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Careers

The Oregon Symphony looks to employ talented, driven, and forward-thinking people to help bring the power of music to hundreds of thousands in and around the Portland community. We welcome anyone with these assets and passions to consider joining our dedicated and innovative team.

Auditions

The Oregon Symphony is not conducting any auditions at this time.

Administrative Employment Opportunities

SUMMARY: The Office Manager is the Oregon Symphony Association’s (OSA) on-site resource for critical operational functions and serves as an assistant to the Vice Presidents. Reporting to the Vice President for Finance and Administration, the Office Manager will be tasked with staffing a variety of office needs for the public and employees as they arise. A highly organized team-player with a “no job too small” attitude will succeed in this role.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

Staffs the front desk to receive deliveries, mail and provide a point of contact for on-site and hybrid employees needing help with:
1. Technology peripherals
2. RingCentral
3. Meeting coordination
4. Supplies procurement
5. Shipping
6. Other needs as they arise
Prepares and processes accounts payable accurately and on time, including:
1. Verifying approval on all invoices and check requests
2. Updating and maintaining vendor database
3. Reconciling vendor & credit card statements
4. Maintaining accounts payable files
5. Maintain contracts in coordination with Finance and Administration Associate
6. Provide insurance certifications when requested
7. Provide ad-hoc reporting from Financial Edge
Tracks credit card expenditures for the organization
Deposit checks into US Bank system via desktop deposit
Oversees facilities management, including:
1. Working with the Pittock Building Management on facilities requests
2. Preparing office / workspaces for new employees
3. Maintains technology inventory and documentation
4. Maintains inventory records for non-resale items
5. Clean-up of outdated furniture and files
6. Fire Inspection compliance
7. Coordinate Organization’s Safety Committee with the Musician Representatives
8. Ensure cleanliness of common spaces including kitchen, conference room and Music Director office (exercise oversight in this area)
Point of contact for office sub-contractor relationships, including:
1. The IT service provider relationships for data and telephone
2. Printers/copier
3. Postage contracts

QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and/or Experience: High School Diploma; basic understanding of non-profit office management and at least two years of related experience preferred.
Language Skills: Ability to write clearly with proper spelling and grammar to produce routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively to donors, Board members, employees, vendors, and others.
Mathematical Skills: Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, percentages, and averages.
Reasoning Ability: Ability to organize systems, coordinate deadlines, handle logistics, interpret instructions provided in writing, orally or in diagram form.
Computer Skills: Ability to use Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint; ability to use or learn quickly the financial software (Financial Edge). Ability to research on the internet.Accurate data entry and attention to detail required.
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations: None required.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Exceptional customer service skills and exquisite attention to detail. Ability to work in a fast paced, multitask, team environment. Knowledge and appreciation of live classical music a plus. Sense of humor is essential.

COMPETENCIES: To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:

Ethics and Professionalism - Treats others with respect and tact; Keeps commitments; Inspires the respect and trust of others; Works with integrity and works ethically; Maintains confidentiality; Keeps emotions under control; Reacts well under pressure; Accepts responsibility for own actions.
Customer Service - Manages difficult or emotional employee situations; Responds promptly to coworkers’ and patron needs; Responds to requests for service and assistance; Meets commitments.
Teamwork - Balances team and individual responsibilities; Exhibits confidence in self and others; Exhibits objectivity and openness to others' views; Gives and welcomes feedback; Contributes to building a positive team spirit; Puts success of team above own interests; Supports everyone's efforts to succeed. Establishes and maintains effective relations; Offers assistance and support to co-workers.
Organizational Support - Follows policies and procedures; Completes administrative tasks correctly and on time; Supports organization's goals and values; Displays orientation to profitability and contributes to profits and revenue; Shows respect and sensitivity for cultural differences; Promotes a harassment-free environment; Observes safety and security procedures; Reports potentially unsafe conditions
Dependability - Is consistently at work and on time; Follows instructions, responds to management direction; Takes responsibility for own actions; Keeps commitments; Completes tasks on time or notifies appropriate person with an alternate plan; Plans in advance for time off.
Motivation and Initiative – Demonstrates persistence and overcomes obstacles; Measures self against standard of excellence; Takes calculated risks to accomplish goals; Volunteers readily; Undertakes self-development activities; Seeks increased responsibilities; Asks for and offers help when needed.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand and walk. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include the ability to use a computer monitor and to read standard print documents.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this position, the employee is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts such as computers, copiers, and postage machine. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

This position is a fully on-site role at the Symphony’s office in downtown Portland.

