Manager of Orchestra Personnel at Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra – Cincinnati, Ohio

The Manager of Orchestra Personnel supports the administrative and operational functions of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra’s (CSO) personnel office. This position coordinates the daily management of musician personnel, including hiring substitute and extra players, preparing rosters and rotation schedules, monitoring attendance and compliance, and assisting with payroll processing. The role also manages communications, supports audition planning, and contributes to tour and run-out logistics. The Manager of Orchestra Personnel is expected to maintain professionalism, accuracy, and confidentiality while supporting positive working relationships with musicians and staff. This position works closely with the Director of Orchestra Personnel to ensure alignment with organizational policies, collective bargaining agreements, and CSO standards.

Responsibilities:

Musician Management

• Hire substitute and extra musicians (advance and emergency).
• Attend orchestra services (including nights/weekends) to record attendance, monitor compliance, and handle inquiries.
• Create, prepare, and publish musician rosters.
• Manage woodwind, brass, and percussion casting assignments with CSO Principals.
• Oversee string musician rotation schedules.

Communication & Coordination

• Plan and organize CSO auditions, maintain applications, communicate schedules, engage audition staff, and manage day-of operations.
• Distribute schedules, memos, and announcements via email, OPAS Online, and Orchestra Board.
• Process time-off requests in consultation with the Director of Orchestra Personnel.
• Serve as staff liaison for the musician advocate program.

Administrative Duties

• Assist with orchestra payroll preparation and act as primary backup for payroll reporting.
• Manage wardrobe assignments, mailboxes, and lockers.

Event & Tour Support

• Assist with run-outs, regional Pops, and other off-site services; represent management on musician buses.
• Prepare for domestic and international tours, compile/distribute packets, and coordinate returned information.

Additional Responsibilities

• Provide employee relations assistance in coordination with Human Resources.
• Reflect the CSO’s mission, vision, and values in your work as well as supporting a respectful organizational culture.
• Other duties as assigned.

Reports to: Director of Orchestra Personnel

• 2-3 years of experience in orchestra personnel management or equivalent.
• Prior orchestra experience and ability to read music.
• Demonstrated critical thinking, problem-solving, and project planning skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle issues professionally.
• Experience with OPAS, or like system.
• Availability for frequent nights and weekends.

Employee Benefits We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being, flexibility, and professional growth. This includes generous PTO, 12 weeks of fully paid parental leave, employer contributions to both an HSA and 401(k), affordable health and dental coverage, free mental health support services, annual incentive compensation opportunities, dedicated professional development funds for all employees, and flexible work arrangements.