1

Chicago Symphony Orchestra Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Arts Events Coordinator

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$23 - $24.50/hr

The position serves as Head House and Stage Manager for major Conservatory events, such as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra performances, Christmas Festival, Children's Concert, and Commencement ...

Cardiac

Chicago, IL · On-site

$412K/yr

Chicago Symphony Orchestra * Amazing Chicago's Funhouse Maze * The neo-Gothic Tribune Tower, John Hancock Center, and Willis Tower (originally known as the Sears Tower) * Navy Pier * Colleges and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Chicago Symphony Orchestra information

See salary details

$47K

$137.6K

$185.5K

How much do chicago symphony orchestra jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for chicago symphony orchestra in the United States is $137,563.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $110,000.00 and $174,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the typical rehearsal and performance schedule for members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra?

Members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra typically follow a structured weekly schedule that includes multiple rehearsals—both full orchestra and sectional—alongside regular performances, often in the evenings and on weekends. The pace can be intense, especially during peak concert or touring seasons, requiring excellent time management and stamina. Musicians are expected to prepare repertoire independently as well as participate in group practice, and the collaborative environment demands strong teamwork and professionalism. In addition to concerts at Symphony Center, additional commitments may include educational outreach, recordings, and community events. This fast-paced yet rewarding environment fosters artistic growth and camaraderie among orchestra members.

What is a Chicago Symphony Orchestra?

A Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) job refers to a role within one of the world's leading orchestras, based in Chicago, Illinois. Positions can range from musicianship roles, such as instrumentalists and conductors, to administrative and technical support roles that help manage performances, fundraising, marketing, and operations. CSO jobs typically require high levels of expertise, whether in music performance or organizational support. Competitive auditions or hiring processes are involved, especially for musician roles. Working for the CSO offers the opportunity to contribute to a prestigious cultural institution known for its artistic excellence.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive in the Chicago Symphony Orchestra?

To thrive as a member of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, you need exceptional technical proficiency on your instrument, advanced sight-reading abilities, and extensive ensemble performance experience, often supported by a relevant music degree or conservatory training. Familiarity with orchestral repertoire, audition protocols, and rehearsal management systems is essential. Collaboration, adaptability, dedication to continual improvement, and excellent interpersonal communication distinguish outstanding musicians in this role. These abilities ensure cohesive, high-level performances and consistent artistic excellence within a world-renowned orchestra.

What cities are hiring for Chicago Symphony Orchestra jobs? Cities with the most Chicago Symphony Orchestra job openings:
What states have the most Chicago Symphony Orchestra jobs? States with the most job openings for Chicago Symphony Orchestra jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Chicago Symphony Orchestra jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Chicago Symphony Orchestra jobs are:
Infographic showing various Chicago Symphony Orchestra job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $137,563 per year, or $66.1 per hour.

Arts Events Coordinator

Wheaton College

Wheaton, IL • On-site

$23 - $24.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description


Arts Events Coordinator-Conservatory of Music
Job Overview
Reporting to the Manager of Arts Events & Operations, this role provides project coordination for Conservatory events requiring production support, including concerts and guest artist visits or residencies. The position serves as Head House and Stage Manager for major Conservatory events, such as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra performances, Christmas Festival, Children's Concert, and Commencement Concert, as well as other assigned events. This role also functions as the lead administrator for the Spektrix ticketing system. The position is a 0.88 FTE, totaling 1,830 annual work hours, with a schedule averaging 40 hours per week for nine months, 20 hours per week for three months and pays $23.00-$24.50 per hour.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Recruit, hire, train, and supervise student staff supporting arts events, including box office operations, front-of-house services, and stage/backstage procedures; oversee their performance both during events and in preparation phases.
  • Ensure that box office operations are fully staffed and effectively managed at all event venues.
  • Coordinate front-of-house hospitality for major Conservatory events and support hospitality efforts for Commencement in collaboration with the Registrar's Office; manage front-of-house and stage operations for medium and smaller-scale events.
  • Recruit, train, and coordinate usher volunteers for major arts events and Commencement.
  • Oversee the administration of the Spektrix ticketing system, including event setup, user management, and post-event sales reconciliation; train new users and supervise ticket sales operations at the Armerding Reception Area. Maintain ticketing-related hardware, including secure credit card devices.
  • Serve as Head Manager for Conservatory events, overseeing student staff and coordinating with technical teams to ensure the smooth execution of performances. Events include, but are not limited to, Children's Concert, Homecoming, Family Weekend, Christmas Festival, Artist Series, Opera Mainstage, selected ensemble concerts, Chicago Symphony Orchestra events, Commencement Concert, and Commencement.
  • Ensure compliance with college risk management, safety, and security protocols; train and verify that event staff are prepared in emergency procedures, including CPR and defibrillator use.
  • Coordinate guest artist engagements, including performance logistics, travel arrangements, and hospitality for residencies.
  • Support the Arts Marketing and Promotions Specialist as needed, including maintaining event web pages and updating ticketing and promotional information.

This job description is intended to represent key areas of responsibility; specific assignments may vary from time to time, and other duties may be assigned.
Professional Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree required; music degree strongly preferred.
  • Demonstrated experience in event planning and management highly desirable.
  • Strong verbal communication and active listening skills, with proven problem-solving abilities.
  • Self-motivated, energetic, and able to take initiative.
  • Highly organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently and effectively.
  • Willingness and availability to work evenings and weekends as required.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365; familiarity with Asana, Spektrix, Squiz, and credit card processing systems preferred.

Faith Qualifications
  • Affirmation of the Wheaton College Statement of Faith as a faithful expression of one's own theological convictions
  • Affirmation of the biblical standards for Christian character and God-honoring behavior described throughout the Wheaton College Community Covenant, and promise to adhere to them in personal practice
  • Support of the Wheaton College Christ-Centered Diversity Commitment, the Gender Equity Vision Statement, and the College's Convictions on Human Sexuality. These commitments can be found on the Wheaton College website.

Physical Requirements
The employee is regularly required to sit, talk, or hear; frequently required to use repetitive hand motion, handle or feel, and to stand, walk, reach, bend or lift up to 40 pounds. Pushing, pulling and moving of stage equipment is often required.
FLSA Status - Non Exempt
Updated June 2026