The Oregon Symphony is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all facets of the organization. We seek to develop a diverse candidate pool and welcome nominations and applications from all qualified candidates regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, or national origin.

Position is open until filled. No phone calls please.

Download Position Description as PDF

SUMMARY: The Assistant Stage Manager (ASM) supports the Stage Manager in the day-to-day stage operations for all Oregon Symphony rehearsals and performances. The ASM works collaboratively with stagehands, operations team, musicians, guest artists and conductors to ensure optimal backstage and onstage environments meeting the needs of all performers. The ASM along with the Stage Manager is responsible for the preparation and appearance of the stage, and substitutes for the Stage Manager as needed.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

1. Is present at all orchestra services and presentations, as scheduled by the Stage Manager. The Assistant Stage Manager may at times be scheduled in place of the Stage Manager with the approval of the Director of Operations. Assists the Stage Manager to oversee logistics necessary for rehearsals and performances, pre-concert lectures, auditions and related events.
2. Assists the Stage Manager to direct, implement, and coordinate the staging, set-ups and strikes of the Orchestra according to the daily schedule, Collective Bargaining Agreement requirements, and needs of the OSA, conductor, orchestra and artists. Manages necessary set changes in collaboration with the Stage Manager, Concert Manager, Orchestra Personnel Manager, Conductors, and Guest Artists, sound and light technicians, stagehands and musicians.
3. Ensures the safety and comfort of the performers and audience (as related to stage activity). Coordinates and monitors hall safety and environmental functions with the on-site engineer in all venues. Reports all hall problems and resolutions to the appropriate venue personnel, Stage Manager, Concert Manager and Orchestra Personnel Manager.
4. Accommodates the needs of orchestra personnel, conductors, and guest artists in a timely and cordial fashion. Assists musicians with individual stage, equipment, and lighting and sound needs as appropriate at all services.
5. Will at times direct the activities of stagehands and of the sound and light technicians in place of the Stage Manager. At these times, directs IATSE stagehands during services and ensures that all calls are conducted in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement between PCPA and IATSE.
6. When not assisting the stage manager will work as a member of the crew.
7. Assists the Stage Manager to purchases, store, maintain, inventory, and transport orchestra equipment. Rents necessary instruments and equipment as authorized by the event producer.
8. Rents necessary vehicles for instrument and/or equipment transport and transports rental equipment as needed. Drives the truck as needed. Accompanies tour producer on pre-tour site visits, as needed.
9. In coordination with, or in the absence of, the Stage Manager insures that the concert stage set-up is visually attractive and physically correct. Directs stage operations for those performances, calling the sequence of each performance, insuring that concerts start on time and run smoothly.
10. Drives, travels with, or precedes the Orchestra equipment truck to all services in and out of town, as scheduled.
11. Works closely with the Stage Manager and Concert Manager to ensure safe, efficient, cost-effective and smooth operations; assisting in the creation and implementation of procedures for timely and effective performance-related requirements.
12. Attends staff production meetings, as scheduled. Serves as a member of the Artistic Operations Team of the OSA.
13. Performs other duties as assigned by the Stage Manager and the Director of Operations.

Education and/or Experience – Three years' experience with stage operations and a working knowledge of stage equipment, maintenance of same, as well as sound and lighting operations. Prior management experience a plus. High School or Equivalent mandatory, some college preferred.
Language Skills - Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively to customers or employees of organization.
Mathematical Skills - Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals in order to accurately report and verify stagehands' and crew payrolls.
Reasoning Ability - Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
Computer Skills - To perform this job successfully, an individual should have knowledge of, or ability to quickly learn software; Microsoft Office suite and Visio are required skills.
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations - Valid Oregon or Washington driver's license (non-commercial); good driving record. Ability to use own, properly insured, reliable vehicle for the job is a plus (mileage reimbursed).

