Special Events Intern

Job Title: Special Events Intern
Reports to: Special Events Manager
Dates: May 27 through August 27 – Summer 2026; flexible based on academic schedule
Classification: Non-exempt
$15.00 per hour
Job Description (PDF)

Position Overview

The Special Events Intern will be an integral member of the Development Department, actively contributing to the planning, strategy, and execution of special events throughout the summer season. Reporting directly to the Director of Special Events, the intern will participate in team discussions and gain hands-on experience supporting a wide range of donor, board, and patron engagement events.

Events include the Opening Weekend Celebration, Opening Night Dinners, the Summer Gala, Cast and Company Recognition Events, and other donor- and board-related gatherings. Through this role, the intern will develop practical skills in event planning and production, donor relations, and the use of donor database, within a collaborative, fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

The Special Events Intern will serve as a key team member in the planning and implementation of the summer season’s special events. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Assisting with the design and dissemination of event invitations and related materials
• Tracking guest responses and maintaining accurate records in Tessitura and Google Docs
• Supporting event logistics, including set-up, on-site coordination, and take-down
• Assisting with seating plans and guest management
• Conducting guest outreach via phone and email for confirmations, follow-ups, and courtesy calls
• Attending tastings, walk-throughs, and site visits as needed
• Coordinating and communicating with internal departments, vendors, caterers, and guests
• Actively participating in Development and interdepartmental meetings

Qualifications and Requirements

Qualified candidates will demonstrate strong communication and interpersonal skills, along with the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. The ideal intern is organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities while maintaining a positive, professional demeanor. Additional qualifications include:

• Ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment
• Proactive, independent work style with the ability to contribute effectively as part of a team
• Basic computer proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel
• Experience with a donor database such as Tessitura, and familiarity with fundraising or development work, is beneficial but not required

This position supports events held in both indoor and outdoor venues. Interns may occasionally assist with moving event-related equipment weighing up to 40 pounds and should be comfortable working during events that take place in a variety of weather conditions.

Hours

35-40 hours/week, with overtime as needed. Hours vary based on the event schedule with some work on weekends and evenings.

This job description in no way implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. The fundamental job requirements are included, and these are the essential job functions. Employees will be required to perform any other job-related duties assigned by their supervisor. All requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.

The Santa Fe Opera supports employees with its robust safety program, devotion to environmental sustainability and commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion while setting the industry standard for stagecraft. The Santa Fe Opera has an industry-wide reputation as an excellent employer, providing rewarding opportunities amid a setting of great natural beauty. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, the Santa Fe Opera celebrates diversity and inclusion. We do not discriminate against any employee or job applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, creed, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy, disability, age, veteran status, political affiliation or philosophy. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.