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Seasonal Production Staff Positions

2026 Seasonal Production Positions

Our Production Staff is comprised of experienced designers, technicians and craftspeople from regional theatres, opera companies and universities from around the world.

Staff compensation varies depending on the responsibilities of the position and the experience of the applicant.

Staff housing is arranged by the Opera and while a housing deduction is deducted weekly from your base pay, Santa Fe Opera subsidizes the remainder of the cost of housing. All staff receive financial assistance towards the cost of travel to and from Santa Fe, NM.

Having a vehicle is a plus, but not a requirement for application. Carpooling is encouraged, and drivers are compensated for carpooling colleagues to and from the opera.

The Santa Fe Opera festival season is very demanding, but also incredibly rewarding.

Due to the outdoor setting of our venue, technical rehearsals must begin after sunset and therefore extend late into the night/early morning hours, with changeovers commencing after technical rehearsals.

Applicants must submit the online application (which includes a request for a link to a website, digital portfolio or pdf of images of your work) and a current resume. Applicants may apply for up to two departments in order of preference.

Details of each position are listed in the job postings. Questions should be emailed to prodjobs@santafeopera.org.

Please note: All of the positions in the Stage Management Department have been filled for the 2026 Season.

If you are looking for information about our Technical Apprentice Program, please visit the following page:

Technical Apprentice Application Information

Audio & Video Department

Introduction

The Audio and Video Department Staff set-up, operate, maintain and repair equipment used to support the rehearsals and production of a 5-show repertory festival. Familiarity with equipment such as wired/wireless microphones, speakers, digital mixers, intercom systems, video cameras, video monitors, recording equipment, computers & networking, terminating wires and cables is required. Earliest start date is May 11,2026.

Positions available Assistant Audio/Video Director, Electronic Libretto Systems Administrator, Audio/Video Engineer and FOH Mixer, Audio/Video and ELS Technician (2)

Audio/Video Engineer and FOH Mixer

The Audio/Video Engineer and FOH Mixer works under the supervision of the Audio/Video Director and the Assistant Audio/Video Director. This position is responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of a variety of electronic equipment around the Opera grounds as well as front-of-house mixing live body mics on this season’s production of The Magic Flute. A/V systems maintained include, but are not limited to: Clear-Com Freespeak systems, analog and digital audio systems including Yamaha DM7 soundboards, analog and digital video systems, audio fold back on and off stage, FOH PA systems, campus-wide 70V PA system, QLab, wireless microphones, Dante virtual routing. The A/V Engineer will also lead cable maintenance and repair, which involves skills such as soldering and cable termination. The A/V Engineer will also ensure the correct operation of the Opera’s audio/video archival system as well as being responsible for documenting system changes in Excel and in departmental plots/drafting. Applicants should have a BA in Theatre Production or comparable 2-4 years of professional experience or training. Applicant should have experience with: plot drafting (Vectorworks or AutoCAD), soldering, supervising crews, audio/video editing, carpentry, QLab, Clear-Com, analog/digital audio consoles, and a willingness and ability to work within a rigorous time schedule with a variety of personalities and skill levels. The Audio Engineer position is a salaried exempt staff position with the rate of $1350.00 per week.

Costume Department

Introduction

The Santa Fe Opera Costume Department is a dynamic team of skilled professionals and apprentices dedicated to fostering collaboration, creativity, and excellence. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment where individuals can thrive while meeting the physical and mental challenges of a rigorous festival schedule. Through skill, flexibility, and innovation, we produce world-class costume designs while providing hands-on training for the next generation of costume professionals.

6 to 14 weeks of costume construction, costume crafts, millinery, wardrobe, or administration. Start dates vary, most beginning in mid-May with a few positions beginning in mid-April. Average number of hours worked weekly varies by position and throughout the season, ranging from 40 to 65 hours/week.

Seasonal Staff (44) anticipated to consist of: 5 Draper/Tailors, 10 First Hands, 10 Staff Stitchers, 1 Millinery Head, 2 Millinery Assistants, 1 Crafts Head, 2 Crafts Assistants, 1 Paint/Dye Head, 2 Paint/Dye Assistants, 5 Costume Design Assistants, 1 Costume Shopper, 1 Wardrobe Supervisor, 2 Wardrobe Assistants, 2 Lead Dressers. Staffing varies by the needs of the season and sometimes includes Journeyperson roles (entry level) or Associates (upper mid-level).

