Career Opportunities
Work with us! We have openings for the following positions.
About Orlando Shakespeare Theater
Orlando Shakespeare Theater (Orlando Shakes) is one of the Southeast’s leading professional theaters, celebrating more than 35 years of live performance in the heart of Orlando. Operating from the Lowndes Shakespeare Center — a 53,000 square foot facility located at 812 E. Rollins St., Orlando, FL — Orlando Shakes produces a diverse season of classical works, contemporary plays, new American works, and beloved holiday productions, including our annual production of A Christmas Carol.
Senior Director of Development
Department: Development
Reports To: Executive Director Direct Reports: 2 – 3 staff and 1 contract grant writer
Classification: Full-Time, Exempt
Position Summary
The Senior Director of Development is a senior leadership role responsible for aligning the theater’s contributed revenue strategies to support sustainable growth.
This position oversees fundraising functions—driving contributed revenue, expanding donor base, and increasing philanthropic support. As a key member of the senior leadership team, this role partners closely with the Executive Director, Artistic Director, and Board of Directors to advance the theater’s mission, and deepen community engagement.
This is a newly created role designed to foster collaboration across teams, improve systems and
workflows, and position the organization for its next phase of growth.
Key Responsibilities
Revenue Strategy & Organizational Alignment
● Develop and implement a development strategy aligned with artistic and financial goals
● Establish and monitor revenue goals across all sources of contributed income including individual giving, corporate sponsorships, and grants
● Promote strong collaboration between marketing and development teams to ensure coordinated campaigns and consistent messaging
● Utilize audience and donor data to inform segmentation, engagement, and growth strategies
Development & Fundraising
● Manage and grow a portfolio of major donors and prospects
● Oversee individual giving, institutional funding (foundation and government grants), and corporate sponsorships
● Partner with the Executive Director and Board to strengthen fundraising efforts and engagement
● Guide strategy and execution for annual campaigns and fundraising events
Leadership & Team Management
● Supervise and support development staff, fostering a collaborative, high-performing team culture
● Manage departmental budgets and monitor performance against revenue goals
● Improve systems, processes, and use of CRM tools to support integrated work across teams
Qualifications
● Minimum of 7 years of leadership experience in nonprofit development
● Demonstrated success in fundraising, including major gifts and institutional support
● Strong leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills
● Experience using CRM systems such as Spektrix, Tessitura, or Salesforce
Preferred Qualifications
● Experience in nonprofit theater or performing arts organizations
● Knowledge of the Central Florida philanthropic landscape and key funders
● Track record of supporting organizational growth or leading cross-functional initiatives
Compensation
Salary range commensurate with experience and market, with a projected range of:
● $90,000 – $110,000
Comprehensive benefits package to include health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement contributions, and professional development support
Please submit a cover letter and résumé to [email protected]. No phone calls, please.
Bartender
Position: Bartender
Department: Front of House Operations
Employment Status: Part-Time, Non-Exempt
Reports To: Bar Manager, Bar Lead
Schedule: Varies by event; shifts may range from 8 AM to 11 PM. Weekends, evenings, and holidays required as needed.
Hours: Up to 20 hours per week
Pay Rate: $12 hour plus tips
Orlando Shakespeare Theater is seeking enthusiastic and customer-focused Bartender to support our 38th season. This is a part-time position ideal for individuals passionate about live theater and providing top-tier service to patrons.
This position is responsible for all aspects of bar operations, including setup, service, inventory management, cash handling, and compliance with alcohol service regulations. The ideal candidate is personable, dependable, and able to thrive in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment.
Essential Functions and Responsibilities
Hospitality & Team Collaboration
● Provide exceptional customer service to patrons, artists, donors, and volunteers.
● Create a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the organization’s commitment to hospitality and inclusion.
● Respond to patron questions and provide accurate information regarding venue amenities, events, and policies.
● Resolve guest concerns professionally and escalate issues when appropriate.
● Work collaboratively with front-of-house staff and volunteers, production staff, and caterers.
● Support overall performance and event operations and assist with special projects as assigned.
● Attend staff meetings, training sessions, and safety briefings as required.
● Remain familiar with emergency procedures and assist during emergency situations when necessary.
Bar & Concessions Operations
● Prepare, stock, operate, and close bar and concession areas before, during, and after performances and events.
● Prepare and serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, concessions, and snacks in a timely and courteous manner, according to established recipes and service standards.
● Maintain organized, clean, and attractive service areas at all times, following all health, sanitation, and food safety requirements.
● Operate POS systems (Square) and accurately process credit card, mobile, and other forms of cashless payments.
● Follow established internal controls and procedures related to POS operations.
● Complete end-of-shift reconciliation procedures.
● Monitor inventory levels and communicate replenishment needs to supervisors.
● Assist with stocking, organizing, and securing inventory.
● Maintain clean and safe storage, bar, and concession areas.
● Minimize product waste and ensure proper handling of supplies and equipment.
