Organization: John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Location: Washington, DC, USA (On-site)
Schedule: Full-time
Compensation: $75,000 – $84,000 per year, commensurate with experience, plus a comprehensive benefits package
About the Kennedy Center
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts serves as the nation’s premier cultural hub and a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy. Situated on the banks of the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., the Center hosts performances across all artistic genres and is home to its artistic affiliate, the National Symphony Orchestra.
The Kennedy Center fosters a culture of belonging, diversity, and professional growth. Employees’ unique perspectives and skills inform how the workplace remains safe, transparent, and supportive. The Center is an equal opportunity employer, committed to non-discrimination based on race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, or any legally protected category.
Mission: As America’s performing arts center, the Kennedy Center connects leading artists with audiences worldwide, creating opportunities for discovery, engagement, and inspiration across all communities.
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Why Work Here
Full-time employees enjoy a competitive total rewards package, including:
- Discounted tickets for performances
- Retirement plan with matching contributions (after one year)
- Eligibility for Public Student Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)
- Commuter benefits, including pre-tax parking and WMATA SmartBenefits
- Annual leave, sick leave, and personal days are available immediately
- 13 paid holidays annually
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage with FSA and HSA options, including paid FMLA
Position Overview
The Orchestra Personnel Manager oversees operations of the Kennedy Center Opera House Orchestra (KCOHO) under two collective bargaining agreements. This role coordinates day-to-day activities, serves as an HR liaison, manages orchestral staffing, and provides guidance to musicians while maintaining productive and supportive relationships.
This position requires flexibility, including evening and weekend hours and on-call availability for service days, approximately 48 weeks per year. The Personnel Manager collaborates closely with orchestra management, librarians, conductors, and administrative staff to ensure seamless orchestral operations.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
Orchestra Administration
- Lead full orchestra projects across Ballet, Opera, Concerts, and Musical Theater.
- Enforce AFM agreements for local and visiting artists, stage managers, and stagehands.
- Hire, onboard, and process HR paperwork for tenured, extra, and substitute musicians.
- Manage seating assignments, string rotations, and instrumentation documentation.
- Prepare engagement materials, including memos, schedules, and stage door lists.
- Maintain and update the orchestra’s online portal
Payroll and HR Coordination
- Prepare and verify weekly payroll, including double time and move-up pay
- Approve and track all types of leave for orchestra members
- Facilitate HR and payroll processes, including benefits enrollment and inquiries
- Maintain accurate musician contact records, seniority lists, and post-notices
Performance and Rehearsal Support
- Attend rehearsals and performances to monitor operations, breaks, and attendance.
- Act as liaison between musicians and management to address issues promptly
- Coordinate instrument rentals, maintenance, and logistical support
Auditions and Hiring
- Administer auditions for orchestra vacancies, including coordination of candidates, accompanists, and staff.
- Contract substitute musicians for planned or last-minute engagements
Project Development
- Develop initiatives to improve morale, efficiency, and operational effectiveness.
- Assist in strategic planning for orchestral personnel management
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Required Candidate Profile
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in arts management, music, orchestra management, or related field, or equivalent experience
- Minimum 2–3 years in orchestra management or comparable performing arts production roles
- Musical background preferred, with knowledge of opera, ballet, musical theater, and symphonic repertoire.
- Experience with unionized environments and collective bargaining agreements is advantageous.
Skills & Competencies
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and supervisory skills
- Strong organizational and record-keeping abilities
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, Access)
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and remain composed under pressure
- Collaborative mindset with a positive interpersonal approach and sense of humor
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed
- Must be willing to work on-site in the DMV area; relocation assistance not provided
Additional Information
- Requires physical activity, including lifting and transporting music and equipment
- The work environment ranges from office-based tasks to active on-stage and backstage operations.
- Must maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment with sensitive personnel data
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How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications through the Kennedy Center Careers Page.
Please follow the online application instructions carefully to ensure your application is considered.