We’re HIRING!
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Reports to: President & CEO
Supervises: Advancement and Patron Services Associate
Position Summary
The Hawai’i Symphony Orchestra seeks a full-time Director of Development to join our team. A key organizational leader, the Director of Development is responsible for maximizing the Hawai’i Symphony Orchestra’s contributed income by driving all fundraising activities, including individual and foundation giving. The Director of Development is pivotal in representing the organization to donors, sponsors, and the public through cultivation and stewardship activities, while assuring alignment with the HSO vision, mission, and strategic plan.
The ideal candidate will have demonstrated, progressively successful fundraising experience, a passion for symphonic music, thrive in a collaborative environment, be exceptionally organized and focused, and exhibit outstanding interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
Responsibilities
Develop and execute comprehensive plans to reach the HSO’s contributed revenue goals; with the President & CEO, set revenue and expense targets for fundraising activities; establish and prudently manage development budget; track, analyze and evaluate effectiveness of all fundraising programs and campaigns.
Secure new and upgrade existing donor commitments to the annual fund, including multi-year and planned gifts.
Oversee annual development plan and donor recognition program; provide leadership and strategic oversight of the various giving programs for the HSO, including annual fund, memorial and tribute gifts, major gifts, planned gifts, corporate sponsorships, and in-kind giving.
Engage with high-level symphony volunteers, including board of directors members, on their individual giving and their fundraising portfolios; serve as liaison to development committee.
Establish and grow relationships with existing and potential HSO sponsors and donors; deploy strategies to increase donor engagement and participation.
Oversee reporting, donor database and records management.
Plan donor events and receptions; attend HSO events/activities.
Other duties as required.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s or master’s degree, or equivalent experience, with a minimum of three years of demonstrated, progressively responsible, front-line fundraising performance in experience in a successful Development office. Strong people and process management skills, critical thinking, and attention to detail required. Impeccable oral/written communication ability, in addition to keen listening skills. Thorough knowledge of development functions, including donor identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
Additional qualifications
Strategic thinking, relationship building skills, collaboration, and attention to detail.
Ability to communicate effectively and build respectful, trust-based relationships with people from diverse backgrounds and experiences.
Highly self-motivated, metrics driven, and goal oriented.
Strong Microsoft Office and database skills with knowledge of CRM systems.
Ability to set priorities, multi-task and manage deadlines.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as a member of a team.
Diplomacy and discretion in handling sensitive and confidential information.
Must be willing and able to work all concerts and patron events. The position requires work on some evenings and weekends in addition to regular office hours.
Love for music and an understanding of the role the Hawaiʽi Symphony plays in the community.
Salary range and benefits: Full time, exempt, salaried. Salary negotiable, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, paid vacation and holidays, and company contribution to retirement plan.
To apply: Submit resume and a cover letter of introduction outlining your qualifications and interest to Amy Iwano, President & CEO, at aiwano@hawaiisymphonyorchestra.org. Applications will be reviewed as received.
All offers of employment are contingent upon clear results of a thorough background check. HSO is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All opportunities are provided without regard to race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, nationality, veteran status, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, AIDS/HIV, medical condition, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Led by Music and Artistic Director Dane Lam, Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra (HSO) connects Hawai‘i and the Pacific through visionary live music, serving as the premier provider of symphonic art forms throughout the region. The HSO, which performs at the Neal S. Blaisdell Concert Hall, features dozens of award-winning musicians who bring a unique Pacific perspective to a diverse repertoire. The HSO reaches 140,000 residents annually in Hawai‘i and the Pacific through its performances, community, and educational programs. The Symphony produces more than 40 performances each season, including the Halekulani Masterworks Series, HapaSymphony Series, Films in Concert, and an annual summer festival.
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Department: Operations
Reports to: Director of Artistic Engagement
The Operations & Stage Manager is responsible for the day-to-day support of the artistic operations of the organization. The ideal candidate will have experience in the classical music, theatre, or special events sector, work well in a collaborative environment, be exceptionally organized and focused, and exhibit outstanding oral and written communication skills.
