Production Assistant

About Choral Arts Society of Washington

The Choral Arts Society of Washington is a Grammy Award-winning symphonic chorus committed to inspiring awe through the power of choral music. Established in 1965 and currently under Artistic Director Marie Bucoy-Calavan, this 130-voice chorus performs regularly with renowned orchestras such as the National Symphony Orchestra and international ensembles. The organization is notable for its cultural diplomacy, community engagement, and collaborations worldwide.

Position Overview

We are seeking a detail-focused and highly organized part-time Production Assistant to support the smooth operation of our rehearsals, performances, and special events. Reporting to the Chorus Manager and collaborating with the Artistic Operations Manager, this role offers hands-on involvement in production logistics, music library management, backstage support, and administrative duties within a dynamic performing arts setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate logistics for all performances and events including setup, strike, and venue restoration.
• Manage load-in and load-out of orchestra equipment, staging, technical gear, and production materials.
• Provide backstage support during rehearsals and performances, act as a runner, facilitate communication among staff, artists, and venue crew, and troubleshoot issues.
• Take on show runner duties during concerts as needed and operate supertitles when required.
• Assist the Artistic Operations Manager in managing artist and guest hospitality by preparing dressing rooms and hospitality spaces and supporting visiting artists’ needs.
• Organize and maintain the music library, prepare music for distribution, track inventory, and archive choral and orchestral materials.
• Support chorus operations by managing records, rehearsal sign-ins, annual singer documentation, and communication for chorus reminders and logistics.
• Edit and upload rehearsal videos, maintain digital archives, assist with data entry and document preparation.
• Serve as liaison to assigned volunteer service teams, coordinating communications and support for their activities.
• Contribute to special projects and maintain a positive, collaborative environment among all participants.

Qualifications

• Excellent organizational and time management capabilities enabling handling of multiple projects with meticulous attention to detail.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills and ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Music literacy with the ability to read scores and familiarity with Google Workspace and Microsoft Office tools.
• Physical ability to lift and move items weighing around 35 pounds and stamina for standing extended periods during rehearsals and events.
• Preferred experience includes performing arts administration, concert production, music library work, volunteer and artist coordination, and digital media management.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Pass completion of background check prior to employment.
• Working hours include part-time schedule with an average of 20 hours per week, requiring presence during Tuesday evening rehearsals (7:30-10:30 pm), concerts, special events, and occasional additional rehearsals.
• Combination of office, rehearsal room, and active backstage environments requiring mobility and endurance.

Compensation

The hourly pay rate ranges from $24.04 to $26.00 based on experience.