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Opera Director Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

The Metropolitan Opera

Safety Coordinator

New York, NY

$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

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 ...

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$18.6K

$80.5K

$186.9K

How much do opera director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for opera director in New York is $80,491.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,264.00 and $108,780.00 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 skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an opera director?

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.

How much does an opera director make?

Opera directors typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, the size of the production, and the organization. Salaries can vary widely, with those working for major companies or in large markets earning higher wages. Many opera directors also supplement income through freelance work or consulting on multiple productions.

What are popular job titles related to Opera Director jobs in New York?

For Opera Director jobs in New York, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Opera Director jobs in New York look for?

The top searched job categories for Opera Director jobs in New York are:

What cities in New York are hiring for Opera Director jobs?

Cities in New York with the most Opera Director job openings:

Opera Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Opera Director job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,491 per year, or $38.7 per hour.

Safety Coordinator

The Metropolitan Opera

New York, NY

$70K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

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 ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to operate effectively in a fast-paced performing arts environment, demonstrating sound judgment, professionalism, and strong follow-through.

Primary Responsibilities

Production & Rehearsal Safety Support

  • Provide on-site safety support during rehearsals, technical rehearsals, load-ins, load-outs, changeovers, and select performances.
  • Assist with pre-rehearsal safety walkthroughs led by the Director of Safety or designated staff.
  • Observe and document potential hazards related to scenery, automation, rigging, stage effects, lifts, and moving elements.
  • Support communication of safety considerations to Stage Management, Production, Technical Directors, and department staff.
  • Escalate identified risks or concerns to the Director of Safety or appropriate personnel.

Hazard Identification & Risk Management

  • Assist with routine inspections of equipment, workspaces, and operations.
  • Support the preparation of Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs) and risk assessments.
  • Track corrective actions and follow-up items to ensure timely resolution.
  • Maintain organized hazard logs, inspection records, and related documentation.

Incident Documentation & Reporting

  • Assist in gathering information related to incidents and near-miss events.
  • Document incident details, including witness statements and supporting materials.
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date safety records in accordance with regulatory requirements.
  • Track incident trends and assist in preparing routine safety reports and summaries.
  • Support preparation of materials for Monthly Safety Meetings and Safety Committee Meetings.
  • Training & Compliance Support
  • Support the coordination and delivery of safety orientations and training sessions.
  • Assist in scheduling and tracking third-party training and certifications.
  • Maintain training records and ensure documentation is complete and current.
  • Support compliance efforts with OSHA, FDNY, and other applicable regulations.

Technical & Administrative Support

  • Maintain Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and chemical inventory records.
  • Assist with permit tracking and coordination for special effects and high-risk activities.
  • Support Fire and Life Safety efforts, including emergency preparedness drills and exercises.
  • Maintain safety equipment inventories and inspection logs (e.g., fire extinguishers, harnesses, fall protection equipment).
  • Assist in updating safety manuals, procedures, and safety plans.

Employee Safety Concerns

  • Assist in documenting and following up on safety concerns raised by employees and employee committees; escalate findings to the Director of Safety and support the development and tracking of appropriate remediation actions.
Skills and Qualifications

Required

  • 2–4 years of experience in Occupational Health & Safety, operations, or a related support role.
  • Working knowledge of OSHA regulations and general workplace safety practices.
  • Experience with documentation, reporting, and administrative tracking.
  • Strong written communication skills.
  • Ability to work evenings, weekends, and performance schedules as needed.
  • Ability to work in physically active environments, including at heights when required.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).

Preferred

  • Exposure to technical theater, stage operations, live events, or similar environments.
  • Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Safety, Technical Theater, Engineering, or related field.
  • OSHA 30 certification (General Industry or Construction).
  • First Aid/CPR/AED certification.
  • Experience in large-scale performing arts or live entertainment venues.

Competencies

  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • Ability to follow established processes and escalate issues appropriately.
  • Calm and professional demeanor in fast-paced environments.
  • Collaborative mindset with strong interpersonal skills.
  • Sound judgment and reliability.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
Physical Demands
This position may require occasional evening and weekend work to support operational needs, events, or time-sensitive initiatives.
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 and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. 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.