Production Assistant (Temporary)

About The Kennedy Center

“I am certain that after the dust of centuries has passed over our cities, we, too, will be remembered not for victories or defeats in battle or in politics, but for our contribution to the human spirit.” – President John F. Kennedy

The Kennedy Center is the nation’s cultural center and living memorial to President John F. Kennedy. Located on the banks of the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., the Center presents performances across all genres, and is also home to artistic affiliates Washington National Opera and National Symphony Orchestra. 

At the Kennedy Center, we strive to foster belonging and empowerment at work. We are able to advance our mission because of our committed and passionate employees. We are fortunate to be able to leverage their diverse perspectives, life experiences and skills to inform how our workplace can be a safe, transparent, and replenishing community. The Kennedy Center is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant based on race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition, or any other basis protected by law. 

Mission Statement: As the nation's performing arts center, and a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy, we are a leader for the arts across America and around the world, reaching and connecting with artists, inspiring and educating communities. We welcome all to create, experience, learn about, and engage with the arts. 

Pay Details

The Kennedy Center strives to design equitable compensation programs. The projected pay rate for this position is $20.00 per hour. This is the targeted pay rate for this role at the time of posting. This pay rate may be modified in the future. 

Job Description

The Production Assistant is a member of the production staff team and assists in managing WNO rehearsals and performances. This non-union paid position is ideal for those with a background in Stage Management and an interest in pursuing a career in the field, but who have little professional experience at a large company. This is an exciting opportunity to work with internationally known singers, directors, conductors, and production staff while performing at the Kennedy Center in the nation’s capital.

WNO seeks a Production Assistant for each of the following production periods:

• Production 1: September 22-November 2, 2025
• Production 2: October 13-November 22, 2025
• Production 3: November 17-December 15, 2025
• Production 4: February 9-March 22, 2026
• Production 5: March 9-March 29, 2026
• Production 6: April 8-May 23, 2026

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain rehearsal records including sign-in and log coordination/distribution, call board set-up and maintenance, and archiving.
• Assist with rehearsal room management (i.e. tracking attendance, setting up rehearsal room, support the AGMA Stage Management Team in the running of rehearsal)
• Assist with technical rehearsals, including, but not limited to, light walking.
• Other duties as assigned.

Key Qualifications

• 1-2 years of experience in performing arts, opera preferred
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in performing arts preferred
• Must be able to work non-traditional schedule including late evenings and weekends, a six-day work-week schedule, and often work beyond 40 hours/week as needed.
• Passion for the performing arts
• Ability to read music
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite
• Candidate must be local or willing to relocate to the DMV area. Relocation assistance is not provided. 

Additional Information

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to communicate in person and on the telephone.  The employee is frequently required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel in order to operate computer keyboard, office equipment, and other essential tasks.  The employee is frequently required to sit, stand, walk, bend, stoop, crouch, and reach with hands and arms.  This position occasionally lifts, carries, or otherwise moves and positions objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
• The noise level in the work environment is occasionally loud, based on rehearsal and/or performance elements.
• The work environment is occasionally poorly lit, based on rehearsal and/or performance elements.
• Travel may be required between the Kennedy Center and WNO Studio in Takoma, DC.