Summary:
Des Moines Metro Opera is a major summer opera festival located in Indianola, IA. The company produces 3-4 new productions each season in a summer repertory schedule, presented within the intimate 467-seat theatre at the Blank Performing Arts Center. Our 53rd season includes Wagner’s The Flying Dutchman, Janáček’s The Cunning Little Vixen, and Stravinsky’s The Rake’s Progress.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities:
• Program and operate a Gio @ 5 lighting desk for a lighting rig including 30+ Martin Mac Encore Performance CLDs, Lustrs 2, Chroma Q Colorforce 2, and 200+ conventional lights
• Train electrics staff and interns to run the console during shows
o This position is not responsible for operating the board during the run of shows
• Be responsible for programming of three shows in rep during technical rehearsals and dress rehearsals
• Coordinate the console setup along with the Lighting Supervisor and Head Electrician
• Work alongside Lighting Designers, Head Electrician, Lighting Supervisor, and an electrics team of five
• Advise on solutions for programming and lighting technical problems
• Assist in the archiving of shows and the completion of lighting paperwork
Dates of Employment:
Friday, June 13 – Friday, July 4, 2025.
Compensation:
$1,100/week during the residency, overtime after 50 hours at a rate of $26.40/hour
$300 travel stipend to be paid on arrival.
DMMO will provide a single bedroom in an air conditioned two-bedroom apartment or a studio hotel apartment during the residency.
Qualifications and Skills
Any Combination of education and experience providing the required skill and knowledge for successful performance would be qualifying. Typical qualifications would be equivalent to:
• Proficient in programming on ETC family consoles
• Opera and rep. production experience preferred
• Extensive experience with DMX, Ethernet, and other networking protocols
• Ability to work in a fast paced environment
• Minimum BA/BFA in Theatre or equivalent professional experience
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Proven leadership ability
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions
• Ability to lift 50 pounds unassisted or with the help of a team
• Work includes periods of sitting, working in low light, and climbing stairs/ladders
Application Process:
Submit resume including 3 references and a cover letter via email with the subject line “Lighting Programmer” to:
Production@dmmo.org
Deadline:
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Applicant screening process to begin immediately.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Des Moines Metro Opera celebrates diversity and inclusion. We do not discriminate against any employee or job applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, creed, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, disability, age, veteran status, political affiliation or philosophy. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.