Director of NSO Production and Orchestra Operations at The Kennedy Center

The National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) at The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is seeking a

Director of Production and Orchestra Operations . This is a rare opportunity to shape the behind-the-scenes excellence of one of America’s most renowned orchestras while working at the heart of Washington, DC’s cultural life.

The Legacy of the National Symphony Orchestra
For over five decades, the

National Symphony Orchestra

has captivated audiences locally and internationally. Known for its exceptional artistry, the NSO has built a reputation through celebrated tours, recordings, and broadcasts, as well as a deep commitment to education and community engagement.

Highlights of NSO programming include

A classical subscription series and a lively pops series at the Kennedy Center Concert Hall

National holiday concerts broadcast live from the U.S. Capitol lawn

Summer performances at

Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts

Chamber music presented at the Terrace Theatre and Millennium Stage

Outreach programs such as

NSO In Your Neighborhood

and

NSO Sound Health

Under the leadership of Music Director Gianandrea Noseda, the NSO continues to elevate the standard of symphonic performance in the United States and around the world.

Why the Kennedy Center is a Destination Workplace
The Kennedy Center is more than a stage; it is a

living memorial to President John F. Kennedy

and a global leader in the arts. Employees are empowered to bring their creativity, diverse experiences, and commitment to a collaborative environment.

Eligibility for the

Public Student Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)

Medical, dental, and vision benefits

with

FSA and HSA

options

Paid FMLA ,

sick leave , personal days, and annual leave starting on day one

Eleven

paid holidays each year

Commuter benefits

such as discounted parking and

WMATA SmartBenefits

Fun and engaging staff culture, including events like National Dance Day

The targeted salary range for this role is

$110,000 to $125,000 , commensurate with experience, plus a comprehensive benefits package.

The Role of Director of Production and Orchestra Operations

Supervise the Stage Manager, Assistant Stage Manager, Production Manager, Operations staff, and interns.

Oversee payroll, staffing, and concert production assignments for each season.

Design and monitor

annual and monthly budgets

for production and operations.

Approve expenses and track spending to identify cost‑saving opportunities.

Produce a wide range of programming, including Classical, Pops, Family, and Community concerts.

Handle stage management duties, lighting cues, props, costumes, and organ maintenance.

Serve as Concert Duty Manager to uphold Kennedy Center standards for audience experience.

Touring and Logistics

Organize domestic and international tours, which include travel, visas, and cargo logistics.

Plan and execute off‑site performances across Washington, DC, and beyond.

Coordinate with federal and local agencies for U.S. Capitol concerts.

The ideal candidate brings both artistic insight and operational expertise.

Minimum of

five years

in concert production, with experience in symphony orchestra touring preferred.

Deep knowledge of

orchestral and chamber repertoire .

Proven skills in

budgeting, purchasing, and financial oversight .

Advanced organizational and communication abilities, with the ability to thrive under deadlines.

Proficiency with

Microsoft Office

and willingness to learn systems such as

OPAS and Visio .

Ability to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and travel extensively.

A

valid U.S. driver’s license

and willingness to relocate to the

Washington, DC

area.

Joining the Kennedy Center as

Director of NSO Production and Orchestra Operations

means playing a pivotal role in one of America’s cultural treasures. This is more than a management position—it is a chance to contribute to the enduring legacy of the arts in the nation’s capital and around the world.

If you are a seasoned professional with a passion for music, leadership, and operational excellence, this role invites you to make an impact that resonates far beyond the concert hall.

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