OTHER QUALIFICATIONS: Must be able to work evenings and weekends. Travel required when orchestra is on tour. Proof of current Covid-19 vaccination status mandatory.

REPRESENTATIONS: This position is included in the bargaining unit represented by IATSE Local 28.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Acute safety consciousness and alert, quick reactions necessary to handle unexpected and potentially hazardous situations; ability to work effectively and diplomatically with diverse personalities, including orchestra musicians, ability to direct stage personnel with authority, efficiency and professionalism, represents the OSA with the highest standards of professionalism at all times, including the secure handling of equipment; good communication and excellent organizational skills; positive, confident manner; sense of humor.

COMPETENCIES: To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies

Problem Solving - Gathers and analyzes information skillfully; Anticipates and resolves problems in a timely manner; Uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics.
Project Management - Prioritizes and plans work activities; Develops work flows and procedures; Coordinates projects; Completes projects on time and budget; Uses time efficiently; Plans for additional resources; Sets goals and objectives.
Customer Service - Manages difficult or emotional customer (internal and external) situations; Responds promptly to customer needs; Solicits feedback to improve service; Responds to requests for service and assistance; Meets commitments.
Interpersonal Skills - Focuses on solving conflict; Maintains confidentiality; Listens to others without interrupting; Remains open to others' ideas.
Communication - Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations; Communicates changes promptly and effectively; Supports those affected by change; Listens and gets clarification; Responds well to questions; Participates in meetings; Presents numerical data effectively; Able to read and interpret written information.
Teamwork - Balances team and individual responsibilities; Contributes to building a positive team spirit; Puts success of team above own interests; Supports everyone's efforts to succeed; Generates suggestions for improving work; Works well in group problem solving situations.
Leadership - Exhibits confidence in self and others; Leads by positive example; effectively influences actions and opinions of others, Inspires respect and trust.
Managing People and Delegation - Takes responsibility for subordinates' activities; Fosters quality focus in others; Improves processes and services; Delegates work assignments; Matches the responsibility to the person; Sets expectations and monitors delegated tasks.
Cost Consciousness - Understands financial implications of decisions; Works within approved budget; develops and implements cost saving measures; Conserves organizational resources.
Organizational Support - Follows policies and procedures; Completes administrative tasks correctly and on time; Shows respect and sensitivity for cultural differences; promotes a harassment-free environment.
Judgment - Supports and explains reasoning for decisions; Includes appropriate people in decision-making process; Makes timely decisions.
Ethics and Professionalism - Treats everyone with respect; Works with integrity and ethically; Responds well under pressure; Accepts responsibility for own actions; Keeps commitments.
Quality and Quantity - Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; Measures self against standard of excellence; Looks for ways to improve and promote quality; Meets productivity standards; Completes work in timely manner; Applies feedback to improve performance; Works quickly.
Safety and Security - Observes safety and security procedures; Reports potentially unsafe conditions; Uses equipment and materials properly.
Adaptability - Adapts to changes in the work environment; Manages competing demands; Able to deal with change, delays, or unexpected events.
Dependability - Is consistently at work and on time; Follows instructions, responds to management direction; Commits to long hours of work when necessary to reach goals; Ensures work responsibilities are covered when absent; Arrives at meetings and appointments on time.
Initiative - Looks for and takes advantage of opportunities; Strives to continuously build knowledge and skills; Demonstrates persistence and overcomes obstacles.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to lift and safely move orchestra and stage equipment; finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms and talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand, walk and smell. The employee is occasionally required to sit, climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must be able to lift and/or move up to 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions; moving mechanical parts; fumes or airborne particles; outside weather conditions and risk of electrical shock. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

This position requires work onsite at the office and the concert hall.

To apply please submit a cover letter and resume to careers@orsymphony.org. No phone inquiries, please. Position is open until filled.

Download Position Description as PDF

If you are interested in applying to a posted administrative job opening, please submit a cover letter and resume to careers@orsymphony.org. No phone inquiries, please. All submissions will be held in confidence.