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Opera Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Perk up your career with a bold new opportunity at Peet's Coffee! We're seeking passionate people to join our team as Baristas. Do you want to work with curious, authentic, and passionate people who ...

Barista - Opera Plaza

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$20.25 - $20.75/hr

Perk up your career with a bold new opportunity at Peet's Coffee! We're seeking passionate people to join our team as Baristas. Do you want to work with curious, authentic, and passionate people who ...

Shift Lead - Opera Plaza

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$22.50 - $23/hr

Perk up your career with a bold new opportunity at Peet's Coffee! We're seeking passionate people to join our team as Shift Leads. Do you want to work with curious, authentic, and passionate people ...

Perk up your career with a bold new opportunity at Peet's Coffee! We're seeking passionate people to join our team as Shift Leads. Do you want to work with curious, authentic, and passionate people ...

One Stop

Palm Springs, CA ยท On-site

$18/hr

Answer all incoming phone calls to the hotel, and transfer as needed also check in and check out guests in the Opera system. Job Functions: Guest Related Tasks * Answer all in-house guest phone calls ...

New

Leadership Gifts Associate

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$76K - $96K/yr

Knowledge of opera/performing arts preferred. * Demonstrated successful track record of task management. * Understanding of basic principles of sales techniques and customer service. * Ability to ...

Leadership Gifts Associate

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$76K - $96K/yr

Knowledge of opera/performing arts preferred. Demonstrated successful track record of task management. Understanding of basic principles of sales techniques and customer service. Ability to perform ...

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Opera information

See California salary details

$10

$17

$22

How much do opera jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for opera in California is $17.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by opera singers when preparing for a new role?

Opera singers often encounter challenges such as mastering complex vocal scores in foreign languages, adapting to varying stage directions, and balancing intensive rehearsal schedules. Learning to interpret a character both musically and dramatically requires significant preparation and research. Additionally, singers must maintain vocal health amidst demanding performance periods, and collaborate closely with conductors, directors, and fellow cast members to ensure a cohesive production.

What is an opera singer?

An opera singer is a professionally trained vocalist who performs in operas, which are dramatic stage works combining singing, orchestral music, and sometimes dance. Opera singers use powerful vocal techniques to project their voices over an orchestra without amplification. They often sing in multiple languages and must convey deep emotion and character through their performance. Training for opera singing typically involves years of vocal study and language learning, in addition to acting and stage movement. Opera singers perform in opera houses and may also participate in concerts and recitals.

What is the difference between Opera vs Stage Manager?

AspectOperaStage Manager
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in music, theater, or related field; specialized training in opera productionRequires a background in theater, production, or stage management; often a degree or experience in theater arts
Work EnvironmentOperas, theaters, concert halls; often involves working with performers and production teamsTheater or performance venues; coordinating rehearsals, performances, and technical aspects
Industry UsageCommonly used in classical music and opera companiesUsed across theater, musical productions, and live performances

Opera professionals focus on singing, musical direction, and production of operatic performances, while Stage Managers coordinate all aspects of live performances, including rehearsals and technical operations. Both roles require strong organizational skills but differ in their specific responsibilities and industry focus.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Opera Singer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Opera Singer, you need advanced vocal technique, musical literacy, and typically formal training such as a degree in vocal performance. Familiarity with languages (especially Italian, German, and French), stagecraft, and music notation software is also important. Exceptional emotional expression, stage presence, and strong collaborative skills set standout performers apart. These abilities are crucial for delivering compelling performances, mastering complex roles, and building a successful career in the competitive world of opera.

What Are Different Careers in Opera?

Opera careers include a variety of positions in and around an opera house. The opera singer is the most well-known position, but other roles involve helping manage the production, playing in the orchestra, marketing, casting, and producing materials for fundraising events. Most operatic roles involve a significant amount of coordination with other employees, particularly during performances, and you may start the planning process up to a year ahead of time. Office-based positions frequently use ticket and donor data to analyze trends, direct other employees to keep everything on-time, and purchase advertisements. Depending on your role, you may coordinate with non-profit companies or oversee interns.

What are the most commonly searched types of Opera jobs in California? The most popular types of Opera jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Opera jobs in California? For Opera jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for Opera jobs? Cities in California with the most Opera job openings:
Infographic showing various Opera job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,809 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Artist Services & Operations Manager

Merola Opera Program

San Francisco, CA โ€ข On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

About Merola Opera Program
Founded in 1957 and based in San Francisco, the Merola Opera Program is widely regarded as one of the finest opera training programs in the world. Each summer, Merola brings together emerging singers, pianists, apprentice coaches, and stage directors from across the globe for a ten-week residency that includes private coaching, master classes, and fully staged performances. Alumni include many of today's leading opera artists, and the program is supported by a passionate community of donors, board members, volunteers, and alumni.
Working at Merola means joining a small, dedicated team that is deeply committed to the artists we serve and the future of opera. The work is fast-paced and seasonal, with a culture that values care, collaboration, and creativity.
Role Summary
The Artist Services & Operations Manager is essential to the success of the Merola Opera Program. This role is the primary point of contact for program participants, the operational lead for the annual audition tour, and a key connector to Merola's distinguished alumni network. This role also supports daily office and program operations, working closely with the Director of Operations & Events.
This is a full-time, hybrid position. Evening and weekend availability is required during the summer program and for special events throughout the year, along with travel for auditions.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Artist Services
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for Merola participants, including event coordination, daily support, and resources.
  • Coordinate housing, travel, and scheduling for participants, guest artists, faculty, and visiting staff as directed.
  • Gather participant stories for marketing and communications.
  • Administer the annual audition tour, including applications, communications, logistics, and venue coordination.

Program Management
  • Serve as operational liaison with San Francisco Opera Center, San Francisco Conservatory of Music, and other program partners and vendors.
  • Manage front-of-house operations and volunteer coordination for performances and events.
  • Oversee program documentation, data collection, and reporting.

Alumni Relations and Engagement
  • Maintain and develop the alumni database and manage communications, including career tracking for impact assessment and storytelling.
  • Coordinate alumni events and networking, and serve as a resource for career support, references, and testimonials.
  • Support alumni granting programs, including grantee outreach and documentation.

Administrative and Operational Support
  • Oversee office operations, including supplies, equipment, IT, and records management.
  • Process invoices, expense reports, reimbursements, and vendor documentation.
  • Create and manage documents, presentations, and collateral for events.
  • Develop written procedures for operational processes.
  • Set and track annual goals and performance measures.
  • Support website maintenance and marketing projects.
  • Coordinate onboarding, HR processes, and special projects in partnership with the Director of Operations.

Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Required
  • Bachelor's degree in music, arts administration, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
  • Three years of experience in arts administration, nonprofit operations, or a related field, with direct experience supporting performing artists.
  • Proficiency in database management, Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, Airtable, Salesforce, Adobe, and Canva.
  • Based in the SF Bay Area or willing to relocate. Minimum two days per week in-office, more during events and the summer season.
  • Ability to work evenings and weekends for events and to travel for the annual audition tour.
  • Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Preferred
  • Knowledge of opera, classical music, or the broader performing arts industry.
  • Experience with audition processes, artist development, or young artist programs.
  • Familiarity with the San Francisco Bay Area arts community.

Compensation and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $70,000 to $80,000 annually, commensurate with experience. Merola Opera Program offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan, paid time off, and paid national holidays.
How to Apply
To apply, please submit a resume and a brief cover letter outlining your interest in the role and relevant experience through BambooHR.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Merola Opera Program is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.