First Hand

The First Hand assists the Draper/Tailor in leading their team in the construction and alteration of new and existing costumes for a 5-show repertory festival. Responsibilities include: fabric cutting under the guidance of the Draper/Tailor; supervising Stitchers, Apprentices, and Volunteers in the construction and alterations of assigned costumes; measuring artists and assisting in fittings; ensuring accuracy in labeling, alterations, and finishing work; and attending dress rehearsals as needed. Applicants should have training in costume technology or comparable professional experience with a minimum of 2 years experience at the professional or academic level. The First Hand is a mid-level staff position with a 10-14-week engagement starting in mid-May (two positions starting mid-April) with an hourly rate of $20.27 per hour with overtime potential after the 40th hour.

Electrics & Lighting Department

Introduction

10 weeks of hang, trial focus, practical construction, and technical and dress rehearsals. 4 weeks of daily repertory focus and running shows. Start dates vary from May 18, 2026.

Positions Available: Staff (11) – 3 Lighting Supervisors, 1 Head Electrician, 1 Assistant Head Electrician, 2 Staff Electricians, 2 Lighting Programmer, 1 Projections Technician.

All positions have been filled.

Projection Technician

The Projection Technician is responsible for the installation, maintenance of all hardware and software required for projections and all onstage media production in a theatrical setting during the load-in and tech process. The daily line-up and calibration of the video system is the Video Technician’s responsibility under the guidance of the Video Programmer. They are responsible for all projection changeover between productions. They are also responsible for maintaining the integrity of the design through the show run. Other responsibilities could include assisting the electrics shop with large projects and supporting A/V with media recordings. Applicant should be a Graduate or Senior pursuing a BA in Theatre Production or comparable professional experience or training. Professional experience with Disguise media servers, networking, projector & system maintenance. Experience with 3D modeling and UV unwrapping for Disguise would be helpful for this position but not required. The Projection Technician is a mid-level staff position with an hourly rate of $20.27 per hour with overtime potential after the 40th hour.

Production & Music Services

Introduction

14 weeks of supporting performances, onstage rehearsals, orchestra rehearsals and general notes for 5-show repertory festival. This position overlaps with several areas of production, i.e.: stage, props, and scenic art. Excellent position for someone interested in Arts Management or Theatre Production Management. Heavy lifting and physical stamina required.

All positions have been filled.

Properties Department

Introduction

12 to 16 weeks in construction and finishing of furniture, stage dressing and prop elements for 5-show repertory festival. Run Staff and Apprentices support technical and dress rehearsals and repertory performances. Earliest start date for Properties is February 10, 2026 (most start May 11, 2026).

All positions have been filled.

Prop Lead Crafts Artisan

The Prop Lead Crafts Artisan is a staff position working with a team of Staff and Apprentice Technicians and is responsible for the creation of new stage props and the refurbishment of existing stage props for a 5-show repertory festival. The Prop Lead Crafts Artisan must be prepared to fulfill the following responsibilities throughout the season: coordinating and facilitating needs and labor throughout the craft shop for all 5 shows, maintaining a prop build schedule for the crafting of stage props from designers’ drawings, and notes and research along with research and information from the Properties Director. These props will include hand props, soft goods (upholstery), and stage dressing. Applicant must efficiently manage a schedule for a timely delivery of props to rehearsals, techs and assigned shows; monitor safety and morale; prepare materials ordering lists; mentor staff and apprentices in props crafting, maintenance of equipment and tools; and excellence of product. Applicants must have a wide range of crafting skills which should include some, if not all, of the following: hand stitching; soft goods construction and upholstery; use of industrial sewing and over-lock machines; mold making and casting; floral arranging; paper goods- graphics and construction; woodworking; and a willingness and the ability to work rigorous hours. The applicant should have minimum of a BA in production / technology, or comparable professional experience with a minimum of (3) years in prop construction at the professional or academic level. The Props Lead Crafts Artisan is a mid-level and above staff position with hourly rates starting at $24.00 depending on experience, with overtime potential after the 40th hour.

