistic/historical insights, pronunciations of Artist’s names and repertoire, and other significant information to carry out and support Symphony Artistic Vision.
Keep abreast of existing and emerging artistic talent and repertoire; make recommendations for performances and help steward excitement across the organization and into the community of supporters.
Plan and coordinate extensive run-out series with local presenters, i.e., Onstage Ogden, The Noorda at UVU, etc.
Manage and direct all artistic budgets and timelines for implementation and execution. Work with Sr. VP and COO to create annual budget projections that achieve artistic goals within annual budget guidelines.
Manage, produce, and execute all guest artist contracts. Work with Director of Operations to review and process Pops riders, special productions, symphony staged events, and other artistic elements.
Work with COO and Director of Operations, Orchestra Personnel Manager, and Director of Education to create annual orchestra season calendar.
Work with COO and Director of Operations to ensure that all contractual logistics are met for all guest artists, Music Director, and all other conductors.
Work with the COO and Director of Operations in the planning and execution of all touring and recording projects. Prepare and monitor all contracts, budgets, and payments for such projects.
Gain a working knowledge of the orchestra’s contractual bargaining agreement with the American Federation of Musicians.
Manage implementation of artistic plans by coordinating with the orchestra library, orchestra personnel office, program annotators/publishers, local radio broadcast producers.
Manage pre-concert lecture series and engage speakers as necessary.
Serve as staff liaison to the musicians’ Artistic Advisory Committee.
Serve as liaison between the Symphony Music Director, other constituents in the organization, and members of the community at large.
Participate in the design and development of education initiatives and outreach activities with the education department, opera artistic administration, and operations.
Participate with rehearsal and concert duty rotation with operations department and attend rehearsals, and performances as required.
Assume additional responsibilities and perform special projects as needed or directed.

REQUIRED SKILLS / ABILITIES:

Excellent customer service, interpersonal, and personnel management skills.
Excellent verbal, aural, and written communication skills.
Excellent collaboration and inclusive planning skills that facilitate engagement in our programs across the organization.
Excellent organizational and time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines and function calmly under pressure.
Able to effectively balance teamwork with working independently.
Detail-oriented, organized, able to problem solve and make critical decisions.
Excellent editing and proofreading skills.
Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint). Experience with field-specific databases OPAS and Tessitura a plus.
Occasional evenings, weekends, and travel required.

EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE

Bachelor’s degree in Music, Music Performance, or related degree.
Deep knowledge of orchestral repertoire and the field of guest conductors and artists across genres and styles. Conceptual vision for building seasons and the interaction of repertoire to create cohesive programs.
Minimum of six years’ experience in related positions.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Prolonged periods of remaining stationary and working on a computer.
Able to move equipment weighing up to 30 pounds.
Must have reliable transportation.

TO APPLY

Please apply online. Application materials should include a cover letter, résumé, and references. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered.

Beginning pay: Commensurate with experience

Apply Online