Job Opportunity: Production Manager – National Symphony Orchestra

Location: Washington, D.C. (On-site, Kennedy Center)
Salary: $72,000–$82,000/year (commensurate with experience)
Full-time + Benefits |  Apply by submitting a cover letter

About The Kennedy Center

“I am certain that after the dust of centuries has passed… we… will be remembered not for victories or defeats… but for our contribution to the human spirit.” — President John F. Kennedy

The Kennedy Center is the nation’s performing arts center and a living memorial to President Kennedy. Located on the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., it is home to the Washington National Opera, the National Symphony Orchestra, and hosts hundreds of performances each year across genres.

We are a workplace committed to diversity, belonging, and empowerment, welcoming candidates of all backgrounds and ensuring a safe, transparent, and inclusive work culture.

⭐ Why Work With Us

• Discounted ticket offers for staff

• Employer-matched retirement plan (after 1 year)

• PSLF-qualified employer (Public Service Loan Forgiveness)

• Health, dental, vision, FSA/HSA, and paid FMLA

• Pre-tax commuter benefits (WMATA SmartBenefits & Parking)

• Paid vacation, personal and sick leave from day one

• 11 paid holidays annually

• And yes, we have fun — check out our 2024 Dance Day staff video!

Position Summary

Reporting to the Senior Manager of Production & Orchestra Operations, the Production Manager supports and implements the production needs of all NSO concerts and tours. This includes managing logistics for classical, pops, education, family, and community concerts, ensuring seamless production, and fostering a professional performance environment for musicians and crew.

Key Responsibilities

Concert & Production Management

• Coordinate logistics for NSO rehearsals and concerts (on-site and local venues)

• Hire/manage production contractors (lighting, sound, recording, etc.)

• Stage manage and call cues when required

• Prepare production documents: technical schedules, stage plots, event sheets

• Handle backline/instrument/equipment rentals and tuning schedules

• Liaise with Kennedy Center staff and crews on technical elements

• Ensure safety and adherence to union rules (IATSE, AFM, etc.)

Tour Management

• Advance technical/logistical requirements for domestic & international NSO tours

• Manage cargo, freight, and border documents (including carnets)

• Travel with NSO crew as needed (approx. 15%)

• Oversee production for national events (e.g., Capitol concerts on Memorial Day, July 4, Labor Day)

Orchestra Equipment & Venue Maintenance

• Oversee care of pianos, organs, celestas, and hall acoustics

• Manage annual Casavant organ maintenance

• Customize and manage touring trunks and backstage logistics

Qualifications

✅ Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Music, Theater, or related field

• Minimum 5 years of production experience with an orchestra or performing arts org

• Ability to read music

• Strong communication, leadership, and time management skills

• Familiarity with union rules (AFM, IATSE)

• Proficient in Microsoft Office; ability to learn VISIO, OPAS, ArtsVision

• Budgeting and scheduling experience

• Valid U.S. driver’s license; ability to travel and work evenings/weekends

➕ Preferred

• Experience in orchestral touring

• Experience coordinating large-scale, multi-venue productions

• Personal vehicle (a plus, not required)