Director of Production

National Opera Center; Pittsburgh, Northern (Allegheny County, KY); Hybrid; USD 105,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

Pittsburgh Opera is seeking a full-time Director of Production to advance artistic excellence and safety across all productions, events, and outreach.

Next-level leadership will manage staffing, budgeting, and rentals, while ensuring compliance with industry standards and venue partnerships. The role requires navigating unions, supervising a diverse team, and aligning with the company's mission and financial goals.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in director/production roles in opera or live performance.
• Proven supervisory experience and ability to budget and run large productions.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of production stewardship for season, activities, and events.
• Develop and manage production budgets and calendars; coordinate staffing and rentals.
• Lead safety/compliance, liaise with venues, and manage union relations.
• Direct facilities and warehouse operations—Bitz Opera Factory oversight.
• Foster collaborative leadership and support outreach and fundraising events.

Skills

5+ years experience

team leadership

oral and written communication

MS Office

project management

union labor relations

sound and lighting equipment

Education

Undergraduate degree

Tools

MS Office

Project management software

Job description

Pittsburgh Opera is seeking a full-time Director of Production to advance the company’s commitment to artistic excellence, uphold safety standards, and steward all production activities in support of the company’s mission and long-term financial goals. The Director of Production is a member of the senior management team and oversees all staged productions, Resident Artist Program productions, outreach events, special events, and all other events that require production support. The Director of Production reports to the General Director.

Key Responsibilities

Production Stewardship

Participate in the season planning process, researching and advising on productions, scheduling, and budget implications. Responsible for recommending, engaging and managing all necessary technical personnel for productions and the Production Department. Responsible for negotiating set and costume rentals for all productions and stewarding the design process for all new productions with directors, designers, and opera staff. Maintains Pittsburgh Opera production rental catalogue and establishes rental rates and conditions.

Budgeting and Financial Management

Develops production budgets that support the planned season and align with the company’s overall financial goals. Developing production calendars and timelines for each production and determines time, labor and material requirements for each production. Oversees management of all expenses, payroll, and purchases related to productions and events and provides regular financial reporting to senior leadership.

Technical Operations and Safety Compliance

Oversee all technical, design, and logistical elements of opera production and events. Attend all lighting sessions, technical rehearsals, and performances. Serves as liaison with the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust venues and other community venues regarding production matters. Serves as company’s primary resource on stage safety and compliance with all necessary industry regulations.

Labor Relations

Serve as team leader in negotiations of IATSE union agreements and fosters collaborative and respectful relationships with various unions with which Pittsburgh Opera has agreements.

Facilities and Warehouse Management

Oversees company’s warehouse and shop operations. Works with senior management to manage and oversee the Bitz Opera Factory (Pittsburgh Opera’s headquarters) including ongoing maintenance, facility management, and equipment purchases.

Leadership

Fosters a team based, problem-solving culture, and promotes an inclusive, respectful work environment that advances the company’s vision. Collaborates with other senior managers and Pittsburgh Opera staff to provide support for outreach events, fundraising activities and special events presented at the company’s headquarters.

Job Requirements

Minimum of 5 years of experience as Director of Production, Production Manager, or related production experience in opera.

Demonstrated supervisory experience, ability to budget and prepare new productions, and running large scale productions.

The ideal candidate will bring a collaborative, solution-oriented approach and brings effective and proven skills in oral and written communication, team building, organization, and analytics.

Excellent computer skills with MS Office and project management programs.

Experience working with union crews and collective bargaining agreements.

Experience with sound and lighting equipment and setting up equipment for events.

Ability to lift and carry material weighing 25-50 pounds and to work evenings and weekends.

Commitment to Pittsburgh Opera’s mission, values, and ethical standards.

Undergraduate degree in a relevant field, or equivalent combination of education and professional experience.

This is a full-time exempt that requires a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends.

Starting salary range for this position is $105,00 to $115,000 annually commensurate with experience and demonstrated skills and is negotiable within that range.

Desired Start Date

October 1, 2026

Pay Range

$105,000 - $115,000 Annual

The Pittsburgh Opera is a tax exempt 501(c)(3) organization and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Application Deadline

September 25, 2026

Kristin Gatch, Assistant to the General Director