Primary Responsibilities
1. Concert & Event Production Planning
Advance concert and event production, including: Sourcing keyboards, piano rentals, and tunings
Renting chairs and determining music stand requirements
Reconfirming load-in/load-out schedules with stage crew
Purchasing production supplies as needed
Produce and distribute advance sheets for concert weeks.
Attend staff and production meetings to advance each production.
Perform site visits to evaluate venue suitability and production requirements.
Responsible for production needs for auditions.
2. Stage & Technical Operations
Supply venues with stage plots.
Coordinate call times for IATSE and venue staff for orchestra shell setup, risers, and strikes.
Manage the physical setup and strike of the orchestra and stage, including:
Chairs
Music stands and stand lights
Music folders
Stage temperature
Coordination with sound and electrical departments
Coordinate stage changes, including:
Piano moves for soloists
Chorus risers
Special layouts for film presentations and other unique productions
Open the house and coordinate with IATSE, venue staff, vendors, and HSO staff.
3. Rehearsal & Performance Management
Plan and call rehearsals and performances.
Anticipate operational challenges and develop solutions before issues arise.
Cue stage entrances and coordinate backstage activity.
Improvise effective solutions during rehearsals and performances as needed.
Ensure smooth execution of rehearsal and performance schedules.
4. Musician & Artist Services
Work with the Personnel Manager to fulfill musician requests.
Work with the Personnel Manager to manage musician parking.
Maintain dressing rooms by ensuring they are:
Open and clean
Stocked with bottled water and clean towels
Equipped to meet artist requirements
Organize transportation for instruments and orchestra members.
5. Orchestra Equipment & Instrument Management
Work with the percussion section to verify required instruments are available and correctly staged.
Source percussion and specialty instruments as needed.
Coordinate instrument transportation and logistics.
Manage production equipment and inventory necessary for performances and events.
6. Labor Relations & Contract Compliance
Ensure adherence to the Collective Bargaining Agreement.
Coordinate effectively with union stage crews and venue personnel.
Support compliance with production and labor requirements across all services.
7. Budgeting & Administrative Responsibilities
Develop and manage the annual production budget.
Prepare cost estimates and production budgets for special events and projects as needed.
Track production-related expenditures and resource needs.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Schedule
Must be able to work concerts and rehearsals – nights and weekends available to work a full-time schedule with flexible consideration given for concert and rehearsal days during the concert season.
Work will be done in person at the Hawai’i Symphony Orchestra office and concert venues.
Qualifications
Must be a team player with a positive attitude. A self-starter who can work independently but is also comfortable taking direction.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, attention to detail, ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment, and maintain a professional decorum under pressure.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, Google suite, and basic computer tasks.
Ability to maintain confidentiality, including sensitivity to all personal and personnel matters.
Ability to shift/transport up to 40 lbs; ability to work outdoors.
Must have a valid driver's license and be able to drive.
Preference is given to candidates with experience with a performing arts organization. Knowledge of and appreciate for classical music a plus.
Employment is contingent upon ability to be legally employed in the United States.
Salary and Benefits
$45,000 annually or commensurate with experience
Healthcare; paid vacation and holidays; Simple IRA retirement plan
To apply: Submit resume and a cover letter of introduction outlining your qualifications and interest to Michael-Thomas Foumai, Director of Artistic Engagement, at mfoumai@hawaiisymphonyorchestra.org. Applications will be reviewed as received.
All offers of employment are contingent upon clear results of a thorough background check. HSO is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All opportunities are provided without regard to race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, nationality, veteran status, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, AIDS/HIV, medical condition, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Led by Music and Artistic Director Dane Lam, Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra (HSO) connects Hawai‘i and the Pacific through visionary live music, serving as the premier 4 provider of symphonic art forms throughout the region. Employing 84 professional musicians, the HSO, which performs at the Neal S. Blaisdell Concert Hall, features dozens of award-winning musicians who bring a unique Pacific perspective to a diverse repertoire. The HSO reaches more than 35,000 residents annually in Hawai‘i and the Pacific through its performances, community, and educational programs and 250,000 through radio concert broadcasts. The Symphony produces more than 40 performances each season, including the Halekulani Masterworks Series, Spotlight Series, Films in Concert, an annual summer festival, and a robust array of education and community programs.