Prop Crafts Artisan(s)

The Prop Crafts Artisans are staff positions working with a team of Staff and Apprentice Technicians and is responsible for the production of new stage props and the refurbishment of existing stage props for a 5-show repertory festival. The Props Crafts Artisan must be prepared to fulfill the following responsibilities throughout the festival; construct stage props from designers’ drawings and research along with research and information from the Properties Director. Applicant must efficiently manage a schedule for a timely delivery of props to rehearsals, techs, dresses and performances. They support all 5 shows while acting as a lead for one show; monitor safety and morale; mentor apprentices in prop construction and maintenance; and maintain excellence of product. Applicants must have a wide range of crafting skills which should include some, if not all, of the following; hand stitching; soft good construction and upholstery; use of industrial sewing and over-lock machines; mold making and casting; floral arranging; paper goods graphics and construction; woodworking; and a willingness and the ability to work rigorous hours. The applicant should have a minimum of a BA in production / technology or comparable professional experience with a minimum of (3) years in prop construction at the professional or academic level. The Props Crafts Artisan is a mid-level and above staff position with hourly rates starting at $20.00 with overtime potential after the 40th hour.

Prop Journeyperson Crafts Artisan

The Prop Journeyperson Crafts Artisan works with a team of Staff and Apprentice Technicians and is responsible for the production of new stage props and the refurbishment of existing stage props for a 5-show repertory festival. The Prop Journeyperson Crafts Artisan must be prepared to fulfill the following responsibilities throughout the season; construct stage props from designer’s drawings and research along with research and information from the Properties Director. Applicant must efficiently manage a schedule for a timely delivery of props to rehearsals, techs, dresses and performances. They support all 5 productions while acting as a lead for one production with the assistance of the Props Lead Crafts Artisan. They monitor safety and morale; mentor apprentices in prop construction and maintenance; and maintain excellence of product. Applicants must have a wide range of crafting skills which should include some of the following: hand and industrial machine stitching; soft good construction and upholstery; mold making and casting; floral arranging; paper goods- graphics and construction; woodworking; and a willingness and the ability to work rigorous hours. The applicant should have a minimum of a BA in production / technology is required or comparable professional experience with a minimum of (1) year in prop construction at the professional or academic level. The Prop Journeyperson Crafts Artisan position is an entry-level staff position with an hourly rate of $16.97 with overtime potential after the 40th hour.

Prop Carpenters

The Prop Carpenters work with a team of Staff and Apprentice Technicians and are responsible for the production of new stage props and the refurbishment of existing stage props for a 5-show repertory festival.  Applicant must be prepared to fulfill the following responsibilities throughout the season; construct furniture and stage props from designer’s drawings and research along with research and information from the Properties Director. These props will include furniture as well fabricated prop pieces and mounting/rigging of props for stage and rehearsal. Applicant must efficiently manage a schedule for a timely delivery of props to rehearsals, techs and assigned productions; monitor safety and morale; prepare materials ordering lists; mentor apprentices in prop carpentry and furniture construction, welding, maintenance of tools and props; and excellence of product. Applicants must have a wide range of carpentry and welding skills which should include most, if not all, of the following: furniture construction and joinery; MIG welding; scenic carpentry; basic cabinetry construction; woodturning; use of stationary and portable power tools; and a willingness and the ability to work rigorous hours. The applicant should have a BA in production / technology, or comparable professional experience with a minimum of 3 years in prop carpentry construction at the professional or academic level. The Prop Carpenter position is a mid-level and above staff position with hourly rates starting at $20.00 per hour depending on experience, with overtime potential after the 40th hour.

Prop Journeyperson Carpenter

The Prop Journeyperson Carpenter works with a team of Staff and Apprentice Technicians and is responsible for the production of new stage props and the refurbishment of existing stage props for a 5-show repertory festival. Applicant must be prepared to fulfill the following responsibilities throughout the festival; construct furniture and stage props from designer’s drawings and research along with research and information from the Properties Director. These props will include furniture as well fabricated prop pieces and mounting/rigging of props for stage and rehearsal. Applicant must efficiently manage a schedule for a timely delivery of props to rehearsals, techs and assigned productions; monitor safety and morale; prepare materials ordering lists; mentor apprentices in prop carpentry and furniture construction, welding, maintenance of tools and props; and maintain excellence of product. Applicants must have a range of carpentry and welding skills which should include some, if not all, of the following: furniture construction and joinery; basic welding; scenic carpentry; woodworking and turning; and use of stationary and portable power tools; and a willingness and the ability to work rigorous hours. The applicant should have a BA in production / technology, or comparable professional experience with a minimum of (1) year in prop carpentry construction at the professional or academic level. Start date varies beginning in May. The Prop Journeyperson Carpenter position is an entry-level staff position with a rate of $16.97 per hour with overtime potential after the 40th hour.

