Ryan Opera Center Intern

REPORTS TO: Manager, Ryan Opera Center

TERM: May-October 2026 (Preferable)

HOURS: 15-20 hours per week (In-Office)

Through artistic excellence coupled with innovative, relevant programming; initiatives to connect with and grow new audiences; engagement with communities to ignite creativity across Chicago; and a modernized Opera House that is the setting for truly great experiences, Lyric is leading the advancement of opera. This collaborative vision will deliver ever more exciting, thought-provoking and inclusive audience and community experiences – while increasing the gravitational pull of our art form, our company, and our city.

The Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center (ROC), Lyric’s professional development program, strives to identify and nurture the best emerging artists of the next generation – and to provide its Ensemble members with the highest possible level of experience in training & performance activities and professional enhancement offerings – all in an effort to set the stage so that Ensemble members are in the best position to create and take advantage of opportunities for leading successful operatic careers.

The ROC intern will assist with all departmental administrative functions, program operations, and collaborations with various departments across Lyric, with a particular focus on the ROC audition process and Ensemble scheduling.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Perform general clerical duties, including filing, copying, office organization and inventory.
• Assist with ROC application processing and tracking, applicant communications, and audition day assistance.
• Aid in ROC schedule construction and maintenance.
• Assist with all Ryan Opera Center department performances and special projects as needed.
• Assist with administrative work in budget management and other office functions.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:

• Pursuing a graduate degree, preferably in arts administration, music or theatre, or equivalent experience. Recent graduates (up to one year post-graduation) accepted as well.
• Strong interest in an arts administration career.
• Previous experience in an administrative office environment is preferred.
• Working knowledge of opera and classical music.
• Computer literacy is required, with an emphasis in Word, Excel, and Google Suite.
• Superior organizational skills and a genuine passion for order.
• Must be detail-oriented and able to handle multiple tasks proficiently.
• Familiarity with Young Artist Programs and YAP Tracker is beneficial.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills are a must.

WORK CONDITIONS:

• Sitting for extended periods.
• Ability to operate a computer and to handle other office equipment.
• Ability to occasionally assist with evening or weekend performances and functions.
• Fast-paced environment.
• Preferred In-Office Schedule: Three-four hours per day, Monday-Friday.

COMPENSATION:

Job Classification: Part-Time, Non-Exempt Intern

Hourly Rate: $16.60 + Weekly $30 Travel Stipend

Application deadline: March 26, 2026 (5:00pm CT)

Lyric Opera of Chicago offers intern benefits including professional development and department workshops, complimentary tickets, and other events.

Lyric Opera of Chicago is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, parental status, socio-economic status, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. We strongly encourage individuals of all backgrounds to apply.