1

Met Opera Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Publicist

New York, NY

$75K - $80K/yr

... the Met at performances to provide media with information and answer questions. Press duty requirements include a minimum of one performance per week, including some weekends throughout the opera ...

... the Met at performances to provide media with information and answer questions. Press duty requirements include a minimum of one performance per week, including some weekends throughout the opera ...

Publicist

New York, NY · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

... the Met at performances to provide media with information and answer questions. Press duty requirements include a minimum of one performance per week, including some weekends throughout the opera ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Met Opera information

See salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do met opera jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for met opera in the United States is $16.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Metropolitan Opera performer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Metropolitan Opera performer, you need advanced vocal technique, a deep understanding of music theory, and formal training in opera performance, often evidenced by degrees or conservatory experience. Proficiency in multiple languages, familiarity with classical repertoire, and experience using stage direction and music interpretation tools are typical requirements. Exceptional stage presence, emotional expressiveness, and collaborative skills distinguish outstanding performers in this highly competitive field. These skills ensure artists can deliver powerful, nuanced performances and work seamlessly with directors, conductors, and fellow cast members on an international stage.

What are some unique challenges of working in a production role at the Metropolitan Opera?

Working in a production role at the Metropolitan Opera often involves coordinating with large, multidisciplinary teams under tight deadlines, especially during busy performance seasons. You’ll need to balance creative input with strict operational standards and may face last-minute changes in staging, costumes, or technical requirements. Adaptability and strong communication skills are essential, as you'll regularly collaborate with artists, designers, and technical staff to deliver world-class performances. The fast-paced environment offers valuable learning opportunities and the chance to work alongside some of the best professionals in the field.

What is the difference between Met Opera vs Met Opera Stage Manager?

AspectMet OperaMet Opera Stage Manager
Primary RoleOpera company management and production oversightOversees the staging and coordination of specific opera productions
Required CredentialsExperience in arts administration, possibly arts management degreesBackground in stage management, theater arts, or related fields
Work EnvironmentOpera houses, administrative offices, production venuesOn-site during rehearsals and performances, backstage and stage areas
Industry UsageUsed broadly for the organization and management of opera companiesSpecific to the coordination of individual opera productions

While both roles are integral to the success of opera productions, the Met Opera generally refers to the entire organization, including management and administrative functions. The Met Opera Stage Manager focuses specifically on the logistical and operational aspects of staging individual operas, ensuring smooth rehearsals and performances.

What is the Met Opera?

The Met Opera, short for the Metropolitan Opera, is one of the world’s leading opera companies, based in New York City. Founded in 1883, it presents a wide range of both classic and contemporary operas, featuring renowned singers, conductors, and creative teams from around the globe. The Met is known for its high-quality productions, innovative staging, and commitment to making opera accessible to broad audiences through live performances, broadcasts, and digital streaming. It operates out of the Metropolitan Opera House at Lincoln Center and is a cornerstone of American cultural life.
More about Met Opera jobs
What cities are hiring for Met Opera jobs? Cities with the most Met Opera job openings:
What states have the most Met Opera jobs? States with the most job openings for Met Opera jobs include:
Publicist

$75K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

The Metropolitan Opera is looking for a dynamic Publicist to join the Press team. The ideal candidate will be a culturally voracious, proactive storyteller with experience placing compelling stories in both print, broadcast, and digital media. The candidate will have a curiosity for and interest in placing stories with non-traditional media such as podcast producers, newsletter writers, and influential voices across social platforms. The Publicist will have deep knowledge and understanding of classical music, along with strong familiarity of media publications in New York, nationally, and internationally, as well as excellent news judgment and storytelling ability.

Primary Responsibilities
  • PITCHING AND STRATEGY: This role will collaborate with members of the press team on planning and pitching all Met productions and annual institutional announcements with the aim of reaching target audiences with efficiency and precision.

    This person in this position will take the lead on strategizing and publicizing the Met's repertory productions and will support pitching for new productions. They will also proactively identify stories related to Met activities including The Met: Live in HD, the Lindeman Young Artist Development Program, the Laffont Competition, and other institutional activities as assigned.

    The Publicist will also support the team on Press activations and events. For example, helping promote and manage media days, red carpet events, and content-generating activities.

  • RELATIONSHIP BUILDING: Build and maintain ongoing working relationships with journalists, critics, producers, and influential figures shaping culture. This person will take on the responsibility of researching and developing new relationships and helping the team identify potential new opportunities.
  • WRITING: This position will be responsible for writing and approval of all production and some institutional press releases, navigating the drafts through the approval process from first draft to distribution. The Publicist will oversee the press release calendar and liaise with relevant stakeholders to ensure clear, timely communication regarding distribution timelines.
  • ORGANIZATION: Contribute to the smooth operation of the Met press office, including media monitoring, maintaining an extensive, up-to-date contact database, and ensuring that all press queries are dealt with efficiently and in a timely manner. This position will also manage the Press department's day-to-day systems including the department's story tracker and weekly operational schedule and will schedule informational interviews with creative team members and artists for the press team.
  • PRESS DUTY: Represent the Met at performances to provide media with information and answer questions. Press duty requirements include a minimum of one performance per week, including some weekends throughout the opera season as well as Special Event coverage including but not limited to Opening Night Gala and New Year's Eve Gala.
Skills and Qualifications
  • Broad knowledge of classical music is essential; opera knowledge a plus.
  • Minimum 5 years of public relations, media relations, communications or journalism experience, ideally in a performing arts environment.
  • Excellent writing and communications skills.
  • Proven ability to work under pressure to deliver multiple projects as required.
  • A developed network of media contacts across arts, entertainment and news media.
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent preferred.
$75,000 - $80,000 a year
The Metropolitan Opera is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and existing employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth, lactation and related medical conditions), national origin, citizenship status, age, physical and mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information (including characteristics and testing), military and veteran status, or any protected category prohibited by local, state or federal laws.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
apply for this job