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

Major Gifts Officer

Opera San José is an opera company located in the heart of Silicon Valley. Maintaining a resident company of artists, OSJ presents four mainstage productions annually in San Jose’s historic California Theatre, while regularly broadcasting fully-produced productions from its state-of-the-art Heiman Digital Media Studio. Entering its 40th season, OSJ specializes in role debuts, serving as an artistic incubator for established and emerging artists alike, producing world-class operatic performances for diverse audiences throughout the Bay Area and around the globe.

Major Gifts Officer

Status: Regular Full-Time / Exempt

Reports to: Director of Development

PURPOSE:

Opera San José seeks an experienced, skilled and focused fundraising professional to join our development team and manage major gifts outreach and donor-centric portfolios. Working closely with and reporting to, the Director of Development, this role’s responsibilities include developing strategies to help significantly expand the organization’s fund-raising activities through the cultivation and solicitation of major gifts and the management and curation of donor benefits and stewardship.

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

• Develop and implement a major gifts strategy in collaboration with the Director of Development.
• Plan and lead major donor cultivation, appreciation and solicitation events & manage the Encore Donor Lounge throughout each season.
• Initiate and cultivate one-to-one relationships with a portfolio of 250 supporters (current donors and acquisition) to upgrade overall giving levels.
• Design highly customized donor engagement plans for a portfolio of supporters in collaboration with other Development team members and enter and monitor them in Tessitura.
• Annually increase the number of individual donors giving at major gift levels, working on pipeline cultivation and donor cycle development.
• Utilize CRM (Tessitura) and prospect tools (Windfall) to track activities and stages of the donor cycle (Identification, Research, Cultivation, Solicitation, Stewardship) for each donor in the Major Gifts Program (including Board Member portfolios) and report results to leadership on a monthly basis. Document call/meeting notes and other data routinely.
• Work with the Board of Directors to identify opportunities for them to cultivate, steward, and solicit donors in their networks-support their philanthropic development.
• Provide support to the General Director & CEO & Director of Development in solicitation and stewardship efforts and manage donor benefits.
• Collaborate with the Patron Operations Manager to ensure the ongoing maintenance of the fundraising database.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and/or Experience

• 4+ years of development experience, including gift cultivation and solicitation.
• Experience making asks and closing requests for funds with donors.

Skills

• Understanding of and commitment to professional fundraising ethical standards.
• Exceptional relationship-building skills.
• Strategic thinking, planning, and timely execution skills, including documenting work in moves management tools.
• Strong written and verbal skills with the ability to communicate clearly, calmly, and efficiently with company members, donors and patrons, guest artists, musicians, and trustees.

• Excellent project management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects independently and simultaneously in a busy environment. Maintain strong judgement, discretion and poise in sometimes demanding situations.

• Ability to work some evenings and weekend hours and to travel around the Bay Area as needed.

• Passion for and knowledge of the performing arts.

• Ability to analyze and synthesize complex data.

• Working knowledge of Word, Excel, Google Suite, Tessitura, Windfall and Greater Giving a plus.

• Demonstrated track record of handling a variety of constituencies and multiple priorities simultaneously.

• Contribute to the overall success of the organization by working together to achieve the mission. Develop and maintain a sensitivity to employee diversity, and demonstrate cultural competence in the workplace.

WORK LOCATION & SCHEDULE

This position has the flexibility to work a hybrid schedule with work being done both remotely and on-site at Opera San José’s offices at 2149 Paragon Drive, San Jose, CA, and on performance days, at the California Theatre Box Office at 345 S 1st Street, San Jose CA. There are 20 performances annually, which are evenings or weekend matinees. Travel around the Bay Area for additional donor events will also be expected. The ideal candidate for this role must live or be willing to live in the San Jose Bay Area.

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.

COMPENSATION

This position is classified as full-time exempt with a yearly salary range of $90,000.00 to $105,000.00 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

MENTAL DEMANDS

Duties require planning, organizing, and performing a variety of duties applying a wide range of procedures and rules. Duties require attention to detail, high degree of accuracy, reliability, timeliness, alertness, and use of judgment. Also requires writing ability, creativity, and concentration. Access to and use of confidential data where discretion/sensitivity is of utmost importance. Mature judgment and confidence.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Frequently required to walk, sit, talk, and hear. Occasionally required to stand, reach, stoop, and handle and/or lift and up to 25 pounds. Must be able to check reports for completion and accuracy and to retrieve and transmit information. Use of general office

environment equipment.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions. Opera San Jose offers a variety of benefits including medical insurance, dental and vision plans, life insurance, retirement plan, flex benefit plan, paid holidays, and vacation.

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive, and employee will perform other reasonably required job duties as assigned by immediate supervisor or other management as required. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities.

This job description does not constitute written or implied contract of employment. Opera San Jose is an at-will employer. As such, your employment is for no specific period of a time and may be terminated at will by either party with or without a reason or advance notice.

To Apply

Interested applicants should reply to this listing or submit a resume and cover letter to dandra@humanresourceplus.com. Please include “Major Gift Officer” in the subject line of your email.