
Work With Us
2024 Prop Shop Jobs
If you want to be a part of making the magic of live performance happen, check out our open prop shop positions.
A four-show repertory model keeps things fascinating for the Opera Theatre of Saint Louis (OTSL) Production team. How do we put on four full productions on the same stage at the same time? Well, that’s the magic we need you for. Our production team is a mix of OTSL veterans and young people with emerging talents in production working together and learning from each other. It’s part of our mission to help train and advance the next generation of theatre professionals. Our intimate space holds 987 seats around a ¾ thrust stage and supplies the perfect setting for collaboration. Rehearsals and changeovers give crew members the chance to support, and take part in, this partnership across all fields of production. Problem solvers, curious minds, passionate dreamers, and doers will help bring our 48th season to the stage. Join us, won’t you?
Available Positions
At Opera Theatre of Saint Louis, we value equity, diversity, and mutual respect. We strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, women, people with disabilities, and others who have been historically excluded to apply. Our goal is to be a diverse workforce that is representative of our vibrant community. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
OTSL will not discriminate against employees or applicants on the basis of race, color, religion or belief; national, social, or ethnic origin; age; sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression; physical, mental, or sensory disability; family or parental status; genetic information or characteristics; protected veteran status; or any other protected class under federal, state, or local law. OTSL will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics.
If you need assistance or an accommodation in completing an application, interviewing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please contact (314) 963-4226 or mmyers@opera-stl.org.
Emerson Props Intern
Dates of Employment
04/29/2024 – 06/16/2024 | Somewhat flexible start date
Previous prop building experience a plus. Interns are assigned to assist on projects based on their knowledge, skills, and interest. The Emerson Props Intern assists the whole of the Prop Shop to create the props for all four shows in the season.
Some responsibilities include assisting with the general functions and activities of the Prop Shop, tracking POs, assisting on prop builds, assisting with props transfers, driving to pick up acquisitions or last-minute purchases, and learning from the Artisans and Managers.
The Emerson Props Intern can be assigned periodic night and weekend work as determined by the Props Manager. Physical requirements include repetitive motion, lifting up to 50lb, sitting or standing for long periods of time, and safely using resin, paint, and other volatile compounds.
Use of a personal vehicle in St. Louis is highly likely. Mileage reimbursement available.
$15.25 per hour.
Limited housing is available if needed.
Interviews will begin in January 2024.
Props Artisans
Dates of Employment
04/08/2024 – 06/16/2024 | Somewhat flexible start date
Previous props experience required, with skills in hand prop construction, upholstery, and draperies. Experience with metal working and casting a plus. The Props Artisans are assigned build projects based on their knowledge and skills. They work closely with the Props Manager and Props Supervisors to create the props for all four shows in the season.
Some responsibilities include building props from approved designs in various media, assisting the Props Supervisors and fellow artisans as needed, responding to notes, repairing and restoring items as needed, helping with props transfers, and participating in general shop activities.
Props Artisans can be assigned periodic night and weekend work as determined by the Props Manager. Physical requirements include repetitive motion, lifting up to 50lbs, sitting or standing for long periods of time, safely using resin, paint, and other volatile compounds, and operating moving machinery (sewing machine, 3D printer, etc.)
Use of a personal vehicle in St. Louis is highly likely. Mileage reimbursement available.
Starting at $17.00 per hour.
Limited housing is available if needed.
Interviews will begin in January 2024.