Prop Paint Charge

The Prop Paint Charge is a position that works with the Prop Staff Painter and (1) Apprentice Technician or (1) Journeyperson and is responsible for the painting of new stage props and the refurbishment of existing stage props for a 5-show repertory festival. Applicant must be prepared to fulfill the following responsibilities throughout the festival with the Prop Staff Painter; maintain a prop paint schedule and materials ordering list for the painting of furniture and stage props from designer’s drawings, notes and research along with research and information from the Properties Director. These props will include furniture, hand props, soft goods, and stage dressing. Applicant must efficiently manage a schedule for a timely delivery of props to rehearsals, techs and assigned productions; monitor safety and morale; prepare materials ordering lists; mentor staff and apprentices in prop painting, maintenance of paint equipment and tools; and maintain excellence of product. Applicants must have a wide range of painting skills which should include some if not all of the following: scenic and faux-finish painting; staining; aging; sealing and finishing of props; color mixing and matching; and signage/ graphic artwork; and a willingness and the ability to work rigorous hours. The applicant should have a BA in production / technology, or comparable professional experience with a minimum of 3 years of Prop / Scenic Painting / at the professional or academic level. The Prop Paint Charge position is an upper level staff position with an hourly rate starting at $22.00 per hour depending on experience, with overtime potential after the 40th hour.

Prop Staff Painter

The Prop Staff Painter works with the Prop Paint Charge and one (1) Apprentice Technician or one (1) Journeyperson and is responsible for the painting of new stage props and the refurbishment of existing stage props for a 5-show repertory festival. Applicant must be prepared to fulfill the following responsibilities throughout the season with the Prop Paint Charge; maintain a prop paint schedule and materials ordering list for the painting of furniture and stage props from designer’s drawings, notes and research along with research and information from the Properties Director. These props will include furniture, hand props, soft goods, and stage dressing. Applicant must efficiently manage a schedule for a timely delivery of props to rehearsals, techs and assigned productions; monitor safety and morale; prepare materials ordering lists; mentor staff and apprentices in prop painting, maintenance of paint equipment and tools; and maintain excellence of product. Applicants must have a wide range of painting skills which should include some if not all of the following: scenic and faux-finish painting; staining; aging; sealing and finishing of props; color mixing and matching; signage/ graphic artwork; and a willingness and the ability to work rigorous hours. The applicant should have a BA in production / technology or comparable professional experience with minimum of (2) years of Prop / Scenic Painting at the professional or academic level. The Prop Staff Painter position is a mid-level and above staff position with an hourly rate starting at $20.00 depending on experience, with overtime potential after the 40th hour.

Prop Journeyperson Painter

The Prop Journeyperson Painter is position that works with the Prop Paint Charge and Staff Painter and is responsible for the painting of new stage props and the refurbishment of existing stage props for a 5-show repertory festival. The Prop Journeyperson Painter must be prepared to fulfill the following responsibilities throughout the festival with the Prop Paint Staff; maintain a prop paint schedule and materials ordering list for the painting of furniture and stage props from designer’s drawings, notes and research along with research and information from the Properties Director. These props will include furniture, hand props, soft goods, and stage dressing. Applicant must efficiently manage a schedule for a timely delivery of props to rehearsals, techs and assigned productions; monitor safety and morale; prepare materials ordering lists; mentor staff and apprentices in prop painting, maintenance of paint equipment and tools; and maintain excellence of product. Applicants must have a wide range of painting skills, which should include some if not all of the following: scenic and faux-finish painting; staining; aging; sealing and finishing of props; color mixing and matching; signage/ graphic artwork; and a willingness and the ability to work rigorous hours. Applicant must be in process or finished with a BA in art or production / technology, or comparable professional experience with a minimum of (1) year of Prop / Scenic Painting at the professional or academic level. The Prop Journeyperson Painter position is an entry-level staff position with an hourly rate of $16.97, with overtime potential after the 40th hour.

