Driver

DRIVER JOB DESCRIPTION
 Department: Artistic Operations
 FLSA Status: Nonexempt
 Work Location: Onsite
Wages: $15/hour
 FT/PT: Part time, up to 30 hours/week
 Last Revision Date: April 10, 2024

The Organization: The Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO) is known internationally for trailblazing
performances, collaborations with the world’s foremost musical artists, and a deep commitment to
serving our community. Making its home in historic Orchestra Hall at the Max M. and Marjorie S. Fisher
Music Center, the DSO actively pursues its vision to be an inclusive and culturally relevant community
where all people can experience their world through music.

The DSO is a complex organization. Operating 365 days per year in historic Orchestra Hall, one of
America’s most acoustically perfect concert halls, we are a performing arts institution, an educational
facility, and a community center. We are governed by an independent Board of Directors and employ
both union and non-union employees as musicians, stage crew, and administrative staff. Creating a
unified culture throughout the institution is an organizational imperative, and we are guided by our values
of excellence, diversity, resilience, collaboration, and innovation. The DSO is also deeply invested in the city of Detroit; through our Detroit Strategy initiative, we are expanding the DSO’s participation in the growth and well-being of the city. 

The DSO’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is paramount to who we are; we work to create
an environment where all employees are seen, valued, and supported to enable their best every day.
This is essential as we pursue our mission to impact lives through unforgettable musical experiences by
sustaining a world class orchestra for the city of Detroit and the global community.

The DSO offers a unique, fast-paced working environment, an excellent overall compensation package,
and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. For more information visit www.dso.org.

Position Summary:

Drivers provide local transportation for DSO guest artists, conductors and others as needed between
airport, hotels and the performing venue for rehearsals, practice times, performances, and special needs.
They also assist in vehicle upkeep by keeping the DSO’s vehicle fueled, clean, and maintained. The
Driver is an ambassador for DSO and is often the person with the most frequent personal contact with
guest artists and conductors. Professionalism in conduct and appearance, and sensitivity to the needs of
the artists, is required at all times.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provides transportation to and from hotel, venue, and airport for guest artists, conductors and
others as needed in DSO company car and/or rental cars or passenger vans.
• Provides care and attendance to needs of guest artists and conductors while in transit.
• Ensures that all destinations will be reached in a direct and timely fashion (i.e. proactive route
planning, calling for directions in advance).
• Assists in maintaining the professional appearance of DSO company and/or rented vehicles.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Primary Reporting Responsibility: Artist Liaison (and Senior Director of Artistic Planning)
Supervision Provided: None

The DSO recommends all employees be vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

Valid chauffeur’s license.
The ability to work a flexible schedule based on the DSO’s performance season, including nights
and weekends. Drivers work anywhere between 4-25 hours per week.
Safe and clean driving record.
Ability to speak and read English proficiently, including the ability to read and understand road
maps.
Ability to lift and carry heavy suitcases and similar items.
Thorough knowledge of Detroit, Ann Arbor, and surrounding metropolitan areas and roadways.
The ability to interact effectively with difficult people and be accommodating, flexible, and
sensitive to the needs of demanding and particular individuals.
Strong communication skills, including communicating and interacting clearly, knowledgably, and
positively with guest artists, DSO staff and orchestra members, hotel employees, and airline
officials.

Additional Information:

Must have personal transportation to drive to the Max M. and Marjorie S. Fisher Music Center.
Company vehicle is stored at office.
Must be sensitive to professional appearance of company vehicle and demonstrate initiative and
willingness to assist in maintaining said professional appearance.
Must demonstrate a courteous manner, positive attitude, and professional appearance at all
times while representing the DSO.

Physical Requirements: