Office of the General Director Intern

REPORTS TO: Executive Assistant, Offices of the General and Music Directors 

TERM: June-December 2026 

HOURS: 25-30 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, company, and city. 

The Office of the General Director (OGD) Intern will support day-to-day executive and administrative operations, including calendar management and general office coordination. In addition, the intern will assist with larger cross-departmental projects such as program binding in partnership with Marketing, maintaining donor and mailing lists in Tess alongside the Development team, and supporting the creation and upkeep of project trackers used throughout the season. This role offers hands-on experience, exposure to multiple departments, and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to key operational initiatives within the Offices of the General and Music Directors. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 
 

Administrative & Office Support: 

• Organize digital and physical files.
• Data entry and database updates (Primarily using Tessitura and Excel spreadsheets).
• Assist in scheduling meetings and dining reservations. 
• Prepare basic spreadsheets for the upcoming season. 
• Answer phones or respond to general emails.

Events & Performances:

• Assist with events involving the General Director, President & CEO and Music Director.
• Prepare attendee lists and event materials.
• Assist with event setup, registration, or follow-up in collaboration with the Development team.
• Track RSVPs, send reminders, and thank-you emails.

Project Support: 

• Assist with ongoing projects in collaboration with the Executive Assistant including Graham Room, program book binding, and holiday cards for 2026 season.
• Track deadlines and project milestones as it pertains to Lyric’s 75th anniversary project.
• Work closely with the Development team on any project collaboration. 
• Test and review materials ahead of 2026/27 season.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS: 

• Open to current undergraduate and graduate students, as well as recent graduates (up to one year post-graduation).
• Background in opera, theatre, or classical music is preferred.
• Interest in opera and arts administration is a plus.
• Previous customer service or office experience preferred. 
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Professional, highly organized, and detail oriented.
• Ability to coordinate multiple projects and tasks simultaneously.
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft and Google Suite including Sheets, Docs, and Google Calendar.

WORK CONDITIONS: 

• Sitting for extended periods. 
• Ability to operate a computer and to handle other office equipment. 
• Ability to occasionally work evening or weekend functions, deployments, or performances. 
• Fast-paced and dynamic environment. 
• Preferred In-Office Schedule: Monday-Friday (occasional evening or weekend function, time would be adjusted accordingly).

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.