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Opera Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Metropolitan Opera

Safety Coordinator

New York, NY · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

The Safety Coordinator reports to the Met Opera's Director of Safety. This role provides administrative, coordination, and observational support across all aspects of the Met's safety function. The ...

The Metropolitan Opera

Safety Coordinator

New York, NY · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

The Safety Coordinator reports to the Met Opera's Director of Safety. This role provides administrative, coordination, and observational support across all aspects of the Met's safety function. The ...

The Metropolitan Opera

Be Seen First

Key Holder, Part-Time

New York, NY · On-site

$21/hr

Perform other duties as directed Skills and Qualifications * Excellent selling skills * Strong math skills and basic knowledge of retail math * A love of the opera and a strong knowledge of opera ...

The Metropolitan Opera

Be Seen First

Sales Associate, Part-Time

New York, NY · On-site

$17/hr

Company Description The Metropolitan Opera is a vibrant home for the most creative and talented singers, conductors, composers, musicians, stage directors, designers, visual artists, choreographers ...

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How much do opera director jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for opera director in the United States is $73,624.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,000.00 and $99,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Opera Director do?

An Opera Director is responsible for overseeing the artistic vision and staging of an opera production. They work closely with performers, designers, and conductors to bring the story to life through movement, characterization, and visual elements. Their role includes interpreting the score and libretto, guiding rehearsals, and ensuring cohesion between music and theatrical performance. Ultimately, they shape the overall audience experience by blending music, drama, and stagecraft.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Opera Director position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Opera Director, you need a deep understanding of music, dramatic interpretation, and stagecraft, usually supported by formal training in theatre, music, or opera direction. Familiarity with score reading software, stage management systems, and sometimes union regulations is important for coordinating performances and rehearsals. Superior leadership, creativity, communication, and organizational skills help guide teams and bring artistic visions to life. These abilities are crucial for successfully navigating complex productions and ensuring cohesive, compelling performances.

What are the main challenges an Opera Director faces during a production?

Opera Directors often encounter the challenge of balancing artistic vision with the practical constraints of budgets, casting, and venue limitations. Coordinating large teams—including singers, musicians, designers, and technicians—requires strong leadership and communication throughout the rehearsal process. Successfully resolving creative differences and logistical issues while adhering to deadlines is a key part of the role. The ability to adapt and problem-solve on the fly ensures that both rehearsals and performances run smoothly, ultimately bringing the director’s vision to the stage.
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Opera Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Opera Director job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 29% Physical, 70% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,624 per year, or $35.4 per hour.
Assistant Professor of Opera Theatre

Assistant Professor of Opera Theatre

University of Northern Colorado

Greeley, CO

Other

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

To ensure full consideration, applications must be received by 11:59pm (MT) on May 27, 2026.

Position Summary:

The School of Music in the College of Performing and Visual Artsat the University of Northern Colorado is seeking a collaborative, creative,and engaging Contract Renewable Assistant Professor of Opera Theatre.

Job Duties:

TheUniversity of Northern Colorado School of Music invites applications for a contractrenewable, full-time appointment as Assistant Professor of Opera Theatre. The successfulcandidate will actively recruit music majors within the framework of our goalof increasing diversity, equity, and inclusion, and work collaboratively withcolleagues to advance the School's programs and initiatives. Candidates withproven professional national or international experience in opera directing arehighly desired and will receive preference. Additionally, areas ofspecialization in opera history, coaching, mentoring young directors willreceive preference. Specific responsibilities include directing two opera eachyear, directing at least one opera scenes program, outreach, recruitment, andpossibly additional areas within the School of Music based on a candidate'sstrengths, qualifications, and interests. Graduate teaching is possible withappropriate credentials. Other assignments will depend on interest, experience,and program needs.      
Witha history of excellence and leadership in arts and education, the School ofMusic is a community of students, teachers, artists, scholars, and musicindustry professionals. Our 40 full-time and 30 adjunct faculty teach andsupport over 350 music majors pursuing undergraduate, masters, and doctoraldegrees in programs including performance, music education, jazz studies, musicbusiness, composition, theory, and history & literature; and certificateprograms in Music Technology and Arts Entrepreneurship. Primarily housed inhistoric Frasier Hall, our facilities include a fully equipped andprofessionally managed recording studio and the new Campus Commons PerformanceHall. We adhere to the values of College of Performing and Visual Arts:Creative Thinking, Belonging & Justice, Integrity, SustainingRelationships, and Tradition & Transformation.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • MM in Opera Directing, or an Artist or Performers Certificate in Opera Directing with an MM in a related field
  • 3 years of opera direction and related coursework at the college level, or commensurate professional experience
  • Record of professional direction experience of a regional or wider scope
  • Potential for success in student recruitment
  • Experience working with individuals from varied backgrounds

PreferredQualifications:

  • Terminal degree in Opera Directing, Stage Directing, Vocal Performance, ABD with degree completed by August 2026, or commensurate professional experience
  • 5 years of teaching opera direction, applied voice, and related coursework at the college level, including some graduate level teaching
  • Experience in teaching Opera History, Acting for Singers, Directing Seminar, or coaching
  • Experience and demonstrated success in developing resources to support an opera program
  • Demonstrated success in student recruitment
  • Applicants from underrepresented or margianized groups encouraged to apply

Application Materials to Include:

  • Cover Letter that includes a statement of Teaching Philosophy as well as qualifications and experience
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • List of references
  • Additional materials may be requested at a later date

Apply