Careers at Opera San Jose

Carpenter

4Description

Reporting to the Assistant Technical Director, the Carpenter is a member of the theatrical scenery production team. This position joins colleagues in ownership of responsibility for the professional execution of technical production issues. This position works closely with the Scene Shop Supervisor and other craftsmen, as well as with the Production Manager, Head of Properties, Costume Director, and Production Stage Manager as per the needs of each production.

Now entering its 42^nd season, Opera San José is one of the leading cultural institutions in Silicon Valley and is distinctive in supporting Resident Company Artists, with onsite Scenic and Costume shops, as well as a local scenic warehouse. With a $6M budget, Opera San José’s mission and commitment is to incubating talent and innovation across the field.

Responsibilities

• In coordination with the Master Carpenter and Scene Shop Supervisor, construct scenery per design specifications.
• Assist Head of Props with construction assistance on larger scenic props on request.
• Assist direction of load-ins and load-outs.
• Provide hands-on advanced carpentry skills, and from time to time supervise crews of carpenters.
• As needed, consults with Artistic, Music, & Production (AMP) colleagues on technical requirements for events in the Heiman Digital Studio.
• Ensure scenery meets all safety and mobility standards.
• Construct special projects for outside customers.

Ideal Skills & Experience Sought

• 3+ years’ experience as Carpenter or 1+ year experience as Master Carpenter of a scenery construction company or similar.
• Experience effectively leading multiple IATSE crews of up to 16 people total
• Knowledge of current OSJ Cal-OSHA standards and a strong proclivity for shop safety
• Ability to train inexperienced crew on proper/safe tool use of all shop tools
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (including Word, Excel, Outlook, and Power Point) or comparable.
• Good organizational skills and multi-step task retention 
• Basic knowledge of electrical and shop tool repair
• Eye for detail 
• Adept at troubleshooting and providing solutions 
• Experience assisting charge painter with simple painting when absolutely necessary

Minimum Requirements for Consideration

• Able to drive a 26’ box truck
• 2 years technical theater college or professional theater construction experience. 
• Ability to lead a crew of 4 or more
• Valid driver’s license and driving record which passes insurance company check of DMV records.
• Read and build from design and technical drawings
• Able to collaborate and effectively communicate with colleagues
• Safely use standard carpentry tools: table saw, miter saw, jig saw, grinder, sander, etc.
• MIG welding experience
• Self-motivated
• Scenery load-in and load-out experience inside a theater
• Forklift operation
• Comfortable on a 16’ ladder or 32’ personnel lift such as a Genie lift
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Compensation

This position is classified as full-time non-exempt with an hourly wage range of $29.00 to $34.00 depending on expertise and experience. This position is eligible for company benefits, which currently include 15 days vacation, generous sick and holiday time, 403b savings with a 3% match, employer-sponsored health plans with a shared premium, and pre-tax flexible spending accounts. Professional development opportunities are available and encouraged for all employees. Benefits may change from time to time as Management determines

Work Location & Schedule

Work is required primarily on-site in order to interface with team members and artists. The principal work location is Opera San José’s Scene Shop at 2245 Paragon Drive, San Jose CA, and the California Theatre in downtown San Jose when in production. Regular business hours are Monday to Friday, 8am – 5pm with evening and weekend work during in-theater load-ins, tech rehearsals and performances. The ideal candidate for this role must live or be willing to live in the San Jose Bay Area.

Physical Expectations

• Ability to lift 50 pounds safely.
• Ability to sit and stand for extended periods of time.

Company Culture                     

Opera San José, in desiring a more equitable world, is committed to fostering equity in our art form. Opera in the twenty-first century can and should demonstrate today’s values of equity and inclusion. We believe in building, fostering and sustaining a company that reflects, celebrates and serves the diverse communities of the Bay Area. Opera San José cultivates a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork and respect among all employees. We are firmly committed to maintaining a work atmosphere in which people of diverse backgrounds may grow personally and professionally.

Opera San José is an equal opportunity employer. It is our strong belief that equal opportunity for all employees is central to the continuing success of our organization. We will not discriminate against an employee or applicant for employment because of race, religion, gender, national origin, ethnicity, age, physical disabilities, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, or veteran status in hiring, promoting, training, benefits, recommendations, rate of pay or other forms of compensation. Opportunity is provided to all employees based on qualifications and job requirements.

To Apply

Interested applicants should submit a resume at www.operasj.org/careers

Assistant Stage Manager

Opera San José is looking for qualified Bay Area/San José local Assistant Stage Manager candidates for its 2025-2026 season. Candidates should indicate which production(s) that are applying for.

2025-2026 Season

Cosi fan tutti: August 11 – September 28, 2025
Madama Butterfly: October 13 – November 30, 2025
Cavalleria Rusticana/Pagliacci: January 12– March 1, 2026
La Traviata: March 16 – May 3, 2026 

Responsibilities:

• ASM will attend all staging, technical, and dress rehearsals, production meetings, and performances as indicated by the production calendar.
• ASM will report to the PSM, and support the PSM in the management of show paperwork including but not limited to rehearsal, tech, and performance reports, tech train schedules, contact lists, and daily rehearsal schedules, deck sheets, scene breakdowns, WWW’s, spice matrix, and first entrance timings.
• ASM will support the PSM in running daily rehearsals, and will step in to run the rehearsals themselves when PSM is not available.
• Ensure rehearsal venues are properly set up for daily rehearsal activities and ensure rehearsal preparation and coordinate daily needs with scenic, lights, props, and costumes departments
• Create an ASM score for personal track of the show (performer cues, prop hand offs, presets, wardrobe changes, etc.)
• During the tech period, in addition to regular rehearsal duties, ASM shall work and communicate closely with the PSM, run crews and TD on scenic moves.
• Supervise the work of 5-6 deck crew members and the prop runner
• ASM will report rehearsal, production, or artist issues or concerns to OSJ management in a timely manner.
• ASM will be fully conversant in OSJ COVID production safety protocols as well as Santa Clara County COVID health mandate in order to appropriately and safely execute their duties and activities in rehearsals and backstage.

Qualifications

• Experience working in professional opera
• Experience working shows with multiple scenic shifts
• Excellent communication and organizational skills
• Ability to work effectively as a member of a team
• Ability to read music and piano/vocal scores

Compensation

This is a part-time, hourly, temporary position paid at $22/hour and is not eligible for benefits. No housing or travel stipend provided.

Location

All rehearsals and performances are held in San José, CA.

Company Culture:
Opera San José, in desiring a more equitable world, is committed to fostering equity in our art form. Opera in the twenty-first century can and should demonstrate today’s values of equity and inclusion. We believe in building, fostering, and sustaining a company that reflects, celebrates, and serves the diverse communities of the Bay Area. Opera San José cultivates a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all employees. We are firmly committed to maintaining a work atmosphere in which people of diverse backgrounds may grow personally and professionally.

Equal Opportunity:

Opera San José is an equal opportunity employer. It is our strong belief that equal opportunity for all employees is central to the continuing success of our organization. We will not discriminate against an employee or applicant for employment because of race, religion, gender, national origin, ethnicity, age, physical disabilities, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, or veteran status in hiring, promoting, training, benefits, recommendations, rate of pay or other forms of compensation. Opportunity is provided to all employees based on qualifications and job requirements.

To apply: Please submit your resume at www.operasj.org/careers.

Director of Production

The Director of Production is a key senior leader responsible for managing all technical and production aspects of Opera San José’s performances and events. Working closely with the General Director & CEO, Associate Director of Artistic and Music Operations, Associate Technical Director, and creative teams, this position ensures that all productions are executed to the highest artistic standards while staying within budget and schedule. The Director of Production oversees scenic, costume, lighting, and technical operations, managing department heads and union crews to deliver world-class opera experiences.

Primary Responsibilities

Production Management

• Serve as lead producer for all technical aspects of productions (mainstage, digital, and special events).
• Supervise all production departments including Scenic, Costumes, Props, Lighting, Sound, and Stage Management.
• Manage the Production Manager, supporting their leadership in coordinating production logistics, budgeting, calendars, rentals, and crew operations.
• Develop and manage production calendars, ensuring alignment with artistic and music schedules.
• Oversee production budgets, working closely with department heads on labor, materials, and rentals.
• Track production expenses, reconcile actuals, and flag overages proactively.

Team Leadership & Supervision

• Hire, manage, and evaluate production staff, crew heads, and over-hire technicians.
• Foster collaboration across departments and ensure a safe, inclusive, and respectful working environment.
• Serve as liaison with IATSE and oversee implementation and compliance with Collective Bargaining Agreements.

Production Operations

• Oversee load-in, tech, performances, and strike for each production.
• Lead weekly production meetings and ensure accurate dissemination of production notes and schedules.
• Ensure all union and safety regulations are followed.

Creative Collaboration

• Collaborate with directors and designers to realize their artistic vision within OSJ’s resources.
• Manage communication between designers and production departments throughout pre-production and rehearsal.

Facilities, Rentals & Inventory

• Supervise maintenance and improvements for OSJ’s scenic shop, costume shop, and warehouse.
• Oversee inventory tracking and resource sharing across productions and rentals.
• Lead OSJ’s Set, Prop, and Costume Rentals and Build for Hire program, a key component of the company’s revenue generation strategy.
• Ensure safety, functionality, and cost-efficiency in facilities and production equipment.

Planning & Strategy

• Participate in long-term season planning and production feasibility analysis.
• Provide input on co-productions, rentals, and capital equipment needs.

Other Duties

• Represent OSJ at production-related community and industry events.
• Attend all performances and production weeks.
• Additional duties as assigned.

Requirements

• 7+ years of experience in theatrical production management, preferably in opera or performing arts
• Proven leadership of teams and complex projects
• Strong budgeting and organizational skills
• Familiarity with union contracts and technical production workflows
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends

Compensation

Salary range: $85,000–$95,

This position is classified as salaried exempt, which will be paid an annual salary and is not eligible for overtime pay. This position is eligible for company benefits, which currently include 15 days vacation, generous sick and holiday time, 403b savings with a 3% match, employer-sponsored health plans with a shared premium, and pre-tax flexible spending accounts. Professional development opportunities are available and encouraged for all employees. Benefits may change from time to time as Management determines

Location & Hours

This role is based in San José, CA. Work is primarily in person at OSJ’s scene shop, costume shop, rehearsal studio, and the California Theatre. Evening and weekend availability is required during production periods.

Company Culture

Opera San José, in desiring a more equitable world, is committed to fostering equity in our art form. Opera in the twenty-first century can and should demonstrate today’s values of equity and inclusion. We believe in building, fostering and sustaining a company that reflects, celebrates and serves the diverse communities of the Bay Area. Opera San José cultivates a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork and respect among all employees. We are firmly committed to maintaining a work atmosphere in which people of diverse backgrounds may grow personally and professionally.

Opera San José is an equal opportunity employer. It is our strong belief that equal opportunity for all employees is central to the continuing success of our organization. We will not discriminate against an employee or applicant for employment because of race, religion, gender, national origin, ethnicity, age, physical disabilities, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, or veteran status in hiring, promoting, training, benefits, recommendations, rate of pay or other forms of compensation. Opportunity is provided to all employees based on qualifications and job requirements.

To Apply: Please submit your resume and cover letter outlining your interest at www.operasj.org/careers

Artistic and Production Operations Manager

Reports to: Director of Production and Associate Director of Artistic and Music Operations

Location: Opera San José, San José, California

Description

Opera San José seeks a highly organized and solutions-oriented Artistic and Production Operations Manager to oversee and coordinate the administrative and logistical functions that support the company’s Artistic and Production departments. This mid-level position plays a vital role in ensuring OSJ’s rehearsals, performances, rentals, and community programs run smoothly and efficiently.

