2026 Seasonal Festival Intern Positions
DESCRIPTION
Status: Seasonal Internship (Curricular Internship may be considered)
Reports to: Assigned Department Supervisor + Festival Hall/House Manager and Company Manager
Stipend, Travel & Housing: Travel or Travel Stipend & Housing will be provided by Central City Opera House Association with hourly compensation for Seasonal Internships at $15.16/hr
Location: Central City, CO, with occasional work at the Wheat Ridge office.
Work Schedule: Approximately May 11 - August 16, 2026, 6 days per week with 7–12-hour shifts or split-shifts that vary on balance with the unique operational needs of a summer festival and a typical 40-hour work week.
Application Deadline: Candidates are encouraged to apply by February 20, 2026 for consideration in initial rounds of interviews. Position(s) will remain open until they are filled.
POSITION SUMMARY
Central City Opera’s internship program is a robust and dynamic seasonal opportunity offering immersive training in arts administration, opera house and festival management, operations, and patron services for up to seven individuals. Hands-on experience will be provided through multiple areas of responsibility, including venue operations, historic preservation, event planning, hospitality and customer service experience, and front-of-house venue services, while contributing to the overall success of Central City Opera’s festival season through administrative responsibilities. The role requires versatility, leadership and team mindset, problem-solving, and exceptional customer service skills and provides the opportunity to participate in the rich history of a 94-year-old organization through traditions like learning and performing the beloved usher song before each performance.
Central City Opera's 2026 Seasonal Intern Positions include the Festival Operations Track and Specialized Department Tracks. The Festival Operation Track is designed for interns seeking broad exposure across festival operations and front-of-house functions. Specialized Department Tracks are designed for individuals seeking deeper hands-on administrative experience within a specific department while still participating fully in festival operations. All interns contribute meaningfully to the daily operations of the festival while receiving structured training, mentorship, and professional development.
All applicants will be automatically considered for the Festival Operations Track. To be considered for a Specialized Department Track, please express your interest(s) during the application process. Final placements are made based on interest, experience, organizational needs, and scheduling considerations.
INTERNSHIP TRACKS
** Specialized Department Tracks
Interns selected for Specialized Department Tracks are assigned to one primary administrative department and receive focused mentorship and responsibilities while also participating in general festival operations.
Available focus areas include:
Company Management (Housing & Transportation)
Development (Fundraising & Donor Events)
Marketing & Communications (Social Media, & Podcast)
Customer Service / Retail (Gift Shop & Merchandise)
Specialized Department Track interns serve as a primary support liaison for their department and take on more detailed administrative tasks.
** Festival Operations Track
Interns on the Festival Operations Track receive broad training across festival operations, supporting front-of-house, historic venue management, company housing, and daily administrative needs.
All interns contribute meaningfully to the daily operations of the festival while receiving structured training, mentorship, and professional development.
SHARED RESPONSIBILITIES (ALL INTERNS)
All Seasonal Interns will have responsibilities in the following areas:
Support rehearsal and performance setups and daily operational needs
Serve as Ushers, Assistant House Managers, or House Managers as assigned
Assist Festival Hall operations including office coverage, signage, inventory, and communication
Support company housing preparation, check-ins/outs, and troubleshooting
Assist with errands, transportation, and logistical support (driver eligibility permitting)
Participate in safety, emergency, and operational training
Work collaboratively with staff to support artists, patrons, and visiting personnel
Perform physically active tasks and navigate steep terrain at an altitude of approximately 8,500 feet above sea level in Central City, CO
QUALIFICATIONS
Strong communication, organization, and interpersonal skills
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
Professionalism, reliability, and attention to detail
Interest in arts administration, nonprofit operations, or event management
Comfort with variable schedules, long days, and physically active work
Ability to navigate steep terrain and historic facilities
Additional qualifications for certain duties:
Valid driver’s license encouraged
21+ preferred for certain responsibilities and certifications*
DESIRED SKILLS (VARY BY TRACK)
Administrative or office experience
Customer service experience
Familiarity with Microsoft Office / Microsoft 365, Canva, CRM systems, POS systems, or social media tools
Ability to multitask, prioritize, and adapt
Willingness to learn and receive feedback
*Central City Opera provides required training and certifications as needed for assigned duties.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
Central City Opera is committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable work environment and encourages candidates from all backgrounds and identities to apply.
Desired Start Date: May 11, 2026
BENEFITS
Pay Range: $15 - $15 Hourly
HOW TO APPLY
Please apply HERE by February 20, 2026 to be considered for initial interview selections. The position and application link will remain posted on our website HERE until filled.
Application Deadline: February 20, 2026
Application Email/Link: centralcityopera.bamboohr.com/careers/66?source=aWQ9Mjg%3D