What are the responsibilities and job description for the Manager of Operations & Community Partnerships - School of Music position at Augustana University?
Position Summary
The Augustana University School of Music invites applications for a Manager of Operations and Community Partnerships, a full-time administrative position supporting the artistic, operational, and community-facing work of the School beginning in 2026.
This position plays a central role in coordinating the full scope of School of Music activities, including rehearsals, performances, festivals, touring, and summer programming. The Manager works closely with faculty, students, artistic leadership, and external partners to ensure that all production, logistical, and operational elements are executed at the highest professional standard.
In addition to production oversight, this role leads the development and cultivation of community partnerships throughout the Sioux Falls region, strengthening existing relationships while identifying new opportunities that expand the School’s visibility and engagement.
This is a 12-month, full-time position with a standard schedule of 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., with regular evening and weekend commitments in support of performances and events.
Primary Responsibilities
Operations & Performance Production (≈ 40%)
- Provide leadership for School of Music operations, ensuring high-quality execution of rehearsals, performances, festivals, and special events
- Coordinate production logistics including staging, equipment, technical needs, venue setup, and stage plots
- Supervise stage crew, student workers, and event support personnel
- Oversee inventory, maintenance, and repair of instruments, equipment, and production materials
- Collaborate with faculty and artistic leadership to communicate schedules, technical needs, and production details
Event & Venue Management (≈ 20%)
- Coordinate use of on- and off-campus venues, including assessments, logistics, and readiness
- Serve as liaison with venues such as the Washington Pavilion and other community partners
- Ensure safe, accurate, and professional event environments
- Coordinate performance support services, including piano maintenance and technical needs
Community Partnerships & Engagement (≈ 20%)
- Develop and strengthen partnerships that advance the mission and visibility of the School of Music
- Serve as a primary liaison for community-based programming, events, and initiatives
- Collaborate with campus partners on outreach, marketing, and engagement strategies
- Support and expand community-facing programming, including festivals and summer camps
Administration, Scheduling & Financial Operations (≈ 20%)
- Coordinate rehearsal, performance, and event scheduling in collaboration with faculty and leadership
- Support School of Music office operations in partnership with the Program Coordinator
- Assist with budget tracking, purchasing, and contract administration
- Maintain records, workflows, and documentation related to student performances and academic milestones
- Support tour planning, logistics, and travel coordination
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in music, arts administration, public relations, or a related field
- Minimum of seven years of relevant professional experience
- Demonstrated experience managing complex events, productions, or projects
- Broad knowledge of music as both a performing art and academic discipline
- Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
- Ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities and deadlines
- Experience collaborating with faculty, students, staff, and external partners
- Proficiency in standard office software and production-related tools
- Ability and willingness to work evenings and weekends as required
- Ability to transport equipment and support production needs, including driving equipment locally
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in higher education, conservatories, or professional music organizations
- Experience with ticketing systems or event management software
- Marketing or audience engagement experience
- Background in musical performance
Interacting with students, faculty and leadership from diverse backgrounds and perspectives, along with a deep appreciation and respect for academic principles and culture, must be a top value of the candidate.
Application Procedure
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Interested applicants are asked to submit the below application materials via our Career Center Portal. If assistance is needed during the application process, please reach out to humanresources@augie.edu.
- Cover letter
- Resume
- Contact information for three professional references
Augustana University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Title IX Employer. Applicants must comply with the Immigration Reform and Control Act and may be required to submit official transcripts upon hire. Finalist candidates must satisfactorily complete a pre-employment background check.