Reporting jointly to the Director of Production and the Associate Director of Artistic and Music Operations, the Manager will serve as the operational linchpin between departments—facilitating schedules, artist services, production communications, and contracting processes. This is an ideal opportunity for a motivated professional with experience in live performance logistics who wants to contribute meaningfully to both the creative and technical execution of opera.

Key Responsibilities

Company-Wide Scheduling & Calendar Oversight

• Manage and update the company-wide master calendar including rehearsals, tech schedules, performances, and special events
• Coordinate and communicate all schedule updates across Artistic, Production, Music, and Administrative teams
• Anticipate conflicts and proactively propose solutions in collaboration with department heads

Production and Rehearsal Logistics

• Serve as lead coordinator for all rehearsal space scheduling, orchestra setups, and venue access needs
• Act as liaison with California Theatre and other venues for backstage logistics, security, and artist services
• Coordinate supertitles support, backstage hospitality, and production-related logistics

Artist & Crew Support

• Oversee travel, housing, hospitality, and general services for visiting artists, designers, and overhire crew
• Serve as point-of-contact for artists and production personnel on-site during rehearsal and performance periods
• Ensure timely dissemination of daily schedules, call times, and internal memos

Contracting & Administrative Oversight

• Draft and administer contracts for artists, creative teams, and production staff as assigned
• Track deliverables, payments, and reimbursements; process invoices and per diems with finance team support
• Maintain digital records, design archives, production history database, and artistic/technical inventory lists

Interdepartmental Communication

• Prepare agendas and notes for Artistic and Production department meetings
• Ensure the Artistic and Production teams are aligned in weekly and long-term planning
• Support internal coordination for community events, donor-facing programs, and auditions

Rental & Revenue Support

• Assist in tracking and coordinating OSJ’s set, prop, and costume rentals and build-for-hire activities
• Maintain accurate inventory records and support catalog updates with scenic and costume shops

Apartment Rental Program

• Oversee Opera San José’s apartment rental program in coordination with the contract rental manager
• Ensure apartments are cleaned, stocked, and prepared for external renters when not occupied by artists

Other Duties

• Serve as rehearsal or event stage manager for community concerts and lab productions as needed
• Provide cross-functional administrative support for production planning, artistic operations, and strategic initiatives
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of experience in arts administration, stage or production management, or artistic operations
• Proven ability to manage complex schedules, people, and priorities
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills across departments and artist relationships
• Experience with contract creation and vendor/artist services preferred
• High attention to detail and ability to anticipate logistical challenges
• Proficiency in Google Workspace, Microsoft Office; familiarity with project management or calendar tools
• Knowledge of opera and/or classical music a plus
• Ability to lift 25 lbs and work evenings/weekends during production weeks

Compensation

Salary range: $69,000–$75,000

This position is classified as salaried exempt, which will be paid an annual salary and is not eligible for overtime pay. This position is eligible for company benefits, which currently include 15 days vacation, generous sick and holiday time, 403b savings with a 3% match, employer-sponsored health plans with a shared premium, and pre-tax flexible spending accounts. Professional development opportunities are available and encouraged for all employees. Benefits may change from time to time as Management determines

Location & Hours

This role is based in San José, CA. Work is primarily in person at OSJ’s scene shop, costume shop, rehearsal studio, and the California Theatre. Evening and weekend availability is required during production periods.

Opera San José is an equal opportunity employer. It is our strong belief that equal opportunity for all employees is central to the continuing success of our organization. We will not discriminate against an employee or applicant for employment because of race, religion, gender, national origin, ethnicity, age, physical disabilities, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, or veteran status in hiring, promoting, training, benefits, recommendations, rate of pay or other forms of compensation. Opportunity is provided to all employees based on qualifications and job requirements.

To Apply

To Apply: Please submit your resume and cover letter outlining your interest at www.operasj.org/careers