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COMMUNICATIONS AND PATRON SERVICES ASSOCIATE
Reports to: Director of Marketing
Location: On-site at HSO office
Position Summary
The Communications and Patron Services Associate provides essential in-office support for the Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra, ensuring a welcoming and professional experience for patrons, donors, and visitors. This full-time position often serves as the first point of contact for incoming calls and inquiries, assists with ticket sales, and supports communication tasks across marketing and development departments.
Specific tasks include but are not limited to:
Marketing and PR
· Draft and develop content for newsletters, email communications, social media, donor communications, organizational updates, website copy, press releases, and media advisories.
· Create and gather compelling stories and content featuring musicians, guest artists, donors, education programs, community impact initiatives, partners, and audiences.
· Maintain and manage communication assets, including editorial calendars, website content, content libraries, archives, media contact lists, and artist marketing materials.
· Monitor, track, and compile earned media coverage and support public relations and media outreach efforts.
Development
· Ensure accurate and timely entry of gifts and patron data within Spektrix.
· Generate reports to support fundraising campaigns and engagement strategies.
· Act as a liaison across Advancement, Marketing, and operational teams to ensure consistent and effective use of Spektrix data.
· Support coordination of campaigns, ticketing initiatives, and events through aligned system use.
· Support special events, fundraising campaigns, organizational initiatives, and cross-department communication needs as assigned.
Patron Services
· Serve as a primary point of contact for patrons and donors, resolving inquiries and service issues.
· Ensure a positive and seamless patron experience.
· Support ticket services at concerts and events.
Qualifications
• Previous experience in customer service, patron services, or a similar front-facing role preferred.
• Strong interpersonal skills with a friendly, professional demeanor.
• Attention to detail
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook); basic familiarity with social media and CRM or ticketing systems a plus.
• Ability to work weekends and evenings as required for concerts and events
Salary range and benefits: $45,000-$48,000; full time, exempt, salaried. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, paid vacation and holidays, and company contribution to retirement plan.
To apply: Submit resume and cover letter to aiwano@hawaiisymphonyorchestra.org.
Applications will be reviewed as received.
All offers of employment are contingent upon clear results of a thorough background check. HSO is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All opportunities are provided without regard to race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, nationality, veteran status, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, AIDS/HIV, medical condition, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Led by Music and Artistic Director Dane Lam, Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra (HSO) connects Hawai‘i and the Pacific through visionary live music, serving as the premier provider of symphonic art forms throughout the region. The HSO, which performs at the Neal S. Blaisdell Concert Hall, features dozens of award-winning musicians who bring a unique Pacific perspective to a diverse repertoire. The HSO reaches more than 38,000 audiences annually in Hawai‘i and the Pacific through its performances and educational and community engagement programs. The Symphony produces more than 40 performances each season, including the Halekulani Masterworks Series, Spotlight Series, Films in Concert, a family-friend Beyond the Music programs, and its annual summer concerts.
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Reports To: General Manager
Position Summary
The Personnel Manager serves as the primary liaison between the musicians of the Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra and the administration. This position oversees all matters related to orchestra personnel, including musician scheduling, staffing, auditions, contract administration, payroll coordination, and personnel recordkeeping. The Personnel Manager works closely with the Music Director, conductors, musicians, and administrative staff to ensure smooth orchestra operations while maintaining compliance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) and Integrated Media Agreement (IMA). Knowledge of orchestral repertoire and the ability to read music are required.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Orchestra Personnel & Staffing
Work closely with the Music & Artistic Director, Orchestra Librarian, and Operations & Stage Manager to ensure appropriate instrumentation is secured for all rehearsals, concerts, education programs, and special events.
Hire and contract substitute, extra, and per-service musicians as needed.
