JOB OPPORTUNITIES
Founded in 1965, San Diego Opera is a highly regarded member of the international opera community and an invaluable cultural resource to the San Diego region. The mission of San Diego Opera is to deliver exceptional performances and exciting, accessible programs to diverse audiences, focusing on community partnerships and the transformative and expressive power of the human voice. The company’s vision is to be recognized globally as a leading example of adaptability, innovation, and sustainability, promoting diversity on stage, in our repertoire, and in our staff and leadership, with a commitment to world-class and emerging talent, and innovative use of technology. San Diego Opera is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
EVENTS AND ENGAGEMENT MANAGER – Posted 6/26/25
Reporting to the Director of Philanthropy, the Events and Engagement Manager works with Opera staff, Board of Directors, and volunteers to create and implement events for donors, subscribers, and the general public; identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward select corporate, in-kind, and individual prospects and donors; and manage volunteers.
We seek someone who wishes to grow as a fundraiser, serve a renowned and beloved cultural institution, and who will value those who cherish it through patron engagement and events. The person in this role develops, curates, and implements sophisticated, elevated, and imaginative events and gatherings that create community and center San Diego Opera while creating a welcoming, inclusive, and fun atmosphere for all while engaging with donors of all levels.
A minimum of two years’ experience managing events for a nonprofit organization or equivalent experience in hotel or restaurant hospitality with some experience at a nonprofit organization. Able to work collaboratively across departments and manage multiple projects simultaneously. Access to transportation for off-site events, shopping, and meetings. Evening and weekend work required. Full-time position with benefits. Salary range $70,000 – 75,000.
To apply, please submit cover letter and resume to: Llewellyn Crain, Director of Philanthropy Officer (she/her), at jobs@sdopera.org. No phone calls, please.
PATRON SERVICES MANAGER – Posted 5/15/25
Summary
The Patron Services Manager is a key customer-facing role, delivering outstanding service to existing and potential patrons and donors throughout their ticketing journey. The position engages with internal and external stakeholders, ticket buyers, donors and board members — demonstrating a strong commitment to cultivating a deeper connection between audience members and the Opera. Reporting to the Director of Marketing and Communications, the role oversees the ticket office, manages the Tessitura CRM ticketing system, and collaborates with the Philanthropy and Finance teams on reporting and reconciliation. It is an in-office position that works with an in-office Patron Services staff. This is a full-time, salaried, exempt position with a full benefits package. Salary range: $73,000 – $78,000. Applications from candidates of all backgrounds are welcome.
To Apply:
Please email a cover letter and resume to Ed Hofmeister, Director of Marketing and Communications at ed.hofmeister@sdopera.org, with the words “Patron Services Manager” in the subject line. No calls please.
PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Job Opening – Posted 5/6/25
San Diego Opera seeks a Production Assistant to work with the stage management teams for our 2025/2026 season. Dates of employment are as follows.
Pagliacci | Wednesday, October 1, 2025 – Wednesday, November 5, 2025 (5 weeks) |
The Barber of Seville & Carmen | Monday, January 19, 2026 – Wednesday, April 1, 2026 (10.5 weeks) |
A candidate with the following skills – music reading, second language, Microsoft office, and stage management experience – will be in an ideal position for consideration. If you have experience in other related areas, we encourage you to apply as well, especially if you have a desire to learn more about working in opera.
All candidates must be reliable, have a willingness to learn, a strong work ethic, and the capability to identify tasks and look ahead. You will be an integral member of a team and will need to be flexible and adapt as priorities and deadlines change. Being a contributing team member is more important than previous opera or stage management experience.
Following this experience, you will have – an understanding of how a rehearsal room is run, the process for the artists, and contacts for future potential work in the industry.
This position is hourly/non-exempt $17.25 – $19.00 per hour based on experience. Overtime hours (at the overtime rate) are anticipated each week. The work week is Monday through Saturday – Sunday being a typical day off – with some exceptions. This is a local position – no housing nor distance transportation is provided. Parking is included. Please send your resume and references to Associate Director of Production, Grace Herzog at Grace.Herzog@sdopera.org.