The Usher Staff at the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra plays a vital role in ensuring an exceptional experience for patrons while maintaining a safe and welcoming environment. Ushers are responsible for seating guests, distributing programs, monitoring audience areas, and assisting with safety and emergency procedures. This role requires professionalism, excellent customer service, and the ability to respond calmly and effectively in a variety of situations.

Duties & Responsibilities: (Use action verbs and quantify where possible. Focus on key responsibilities, not every single task.)

• Greet patrons and assist with seating in assigned areas.
• Distribute programs and other event materials.
• Monitor assigned section for cleanliness, safety concerns, and lost & found items.
• Enforce house rules in a courteous and professional manner.
• Remain at assigned post throughout the event, except during scheduled breaks.
• Assist patrons with disabilities in accordance with accessibility procedures.
• Attend pre-event usher meetings and required trainings.
• Maintain knowledge of venue layout and emergency evacuation procedures.
• Assist with pre-show setup and post-show breakdown as directed.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Minimum Qualifications: (Essential requirements candidates must meet to be considered, e.g., education, specific years of experience, certifications, software proficiency.)

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Proof of eligibility to work in the United States.
• Must be available to work at least 10 hours per pay period (biweekly), including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to:
  • Stand for long periods of time.
  • Repeatedly climb stairs, ramps, and inclines/declines.
  • Lift up to 50 lbs. waist-high and assist with furniture setup.
  • Bend, stretch, reach, and kneel without restriction.
  • Work in varying environmental conditions (noise, crowds, dim/low lighting).
• Strong verbal communication skills and ability to interact effectively with diverse audiences.
• Professional, neat, and well-groomed appearance in accordance with BSO uniform requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience providing customer service in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience working in a theater, performing arts center, or similar venue.
• Familiarity with accessibility and guest assistance procedures.
• Experience using two-way radios (training available if not experienced).
• Demonstrated ability to remain calm and professional in emergencies.
• Appreciation for the arts and commitment to enhancing the patron experience.

Benefits & Perks:

• Exclusive BSO Perks: Complimentary or discounted tickets to BSO performances.

About the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra

For over a century, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra (BSO) has been recognized as one of America’s leading orchestras and one of Maryland’s most significant cultural institutions. The orchestra is internationally renowned and locally admired for its innovation, performances, recordings, and educational outreach initiatives, including OrchKids.

The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra performs annually for more than 275,000 people throughout the State of Maryland. Since 1982, the BSO has performed at the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall in Baltimore, and since 2005, with the opening of The Music Center at Strathmore in North Bethesda, MD, the BSO became the nation’s first orchestra performing its full season of classical and pops concerts in two metropolitan areas.

In July 2022, the BSO made history with the announcement that Jonathon Heyward would succeed Music Director Laureate and OrchKids Founder Marin Alsop as the Orchestra’s next Music Director. Maestro Heyward began his inaugural season in September 2023.

The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra is a proud member of the League of American Orchestras.

More information about the BSO can be found at www.bsomusic.org.

The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra is an Equal Opportunity Employer

The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and OrchKids do not discriminate in employment based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, differing physical abilities, genetic information, age, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factors.

EEO is the Law: https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/22-088_EEOC_KnowYourRights6.12ScreenRdr.pdf

Monday – Friday/Hours vary (Occasional evening and weekend work may be required)