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

Cutter/Draper Communications Manager Assistant Stage Manager 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

Cutter/Draper

JOB OVERVIEW:

As a member of the USUO Costume Department, and under the supervision of the Costume Director, the Cutter/Draper serves as a leader in the Costume Department. The areas of work are threefold: costume technical expertise, project management, and communication. This individual will bring expertise in all aspects of costume alteration and building in order to not only execute technical, hands-on creations but also provide overarching guidance and instruction for Department members under the direction of the Costume Director. Our ideal teammate in this role will be as comfortable finishing exquisite costume details as overseeing and assisting Costume Department members with large-scale project workflow. As a representative of USUO, this individual should be professionally suited when interacting with guest designers, contractors, or other third-party contacts. We expect the individual to excel at assisting in organizational projects and aiding in the evolution of Department procedures. This individual will provide creative and collaborative guidance/suggestions for the entire Opera Production team with the Costume Director and be an excellent and patient instructor with blossoming Costume Department members.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

Drape/draft patterns primarily (but not exclusively) for female-presenting characters.
Cut and prepare costume alterations and builds to be stitched.
Translate sketches and drawings created by a costume designer to build costumes.
Determine fabric and trim yardage for costumes and help source as assigned.
Report design concerns to the Costume Director and costume designer as appropriate.
Instruct and oversee alterations and construction for primarily female-presenting costumes.
Work with Costume Director to keep track of team progress.
Stitch as needed.
Establish accurate body and garment measurements using the imperial system.
Run costume fittings under the guidance of Costume Director.
Manage costume supplies and communicate needs to Costume Director in a timely manner.
Execute alterations for mainstage, Resident Artist productions, and rentals as necessary.
Attend mainstage dress rehearsals.
Assist Costume Director with work flow and schedule of all Costume Department goals.
Help maintain a safe, clean, and organized workplace.
Assist with day-to-day maintenance and cleanliness of costume workspaces and equipment.
Related duties as assigned by Costume Director.

REQUIRED EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILLS:

Minimum 5 years’ experience in professional theatrical costume construction.
MFA in Costume Technology or commensurate professional experience preferred.
Expertise in costume history, theater costume techniques, and materials.
Expertise in pattern drafting and draping, costume builds and construction.
Expertise in assisting and leading costume fittings.
Ability to work collaboratively with a team and skillfully delegate work.
Advanced hand and machine stitching skills with the ability to instruct others.
Professional work ethic and ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues and outside/partner organizations.
Advanced knowledge of various costume construction methods.
Ability to operate all costume workroom equipment.
Ability to utilize electronic tools (MS Word, Excel, Outlook, Access, OneDrive; Google docs).
Ability to communicate professionally in writing and verbally.
Ability to work during the established work periods.
Occasional nights and weekends required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Ability to remain stationary for long periods of time.
Ability to manually work safely with shop equipment.
Ability to climb ladders to reach items.
Ability to occasionally move rolling clothing racks weighing up to 200 pounds.
Ability to twist, bend, reach, and lift up to 50 pounds.
Ability to safely transport costumes in personal car to/from venues.

TO APPLY

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

Apply Online

Communications Manager

JOB OVERVIEW

The Communications Manager will serve as a key contributor toward strategies that build audiences, and will bring energy and imagination toward developing content that will engage our communities. This manager communicates through traditional and digital channels with varied audiences in all phases of their journey with USUO—prospective audiences, new audiences, and longtime patrons—adjusting the style and content of messages to properly resonate with each audience segment. The manager will help oversee internal and external communications for USUO with a specific eye toward creative and data-driven content, as well as developing press and media relationships.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

Develop messaging and serve as a copywriter for marketing and institutional content, ensuring audience-centric language and consistency with mission and brand identity.
Develop and implement effective communication strategies to strengthen audience loyalty and build brand awareness.
Collaborate cross-departmentally to stay informed on events, accomplishments, and news from across the organization to share externally.
Manage social media presence (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn), developing strategy for creative, multimedia, organic and paid content that incites authentic engagement with the public, maximizes visibility, and drives revenue. Stay up-to-date on emerging social media channels.
Oversee production of playbills, gathering and developing content that engages and enhances the experience of concert patrons. Serve as chief proofreader and fact-checker.
Create and deploy press releases; manage press relationships and manage interview opportunities, serving as a spokesperson as needed.
Manage contracted photographers and videographers: create photography plan and manage video projects.
Proofread and edit written materials. Ensure USUO messaging is consistent and engaging.
Provide input on visual brand identity.
Track and report on social media data and insights. Adapt and modify campaigns accordingly.
Manage the public relations budget. Track expenses and submit invoices for payment.
Develop an understanding of departmental structure and workflow in order to help, with the Marketing Manager, guide and support the work of the Marketing & Communications Coordinator.
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 communications, journalism, public relations, music, or related field required.
Three to five years of experience in a similar role.
Strong knowledge of communication practices and techniques.
Proven experience in creating audience-sensitive content.
Expertise in social media platforms and reporting tools.
Experience interacting with and providing support for customers.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Excellent and versatile copywriting skills and high-level of attention to detail in proofreading.
Excellent organizational skills.
Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
Strong leadership skills and ability to work independently.
Ability to adapt to the needs of the organization and employees.
Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate when appropriate.
Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
Basic photography, videography, and photo editing skills preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
Moves equipment weighing up to 30 pounds.

