Preseason Artist (Chautauqua Arts Education and Chautauqua Opera Company & Conservatory)/Seasonal Em

The Chautauqua Opera Company & Conservatory season will consist of fully produced productions, workshops and ancillary events. To learn more about the season and company, visit opera.chq.org.  We build our season around the American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) Safety Guidelines in addition to following the guidelines of the CDC, IATSE, and USA.

This contract is specific to work in the Chautauqua Arts Education Opera in the Schools Program. This program includes up to a total of 16 engagements with schools, including an in-class lesson component and a performance at each engagement.

About Your Compensation

Compensation for this position is $24.75 for 40 hours a week up to 2.5 weeks.

Round-trip air travel reimbursement of up to $550 is also provided. If flying into Buffalo International Airport, transportation will be provided to and from the airport.

About Your Work Day

• To participate as a core member Chautauqua Arts Education and Chautauqua Opera Company & Conservatory team and adhere to the daily schedule as determined from early to late May.


• To support the touring community productions as assigned and prepare all assignments in advance of arrival.  


• To work alongside company management, and departmental heads across the organization as valued team member.  


• To assist with various ancillary events on the Chautauqua Institution grounds (both in-person and digitally) as requested.  


• To arrive on-time for all rehearsals, coaching, events and fittings and with proper attire.  


• To act as a representative of the company and our season on Social Media, on the grounds and through various interviews.

About the Referral Program

Chautauqua Institution’s Referral Bonus Program is a talent solution to recruit, develop, and retain a diverse workforce that encompasses all the skills and experience necessary to deliver on our goals and objectives. Chautauqua Institution will provide a $500 referral bonus (less taxes) for active employees referring a new candidate who is hired and remains employed for at least 90-days from the first physical date of work. In the case of seasonal positions working less than 6-months, the new candidate must remain actively employed for at least 30-days from the first physical date of work and until the closing date of the season. The closing date of the season is the last Sunday in August.

About Your Schedule

Chautauqua Institution and Chautauqua Hotel Company offer flexible schedules, full and part-time, for seasonal employment during summer operations starting annually each June and concluding in August.  Seasonal employment may be available earlier (pre-season) and beyond season (post-season) based on business needs and candidate availability.  Schedules typically include evenings, weekends, and/or holidays as a requirement.  While you will confirm your final schedule with management at the time of an interview and offer of employment, you should generally anticipate the following schedule options for this position: 

Will be scheduled to work an average of 40-hours/week.  Scheduled hours will include evenings, weekends, and holidays based on business needs.

About Living on the Grounds

This position offers employer-provided housing and parking.  Housing includes a private bedroom, shared living space and shared kitchen facilities. Residency starts in early May and ends late May.

About Chautauqua Institution

Chautauqua Institution is a not-for-profit global convener of dialogue on the most significant issues of the day through engagement across four pillars of the arts, education, religion, and recreation. The Chautauqua community is located on the shores of Chautauqua Lake in southwestern New York State and comes alive each summer with a unique mix of visual and performing arts, lectures, interfaith worship/programs, and recreational activities.  Chautauqua Institution owns and operates Chautauqua Hotel Company, a comprehensive hotel, food & beverage, conferencing, and events organization. 

Our Commitment to IDEA

Chautauqua Institution values Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) as a priority in our strategic plan, 150 Forward. One of our five core values is “The dignity and contributions of all people.”  We are committed to creating conditions where everyone can engage as complete and valued participants in the Chautauqua experience.  The Institution is an equal opportunity employer committed to equitable and inclusive hiring practices.  Applicants and employees will not be discriminated against based on any status protected under federal, state, or local law. We especially welcome applications from those who can demonstrate experience, engagement, and professional expertise in IDEA. 

Joining Our Talent Community

Join our talent community online at CHQ.org/employment.  You are encouraged to learn more about Chautauqua Institution at CHQ.org and view the 150 Forward Strategic Plan at 150fwd.CHQ.org.