Technicians Application Info

Our Production Staff is comprised of experienced designers, technicians and craftspeople from regional theatres, opera companies and universities from around the world. Over 60% of our staff are former Santa Fe Opera technical apprentices. Staff compensation varies depending on the responsibilities of the position and the experience of the applicant. Staff housing is arranged by the Opera and a small housing deduction is deducted weekly from your base pay. All staff receive financial assistance towards the cost of travel to and from Santa Fe.

Working alongside our professional staff are apprentice technicians from colleges and theatre conservatories across the country. The Apprentice Program for Theatre Technicians, established in 1965, is an intermediate to advanced training program. The program offers instruction and practical experience in stage operations, properties, audio/video, costumes, production/music services, wigs and makeup, electrics and scenic art. Apprentices receive an hourly wage plus applicable overtime, and financial assistance with the cost of travel to and from Santa Fe. Apprentice housing is located in Opera-owned apartments in downtown Santa Fe, and a small housing deduction is deducted weekly from their base pay.

The festival season schedule is very demanding and challenging, but is also very rewarding. Due to the outdoor setting of our venue, technical rehearsals must begin after sunset, and therefore extend late into the night.

In addition to the daily work responsibilities, throughout the summer season we offer Director and Designer presentations, master classes, specialty workshops, and resume and portfolio reviews. Once all of the season’s repertory productions have opened, technical apprentices participate in the production of two fully staged opera scenes programs featuring Santa Fe Opera’s apprentice singers. We also host a Portfolio Fair at which seasonal employees can share their work with fellow employees, designers, industry professionals and other invited guests. Those participating in the Portfolio Fair should arrive at the beginning of the summer with a fully prepared portfolio, as there is very limited time to work on it once you arrive.