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

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

Vice President of Artistic Planning

JOB OVERVIEW

In this record-breaking subscription sales year of 2024, Utah Symphony | Utah Opera (USUO) has made exciting progress toward our overarching strategic plan goal of audience development. We seek a visionary and experienced Vice President of Artistic Planning to support these successes by collaborating with of our future Music Director, engaging our audiences, further developing our world class ensemble, and participating in USUO’s energetic and committed staff culture.

In alignment with our strategic plan and mission, our VP of Artistic Programming will “connect our community through great live music” by programming repertoire and envisioning new experiences that understand Utah’s communities and guides them to an artistic future of wonder and engagement.

The planning scope includes artistic budgeting and programmatic development of all series during the season from September to May, the Deer Valley Music Festival in Park City each summer, and all other special performances, tours, and run-outs. This individual will positively engage and secure all guest artists/conductors and collaboratively work across departments to drive USUO to success.

As we connect our musicians, artists, board, and staff with our audience and communities, we expect this individual to proactively participate in building and maintaining these connections by being a consummate ambassador for the organization.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

Create artistically excellent and relevant programs that engage listeners, align with our strategic plan, support annual institutional goals, and engender donor support. This work includes envisioning and planning repertoire across all USUO programs, including Education concerts, Pops, Films, Specials, Family Concerts, and the Deer Valley Music Festival
Engage with community partners to create meaningful impact and solidify our reputation as the foundational arts organization in our communities.
Drive discussions and relay artistic vision to all staff and local partners with or on behalf of Music Director, including educating constituents of artistic, historical, or other significant repertoire or artist insights.
Keep abreast of diverse and emerging artistic talent and repertoire; make relevant recommendations for performances and help galvanize internal and external excitement.
Work with the COO to create responsible annual artistic budget projections and program timelines that achieve artistic goals.
Work across departments to manage the annual orchestra season calendar with an eye toward balancing USUO operational goals with guest artists’ contractual needs.
With Director of Operations, manage, produce, and execute guest artist contracts; review Pops riders, special productions, symphony staged events, and other artistic elements.
Coordinate with the Opera Artistic Director to develop season planning that aligns with and bolsters programming across the institution.
Proactively coordinate with VP of Marketing and Communications to share up-to-date repertoire details, discuss net sales potential, relay artistic goals, and develop community-sensitive programming.
Plan and coordinate extensive run-out series with long-standing partners across Utah.
Work with the COO and Director of Operations to plan and execute all touring and recording projects, including contracts and budgeting.
Gain detailed working knowledge of the orchestra’s contractual bargaining agreement with the American Federation of Musicians.
Skillfully implement artistic plans by coordinating with the orchestra library, program annotators/publishers, orchestra personnel office, local radio broadcast producers; serve as staff liaison with the musicians’ Artistic Advisory Committee.
Participate in the design and development of education initiatives and outreach activities with the education department, opera artistic administration, and operations; develop pre-concert lecture series and engage speakers as necessary.
Participate with rehearsal and concert duty rotation with Operations Department and attend rehearsals, and performances as required.
Oversee Artistic Planning Manager, Artistic Planning Coordinator (with MD), Assistant Conductor, Guest Artists, and Guest Conductors.
Assume additional responsibilities and perform special projects as needed or directed.

REQUIRED SKILLS / ABILITIES:

Excellent interpersonal, personnel management, and negotiation skills.
Excellent verbal, aural, and written communication skills.
Excellent collaboration and inclusive planning skills.
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

Advanced degree in Music, Music Performance, or related degree preferable.
Deep knowledge of both historical and emerging orchestral repertoire and artists.
Current and informed knowledge of guest conductors and artists across genres and styles.
Minimum of six years’ experience in related programming and operational 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.

Apply Online