Prop Buyer/Shopper

The Prop Buyer/Shopper is responsible for purchasing and procuring of stage properties and/or related materials for the construction and fabrication of stage properties for a 5-show repertory festival. They must be able to handle a large petty cash draw and a company credit card which will require frequent and timely balancing of receipts and cash, and submitting necessary paperwork for reimbursement. Any shortages or loss in petty cash are the responsibility of Prop Buyer/Shopper to rectify. The applicant should have experience in money and receipt handling; bookkeeping organization and/or retail sales; theatrical production and/or crafting; and must be licensed to operate a full-size pick-up truck. Knowledge of decorative arts, style and fabrics are a plus. The Properties Director and the Properties Administrator direct and assist the Prop Buyer/Shopper with research, schedule, priority setting, organization and bookkeeping. The Applicant should possess a passion and patience for shopping for the stage. This position also assists in day to day administrative tasks, party planning and setup, rideshare shuttling, and working in the craft shop as needed. The Prop Buyer/Shopper position is a mid-level and above staff position with an hourly rate starting at $18.00 depending on experience, with overtime potential after the 40th hour.

Prop Run Crew Chief(s)

The Prop Run Crew Chiefs work with a team of Staff and Apprentice Technicians and are responsible for the accurate and safe running of rehearsals and performances as they pertain to the prop department. Additional responsibilities include: cataloging and recording of notes; production paperwork and narratives for the running of stage properties; and mentoring of run crew prop apprentices in a 5-show repertory festival. The Run Crew Chief must also be prepared to make crew show assignments and schedules; accurately spike/mark on stage and in rehearsal locations the location of props from drawings and ground plans; record notes and changes; and along with Stage Management, produce a production narrative and mini-ground plan. Applicant must efficiently manage a schedule for a timely delivery of props to rehearsals, techs and assigned productions; monitor safety and morale; mentor apprentices in prop performance, note taking and rehearsal running; maintain excellence of product; catalog performance props; and support assigned rehearsals and performances. Applicants must have a wide range of skills which should include some, if not all, of the following: Stage Management skills and experience; tech and rehearsal experience; crew leadership; computer skills; a valid driver’s license and the willingness to drive a step van or truck; and a willingness and the ability to work rigorous hours. A minimum of a BA in production/technology is preferred, or comparable professional experience with a minimum of (2) years in a SM / ASM and/or crew chief position at the professional or academic level. The Prop Run Crew Chief position is a mid-level and above staff position with hourly rate starting at $19.00 depending on experience, with overtime potential after the 40th hour.

Properties Run Crew Administrator

The Properties Run Crew Administrator works with the Run Crew Chiefs, Properties Director, Assistant Properties Director, and the Properties Administrative Assistant and is responsible for assisting and supporting the Props Run Crew for a five (5) production repertory season. Applicants must be prepared to fulfill the following responsibilities, which include but are not limited to: scheduling, entering and tracking labor hours, creation of forms and contact sheets, and cleaning and maintenance of the office areas, supplies and equipment. Daily responsibilities include assisting with transporting properties to appropriate halls, and supporting both day and evening rehearsals and performances as needed. The Properties Run Crew Administrator also assists with the creation, organization, and updating of archival files including: entering properties inventory data on Sherlock, photography of properties, generating packing manifests, and assists in the striking, tagging, and packing of properties for storage and rental. The applicant should be a team-oriented worker who can also work independently and take initiative within the props run crew. They should maintain a professional, practical, and nurturing attitude with vendors, volunteers, community members and other company members and a willingness and ability to work rigorous hours. Minimum BA in Production or comparable professional experience with a minimum of 1 years in a clerical or stage-management position at the professional or academic level. The Properties Run Crew Administrator is an entry-level and above staff position with an hourly rate of $16.97, with overtime potential after the 40th hour.

Safety Department

Introduction

Key duties include supporting the existing safety program and COVID safety protocols; maintaining first aid kits; accident and injury reporting and follow up; on-call support for injuries and transportation for workers comp care; maintaining safety equipment inventory; planning and execution of crew meals during late-night technical rehearsals; monitoring known hazards, including wildfire smoke; and supporting safety training/education onsite. Previous training/experience in first aid and CPR a plus. Earliest start date is the beginning of May 2026.

The Safety Coordinator position is a salaried exempt position with the rate $1240.00 per week for 16 weeks. The Assistant Safety Coordinator position is a 14-week mid-level staff position with hourly rate of $20.00 per hour with overtime potential after the 40th hour.

