Technicians Application Info
2024 Technical Apprentice Positions
Our Production Staff is comprised of experienced designers, technicians and craftspeople from regional theatres, opera companies and universities from around the world. Over 60% of our staff are former Santa Fe Opera technical apprentices. Staff compensation varies depending on the responsibilities of the position and the experience of the applicant. Staff housing is arranged by the Opera and a small housing deduction is deducted weekly from your base pay. All staff receive financial assistance towards the cost of travel to and from Santa Fe.
Working alongside our professional staff are apprentice technicians from colleges and theatre conservatories across the country. The Apprentice Program for Theatre Technicians, established in 1965, is an intermediate to advanced training program. The program offers instruction and practical experience in stage operations, properties, audio/video, costumes, production/music services, wigs and makeup, electrics and scenic art. Apprentices receive an hourly wage plus applicable overtime, and financial assistance with the cost of travel to and from Santa Fe. Apprentice housing is located in Opera-owned apartments in downtown Santa Fe, and a small housing deduction is deducted weekly from their base pay.
The festival season schedule is very demanding and challenging, but is also very rewarding. Due to the outdoor setting of our venue, technical rehearsals must begin after sunset, and therefore extend late into the night.
In addition to the daily work responsibilities, throughout the summer season we offer Director and Designer presentations, master classes, specialty workshops, and resume and portfolio reviews. Once all of the season’s repertory productions have opened, technical apprentices participate in the production of two fully staged opera scenes programs featuring Santa Fe Opera’s apprentice singers. We also host a Portfolio Fair at which seasonal employees can share their work with fellow employees, designers, industry professionals and other invited guests. Those participating in the Portfolio Fair should arrive at the beginning of the summer with a fully prepared portfolio, as there is very limited time to work on it once you arrive.
Audio & Video
Introduction
ALL POSITIONS HAVE BEEN FILLED FOR THE 2024 SEASON
Audio/ Video apprentices set-up, operate, maintain and repair equipment used to support the rehearsals and production of a five opera repertory season. Apprentices are also responsible for multiple roles during the rehearsal process from interacting with stage management on video monitor positions to adjusting audio needs. They will closely work with their supervisors to ensure shows and rehearsals are running smoothly. 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 20, 2024. Hourly rate for the Audio/Video Apprentices is $12.50 per hour with overtime potential.
Positions Available: (4)
Costume Shop
Introduction
The Santa Fe Opera Costume Shop is a highly collaborative team of talented professionals and apprentices. The shop celebrates the contributions of each individual and the strength created through the combined efforts of the team. We recognize that our work is physically and mentally challenging and are fueled by collective creativity and a desire to execute at a high standard. Average number of hours worked weekly varies by position and throughout the season (40-65 hours/week).
First time Costume applicants must also submit a hand sewing sample which includes examples of the following: cross stitch (herringbone/catch-stitch), whip stitch (hemming stitch), slip stitch, hook and eye, a 4-hole button sewn with thread shank, and a snap. Front/back images of this sewing sample should be emailed to prodjobs@santafeopera.org
9 to 14 weeks of costume construction, paint/dye, millinery, crafts, wardrobe or administration. Start dates vary beginning in mid-May.
Non-Dressing Costume Apprentices
Non-Dressing Costume Apprentices are assigned to a team in one the following areas: Stitching (with a Draping/Tailoring team), Crafts, Millinery, Administration. Each team supports the 5-production repertory season. Within each of these teams, responsibilities may include the following: constructing/altering/finishing work on new and existing costume pieces; pressing/rolling of fabrics; steaming/labeling finished pieces; daily shop maintenance tasks; helping to facilitate and maintain the organizational practices of the Costume Department. Applicants should have costume/fashion technology experience or similar experience in other theatrical venues, including hand- and industrial machine-stitching. Start dates varies beginning in mid-May. Hourly rate for these positions is $12.50 per hour with overtime potential.
Dressing Costume Apprentices
Dressing Costume Apprentices are assigned to a team in one the following areas: Stitching (with a Draping/Tailoring team), Crafts, Millinery. Dressing Apprentices also participate in the Wardrobe Team in the support of the 5-production repertory season. Within each of these teams, responsibilities may include the following: constructing/altering/finishing work on new and existing costume pieces; pressing/rolling of fabrics; steaming/labeling finished pieces; daily shop maintenance tasks; helping to facilitate and maintain the organizational practices of the Costume Department; inventorying costumes at check-in/check-out; assisting artists in dressing at top of show and throughout performance (including quick-changes); assisting with laundry collection and show changeover. Applicants should have costume/fashion technology experience or similar experience in other theatrical venues, including hand- and industrial machine-stitching. Start dates varies beginning in mid-May. Hourly rate for these positions is $12.50 per hour with overtime potential.
Electrics
Introduction
ALL POSITIONS HAVE BEEN FILLED FOR THE 2024 SEASON
9 weeks of hang, trial focus, practical construction, and technical and dress rehearsals. 4 weeks of daily repertory focus and running shows. Start dates vary, starting late May, 2024.
Production & Music Services
Introduction
ALL POSITIONS HAVE BEEN FILLED FOR THE 2024 SEASON
12 weeks of supporting performances, onstage rehearsals, orchestra rehearsals and general notes. This position overlaps with several areas of production, i.e.: stage, props, and scenic art. Excellent position for someone interested in theatre production. Heavy lifting and physical stamina required.
Positions Available: Apprentices (5)
Properties Department
Introduction
ALL POSITIONS HAVE BEEN FILLED FOR THE 2024 SEASON
12 to 16 weeks in construction and finishing of furniture, stage dressing and prop elements. Run staff and apprentices support technical and dress rehearsals and repertory performances. Earliest start date for Properties Apprentices is mid-May, 2024.
Positions Available: Apprentices (14) -9 Run Crew, 2 Carpenters/Run Crew, 2 Crafts/Run Crew, 1 Painter/Crafts/Run Crew
Scenic Art Department
Introduction
ALL POSITIONS HAVE BEEN FILLED FOR THE 2024 SEASON
12 weeks of scenic painting, sculpture, texture, other finish work. You must submit a portfolio to be considered for this position. Earliest start date for Scenic Art apprentices is mid-May, 2024.
Positions Available: Apprentices (3)
Stage Department
Introduction
ALL POSITIONS HAVE BEEN FILLED FOR THE 2024 SEASON
14 weeks of technical and dress rehearsals, work notes, repertory scenic changes and repertory running crew. Heavy lifting and physical stamina is a must.
Positions Available: Apprentices (19) – 19 Stage Crew
Wigs & Makeup
Introduction
ALL POSITIONS HAVE BEEN FILLED FOR THE 2024 SEASON
8 weeks of construction of new wigs and accessories, and dressing of existing pieces. 4 weeks of wig maintenance and makeup for repertory performances. Start date is early June 2024.
Positions Available: Apprentices (4)
Apply Now
The Production Department Application process for the 2024 Season is now available.
The deadline for application is March 24, 2024.
Please follow the instructions below:
- Submit an Application Form using the link below.
- Email a copy of your current resume to prodjobs@santafeopera.org
- Forward the link of the Recommendation Form to a shop supervisor/manager or designer who can describe your work. They must fill out and submit the form.
If you have any questions, you may email prodjobs@santafeopera.org.