● Verify legal drinking age by checking valid identification.
● Exercise sound judgment regarding alcohol service and refuse service when necessary.
● Ensure compliance with all applicable state and local alcohol regulations and organizational policies.
● Complete incident reports and documentation as required.
Experience & Skills
● High school diploma or equivalent.
● Minimum one (1) year of bartending, concessions, hospitality, restaurant, or customer service experience.
● Must be at least 21 years of age.
● Experience operating POS systems and processing credit card transactions.
● Have a professional attitude, appearance, and personality.
● Exhibit exceptional customer service and interpersonal skills.
● Ability to work effectively under pressure while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
● Strong organizational and time-management skills and ability to multitask and prioritize competing responsibilities.
● Basic mathematical skills related to bartending and sales transactions. ● Current alcohol server certification, including Responsible Beverage Service certification where required by law (PREFERRED)
● Experience in high volume environments, theaters, performing arts centers, stadiums, or live-event venues. (PREFERRED)
● CPR and First Aid certification. (PREFERRED)
Physical Requirements
● Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout a shift.
● Ability to frequently reach, bend, stoop, kneel, and climb stairs.
● Ability to lift, carry, and move up to 30 pounds.
● Ability to work in crowded public spaces and busy event environments.
● Work is performed in theater, lobby, concession, and bar environments, indoors and outdoors. Sound levels are moderate.
Schedule
● Schedule varies based on event scheduling
● Shifts range from 8 AM start time to 11 PM end time
● Weekends, evenings, and holidays may be required
● Performances for the upcoming season are scheduled August 2026 – May 2027
● This position is anticipated to work anywhere from 0 to 20 hours per week. Hours are not guaranteed every week, and they will be assigned as needed
Wardrobe/Dresser – Corduroy
Temporary | Full-Time | September 30 – November 6, 2026 | $18.50/hr | Open Until Filled
Orlando Shakespeare Theater is seeking a temporary, full-time Wardrobe/Dresser for our upcoming production of Corduroy, running September 30 through November 6, 2026, at the Lowndes Shakespeare Center in Orlando, FL. This is an hourly position working closely with the Stage Manager and run crew to maintain the integrity of the show and costume design throughout the production run.
About Corduroy
Based on the beloved children’s book by Don Freeman, Corduroy is the charming story of a small teddy bear living in a department store who is missing a button from his overalls — and the little girl named Lisa who sees past the imperfection and makes him a home. A warm and timeless story about belonging, friendship, and the meaning of family, Corduroy is a joyful theatrical experience for audiences of all ages.
About Orlando Shakespeare Theater
Now in our 38th season, Orlando Shakespeare Theater (Orlando Shakes) produces a 10-show season from the Lowndes Shakespeare Center in partnership with UCF. We employ professionals from across the country, including members of Actors’ Equity Association, United Scenic Artists, and the Stage Directors and Choreographers Society. Our four performance spaces — the Margeson Theater (324 seats), Goldman Theater, Santos-Dantin Theater (65 seats), and Mandell Theater (100 seats) — host a full year-round season of classical works, contemporary plays, new American works, and educational programming serving Central Florida schools and the broader community.
Responsibilities Include:
- Conduct costume changes for performers throughout rehearsals and performances
- Execute quick changes in coordination with the run crew and stage management
- Complete minor costume repairs and quick rigging as needed during the run
- Process costume laundry and maintain the cleanliness and condition of all costume pieces
- Work closely with the Stage Manager and run crew to maintain the integrity of the show and costume design throughout the production
- Maintain organized and clearly labeled costume presets backstage
- Communicate clearly and promptly with stage management and the costume department regarding any costume issues or repairs needed
- Assist with any additional wardrobe duties as assigned by the Wardrobe Supervisor or other management designee
Qualifications:
- Prior wardrobe experience at the professional level preferred
- Basic hand sewing skills required; ability to complete minor repairs quickly and efficiently
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment while maintaining accuracy and calm under pressure
- Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
- Ability to work professionally and collaboratively with a wide variety of personalities
- Proficiency in hairstyling, wig styling, and/or stage makeup is a plus
- Reliable personal transportation required; housing is not provided
Schedule
Daytime, night, and weekend availability is required throughout the rehearsal process. Once in performances, the schedule shifts to daytime and weekend availability only. Specific schedule details will be provided upon hire.
Compensation
$18.50 per hour, plus overtime as applicable. This is a temporary, full-time hourly position. Housing and transportation are not provided.
Commitment to Diversity
Orlando Shakespeare Theater is committed to diverse and inclusive hiring. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds, ethnicities, gender identities, abilities, ages, and perspectives. We particularly welcome Orlando and Florida-based candidates as part of our commitment to supporting our local artistic community.
How to Apply
Send a current resume, cover letter, and references (with email contact) as a single PDF to [email protected]. Please include “Your Name – Corduroy Wardrobe/Dresser” in the subject line.
No Phone Calls Please.
Orlando Shakespeare Theater is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and artists.