Collaborate with the Music & Artistic Director regarding the utilization of per-service string players well in advance of concert dates.
Communicate directly with guest conductors regarding rehearsal order, personnel needs, and approval of substitute and extra musicians.
Organize orchestra seating assignments and monitor rotation systems as applicable.
Distribute musician rosters to staff, conductors, and stage personnel as needed.
Contract Administration & Labor Relations
Monitor compliance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) and Integrated Media Agreement (IMA).
Attend all orchestra services and ensure rehearsals and performances operate within contractual guidelines, including start and end times, breaks, intermissions, and overtime.
Alert the General Manager to potential contract issues, policy concerns, or deviations from the CBA or IMA.
Maintain awareness of contract-related deadlines and ensure the Music Director is informed of timelines regarding tenure decisions, contract renewals, and non-renewals.
Utilize strong conflict resolution skills to address personnel concerns and assist in resolving issues involving musicians, conductors, or contractual matters.
Foster a positive, professional, and respectful working environment for all musicians and artistic personnel.
Musician Records & Personnel Administration
Maintain complete and accurate personnel records for all musicians, including employment agreements; hire dates; compensation and benefits information; tenure status; leave records; other relevant personnel data.
Administer and track attendance records, including tardiness; sick leave; personal leave (paid and unpaid); vacation leave; sabbaticals; excused and unexcused absences.
Prepare and administer annual Individual Musician Agreements.
Payroll, Benefits & Financial Coordination
Maintain personnel records related to payroll, tax documentation, benefits, insurance, and approved business expenses.
Accurately track compensation information and provide required payroll data to the Finance Department in a timely manner.
Coordinate and maintain benefit and insurance documentation as required.
Auditions & Recruitment
Coordinate and manage recruitment and audition processes for orchestra vacancies in partnership with the Music Director and Audition Committee.
Oversee audition logistics, candidate communications, scheduling, and related administrative procedures.
Communication & Scheduling
Ensure musicians have current schedules, calendars, and other relevant information.
Maintain and update musician communications through the orchestra's information portal, including rehearsal orders, dress code requirements, instrumentation notices, personnel announcements.
Serve as the primary point of contact between orchestra musicians and administrative staff.
Education & Community Engagement
Coordinate musician participation in Education and Community Engagement activities as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required
Bachelor's degree, preferably in Music or a related field.
Strong knowledge of orchestral repertoire and the ability to read music.
Demonstrated understanding of orchestra operations and musician personnel management.
Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
Strong conflict resolution and problem-solving abilities.
Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and related business software.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment in sensitive personnel matters.
Preferred Attributes
The successful candidate will:
Promote a positive, collaborative, and respectful work environment.
Demonstrate professionalism, discretion, and emotional intelligence.
Remain calm and solution-oriented in high-pressure situations.
Be capable of making informed decisions and implementing them effectively in support of the organization's mission and operational goals.
Build strong working relationships with musicians, conductors, guest artists, and staff.
Salary range and benefits: $45,000-$50,000; full time, exempt, salaried. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, paid vacation and holidays, and company contribution to retirement plan.
To apply: Submit resume and cover letter to aiwano@hawaiisymphonyorchestra.org.
Applications will be reviewed as received.
All offers of employment are contingent upon clear results of a thorough background check. HSO is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All opportunities are provided without regard to race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, nationality, veteran status, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, AIDS/HIV, medical condition, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Led by Music and Artistic Director Dane Lam, Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra (HSO) connects Hawai‘i and the Pacific through visionary live music, serving as the premier provider of symphonic art forms throughout the region. The HSO, which performs at the Neal S. Blaisdell Concert Hall, features dozens of award-winning musicians who bring a unique Pacific perspective to a diverse repertoire. The HSO reaches more than 38,000 audiences annually in Hawai‘i and the Pacific through its performances and educational and community engagement programs. The Symphony produces more than 40 performances each season, including the Halekulani Masterworks Series, Spotlight Series, Films in Concert, a family-friend Beyond the Music programs, and its annual summer concerts.