Safety Coordinator

FUNCTION: Act as primary safety contact for the Artistic and Production Departments, and support safety throughout The Santa Fe Opera campus.

RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Act as primary contact for all work-related injuries that occur during the SFO production season, including shared oversight of the Safety cell phone during the season, which is monitored 24/7.
2. Work with the Director of Safety in submitting accident reports and managing workers’ compensation insurance, including maintaining paper and digital copies of all incident reports, workers compensation files, and related paperwork such as confidential medical records.
3. Transport injured employees to and from Urgent Care and the ER.
4. Monitor wildfire smoke and weather, and update additional parties as necessary.
5. Maintain first aid kits, first aid supplies, backstage oxygen tanks, and related items by performing weekly safety checks.
6. Maintain Personal Protective Equipment inventories, distribute PPE, and lead trainings alongside the Director of Safety.
7. Assist the Director of Safety in the setup and implementation of Production Safety Day lectures, trainings, and tours.
8. Plan, budget, and execute crew meals for 15 late night technical rehearsals (aka Grey Lady meals) during the first half of the season.
9. Update and maintain all Safety Data Sheets (SDS’s) required within the production department.
10. Manage containment and removal of waste, hazardous waste, and biohazard waste materials.
11. Supervise and direct the Assistant Safety Coordinator.
12. Support enforcement of current COVID-19 and other health-related safety practices, and report concerns to the Director of Safety.
13. Ensure employees follow safety rules and take immediate action to correct unsafe conditions, reporting those that cannot be corrected to the Director of Safety.
14. Follow the policies and procedures of The Santa Fe Opera as noted in the SFO personnel and other manuals.
15. Accept responsibility for other appropriate projects relating to The Santa Fe Opera.
16. Promote a culture of safety and wellness throughout the organization.

SKILLS AND TRAINING
1. Minimum BA in Theatre or comparable professional experience. Previous training in theatre production preferred.
2. Training and understanding of safe practices for the theatre environment required.
3. Current or previous certification in CPR/First Aid/AED preferred.
4. Willingness and ability to work within a rigorous time schedule with a variety of personalities and skill levels.
5. Must have valid US driver’s license and a substantially clear driving record.

POSSIBLE EQUIPMENT
The employee must be prepared to use equipment including, but not limited to: computer, hand and portable power tools, ladders, personnel lifts, stage rigging, and other typical theatrical equipment.

ENVIRONMENT
The Santa Fe Opera is at an altitude of 7,000 feet. The environment of the work place includes indoor and outdoor conditions that may be dusty or smoky. The presence of particles or fumes and the use of materials that produce particles and fumes may require the use of dust masks or respirator. Outdoor conditions include wide temperature variations, exposure to sun, rain, wind, and other weather conditions.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
1. May be required to use a respirator in accordance with OSHA’s Respiratory Protection Standard.
2. Must be able to lift and carry objects up to 30 lbs. frequently, up to 50 lbs. occasionally and over 50 lbs. with a two-person lift.
3. Must be able to climb and work from ladders, personnel lifts and raised platforms and surfaces.
4. Must have vision and dexterity to safely operate stationary and portable power tools, hand tools, stage rigging and equipment, and to safely work and move about backstage in limited lighting during rehearsals and performances.

REPORTS TO
Director of Safety.

*This is an exempt position*

Assistant Safety Coordinator

FUNCTION: Assist the Safety Coordinator as the primary contact(s) for Artistic and Production Departments, and support safety throughout The Santa Fe Opera campus.

RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Assist in being the primary contact for all work-related injuries that occur during the SFO production season, including shared oversight of the Safety cell phone during the season, which is monitored 24/7.
2. Along with the Safety Coordinator, work with the Director of Safety in submitting accident reports and managing workers’ compensation insurance, including maintaining paper and digital copies of all incident reports, workers compensation files and related paperwork such as confidential medical records.
3. Transport injured employees to and from Urgent Care and the ER.
4. Monitor wildfire smoke and weather, and update additional parties as necessary.
5. Assist in maintaining first aid kits, first aid supplies, backstage oxygen tanks, and related items by performing weekly safety checks.
6. Assist in maintaining Personal Protective Equipment inventories.
7. Assist the Director of Safety in the setup and implementation of Production Safety Day lectures, trainings, and tours.
8. Assist in planning and execution of crew meals for 15 late night technical rehearsals (aka Grey Lady meals) during the first half of the season.
9. Update and maintain all Safety Data Sheets (SDS’s) required within the production department.
10. Assist in handling the containment and removal of waste, hazardous waste and biohazard waste materials.
11. Support enforcement of current COVID-19 and other health-related safety practices, and report concerns to your supervisor and/or the Director Safety.
12. Ensure employees follow safety rules and take immediate action to correct unsafe conditions, reporting those that cannot be corrected to the Director of Safety.
13. Follow the policies and procedures of The Santa Fe Opera as noted in the SFO personnel and other manuals.
14. Accept responsibility for other appropriate projects relating to The Santa Fe Opera.
15. Promote a culture of safety and wellness throughout the organization.

SKILLS AND TRAINING
1. Previous training and understanding of safe practices for the theatre environment preferred.
2. Current or previous certification in CPR/First Aid/AED preferred.
3. Willingness and ability to work within a rigorous time schedule with a variety of personalities and skill levels.
4. Must have valid US driver’s license and a substantially clear driving record.

POSSIBLE EQUIPMENT
The employee must be prepared to use equipment including, but not limited to: computer, hand and portable power tools, ladders, personnel lifts, stage rigging and other typical theatrical equipment.

ENVIRONMENT
The Santa Fe Opera is at an altitude of 7000 feet. The environment of the work place includes indoor and outdoor conditions that may be dusty or smoky. The presence of particles or fumes and the use of materials that produce particles and fumes may require the use of dust masks or respirator. Outdoor conditions include wide temperature variations, exposure to sun, rain, wind and other weather conditions.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
1. May be required to use a respirator in accordance with OSHA’s Respiratory Protection Standard.
2. Must be able to lift and carry objects up to 30 lbs. frequently, up to 50 lbs. occasionally and over 50 lbs. with a two-person lift
3. Must be able to climb and work from ladders, personnel lifts and raised platforms and surfaces.
4. Must have vision and dexterity to safely operate stationary and portable power tools, hand tools, stage rigging and equipment, and to safely work and move about backstage in limited lighting during rehearsals and performances.

REPORTS TO
Safety Coordinator, under the supervision of the Director of Safety.

*This is a non-exempt position*

Scenic Art Department

Introduction

Up to 24 weeks of scenic painting, sculpture, texture and other finish work for a 5-show repertory opera festival. Earliest start date for Scenic Painters is February 9, 2026. Applicants must have at least 3 years of professional experience and must submit a portfolio to be considered.

All positions have been filled.

Scenic Painter

The Scenic Painter responsibilities include the painting and finishing of all scenic elements, including covering, priming, texture work, sculpting and applying scenic details. Applicants should have the ability to mix and match colors, knowledge of scenic art materials, tools and techniques, as well as basic craft skills. Earliest start date is February 9, 2026. Scenic Staff Painter positions vary from entry level to higher level painters. Rates start at $21.50 per hour depending on experience, with overtime potential after the 40th hour.

Stage Department

Introduction

15 weeks of repertory scenic changes, show run crew, work notes, technical and dress rehearsals for 5-show repertory festival. Heavy lifting and physical stamina required.

All positions have been filled.

Wigs & Makeup Department

Introduction

8 weeks of construction of new wigs and accessories, and dressing of existing pieces for 5-show repertory festival. 4 weeks of wig maintenance and makeup for repertory performances as well as repair on existing pieces to maintain working stock for use. Earliest start date is June 1, 2026. The Wig & Makeup Staff position is a mid-level and above staff position with hourly rate of $23.64, with overtime potential.

All positions have been filled.

 

 

Apply Now

The Production Department Application process for the 2026 Season is now available.

The deadline for applications is March 14, 2026.

Please follow the instructions below:

  1. Submit an Application Form using the link below.
  2. Email a copy of your current resume to prodjobs@santafeopera.org  (Please label your attachment with your name)

If you have any questions, you may email prodjobs@santafeopera.org

Application Form – Apply Now

If applying for Apprentice position, please forward the RECOMMENDATION FORM to all 3 of the references you have listed. Here is the link to that form: https://www.santafeopera.org/production-department-recommendation-form/