Adjunct Faculty – Opera Theater

Rider University; Lawrenceville (NJ); On-site; USD 4,200 - 4,300; Part time

Job summary

Rider University’s Westminster College of Media and Performing Arts invites applications for an adjunct instructor of Opera Theater to direct the spring production of Le nozze di Figaro (abridged). The 3-credit course is scheduled for the Spring 2027 semester beginning January 25, 2027, with rehearsals to follow.

The position requires a Bachelor's degree or equivalent and significant opera-direction experience, with a commitment to working with diverse student artists and managing a strict

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent professional experience.
• Significant experience in opera direction, both at the professional and at the academic level.
• Experience working with a diverse population including young artists or student singers.
• Excellent verbal and interpersonal skills.
• Experience adhering to a strict budget.
• Experience and skill in creative problem solving.
• Works well and calmly under pressure and deadlines.
• Understanding of all elements of production that intersect with the position of stage director.

Education

Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent

Job description

We take pride in the ever-evolving nature of our work, which transforms the lives of our students, preparing them for personal and professional success.

Rider University is consistently recognized by The Prin ceton Review and U.S. News & World Report as a best college, and as a best-value institution. With more than 100 majors, minors and programs, 19 Division I athletic teams and 150-plus clubs and organizations, Rider Broncs create their own pathways to success with the support of the University community.

Position Overview

The Westminster College of Media and Performing Arts of Rider University invites applicants for an adjunct instructor of Opera Theater within Westminster Choir College. This position is to direct the spring production of Le nozze di Figaro (abridged). The Spring 2027 semester begins on January 25, 2027 with musical rehearsals. Staging rehearsals would begin at the discretion of Opera Theater Director, Professor Susan Ashbaker.

Salary is $4,215.98 for a 3-credit course. Please note that a full course is considered to have 9 students enrolled in the course. If a section is not full, 8 or fewer enrollees, the salary is prorated based on the number of students enrolled in the course.

Required Knowledge, Skills And Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree (or equivalent professional experience).
• Significant experience in opera direction, both at the professional and at the academic level.
• Experience working with a diverse population including young artists or student singers.
• Excellent verbal and interpersonal skills.
• Experience adhering to a strict budget.
• Experience and skill in creative problem solving.
• Works well and calmly under pressure and deadlines.
• Understanding of all elements of production that intersect with the position of stage director.
• Satisfactory background and/or DMV checks required.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills And Experience

Master’s Degree in either the Music or Theater Fields, and/or significant professional and academic experience in opera direction.

Rider University is committed to fostering an inclusive, vibrant living and learning community that embraces students, faculty, and staff of all backgrounds and enables them to achieve success.

Rider University is an Equal Opportunity Employer.