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Holland Symphony Orchestra

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Orchestra Operations & Personnel Manager

Holland, MI · On-site

$12K - $15K/yr

The OPM will administer all personnel in matters of the Orchestra. This includes scheduling of musicians, hiring of substitute and extra musicians, and coordination of auditions under the direction ...

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How much do orchestra administrator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for orchestra administrator in the United States is $26.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $33.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an orchestra administrator?

Orchestra Administrators are professionals responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of an orchestra. Their duties typically include coordinating concerts and rehearsals, handling budgets and finances, communicating with musicians and conductors, and overseeing marketing and outreach efforts. They work behind the scenes to ensure the orchestra runs smoothly, allowing musicians to focus on their performances. This role is essential for both the artistic and logistical success of orchestral organizations.

What is the difference between Orchestra Administrator vs Orchestra Manager?

AspectOrchestra AdministratorOrchestra Manager
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in arts administration, music management, or related fieldsSimilar educational background, often with additional experience in arts or music management
Work EnvironmentOffice-based with frequent interactions with staff, musicians, and external partnersCombination of office work and on-site event supervision
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in arts organizations, orchestras, and cultural institutionsOften used interchangeably but may emphasize operational oversight

Both roles involve managing orchestral operations, but the Orchestra Administrator typically handles administrative tasks like budgeting, scheduling, and communication, while the Orchestra Manager focuses more on overseeing daily operations and event logistics. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are some of the biggest challenges faced by an orchestra administrator when coordinating performances?

One of the main challenges for an Orchestra Administrator is managing the complex logistics involved in scheduling rehearsals, securing venues, and coordinating with musicians, conductors, and guest artists. Balancing the needs and availability of a large ensemble while adhering to budget constraints and union regulations can be demanding. Additionally, administrators often handle last-minute changes, such as substitute musicians or altered program requirements, requiring strong problem-solving skills and flexibility. Effective communication and meticulous planning are key to ensuring performances run smoothly.

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

To thrive as an Orchestra Administrator, you need strong organizational abilities, knowledge of arts management, and often a degree in music, arts administration, or a related field. Familiarity with budgeting software, event management systems, and ticketing platforms is typically required. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills help foster positive relationships with musicians, staff, and patrons. These skills ensure smooth operations, effective event coordination, and the overall success of the orchestra’s performances and outreach.
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Orchestra Administrator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Orchestra Administrator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 29% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,625 per year, or $26.7 per hour.

Manager of Orchestra Operations & Personnel

Washington National Opera

Washington, DC • On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

The Manager of Orchestra Operations & Personnel serves as the primary management representative for the Washington National Opera Orchestra (WNO) and is responsible for the day-to-day administration of orchestra operations and personnel. As the department's lead orchestra administrator, the Manager oversees orchestra personnel management, administration of the American Federation of Musicians (AFM) Collective Bargaining Agreement, orchestra scheduling, musician contracting, payroll administration, budgeting, media services, and serves as management liaison to the Orchestra Committee and AFM Local 161-710.
As a member of the Artistic Planning & Operations department, the Manager collaborates closely with Artistic, Music, Production, Finance, Human Resources, Legal, Artist Services, Development, Marketing, and visiting artistic personnel to ensure the successful planning and execution of WNO productions and special events.
The position also supports broader departmental initiatives and may assume selected artistic operations responsibilities and special projects over time, with responsibilities evolving based on departmental priorities and the successful candidate's experience, interests, and demonstrated performance.
Orchestra Operations & Personnel
  • Administer and interpret the AFM Collective Bargaining Agreement.
  • Serve as primary management liaison to the Orchestra Committee and AFM Local 161-710.
  • Foster productive labor-management relationships and resolve contractual and personnel issues.
  • Manage musician hiring, contracting, tenure processes, leaves of absence, vacancies, substitute musicians, and roster maintenance.
  • Coordinate auditions in collaboration with the Music Director and artistic leadership.
  • Develop and administer orchestra schedules and musician assignments.
  • Resolve personnel matters and facilitate communication between musicians and management.
  • Maintain orchestra personnel records and contractual documentation.
  • Partner with Human Resources and Finance regarding payroll, contracts, and employment matters affecting musicians.
  • Support collective bargaining preparation and implementation.
  • Administer media services, recordings, broadcasts, and electronic media work in accordance with applicable AFM agreements.
  • Partner with conductors, librarians, production staff, and artistic leadership to ensure all orchestra needs are met.
  • Serve as orchestra management representative during rehearsals and performances.

Departmental Operations & Special Projects
  • Support Artistic Planning & Operations initiatives and departmental projects as assigned.
  • Coordinate cross-departmental operational initiatives and special projects.
  • Assist with artist contracting, production logistics, and operational planning, as assigned.
  • Collaborate with members of the Artistic Planning & Operations team to improve departmental systems, workflows, templates, and documentation.
  • Assume additional artistic operations responsibilities over time, consistent with departmental priorities and demonstrated experience.

Budgeting & Financial Administration
  • Develop and manage orchestra operating budgets.
  • Monitor orchestra labor expenses and forecast contractual obligations.
  • Collaborate with Finance on annual budget development and forecasting.
  • Review payroll, invoices, contractual obligations, and financial reporting.
  • Assist with departmental budget administration and financial planning as assigned.

Organizational Collaboration
  • Represent WNO in interactions with orchestra musicians, conductors, guest artists, artistic partners, and visiting companies.
  • Participate in season planning and production meetings.
  • Coordinate with Production, Finance, Human Resources, Legal, Development, Marketing, Community Engagement, and Education to support organizational objectives.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Music, Arts Administration, Performing Arts Management, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
  • Five to seven years of progressively responsible experience in orchestra management, orchestra operations, or performing arts administration.
  • Demonstrated experience administering AFM collective bargaining agreements.
  • Experience managing orchestra payroll, contracts, and budgets.
  • Experience working collaboratively across multiple departments in a performing arts organization.
  • Supervisory experience preferred.

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