Orchestra Administrator

Seattle Collaborative Orchestra (SCO) is seeking an experienced non-profit professional, ideally with a background in classical music or education, to lead the organization from a volunteer-led model to a more fully professionalized structure. 

We welcome candidates able to offer Strategic Leadership through Administrative Planning and Direction. This role will provide executive-level leadership and develop SCO’s fundraising, marketing, and organizational systems, as well as high-level strategic and systems-oriented support for 15–20 hours per month, at a rate of $2,000 to $3,000 per month.

The Orchestra Administrator will work closely with the Music Director and Board of Directors and play a pivotal role in shaping SCO’s growth and operational excellence.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Fundraising and Development

• Develop and implement fundraising strategies and systems for the organization. 

• Write annual appeals, collaborate with the board to identify and solicit gifts and concert sponsorships, write grants, and manage donor stewardship in partnership.

• Manage donor stewardship in partnership with the Music Director and Board.

• Organize an annual fundraising event, “Garden Party,” in partnership with the Board. May include: developing invite lists; emailing invites and/or preparing Board to send personal invitations; creating printed program; and event logistics.

Marketing and Communications

• Develop year-round communications strategies to build audience and donor engagement, including email and social media. 

• Lead marketing and communication efforts for SCO’s three annual concerts; may also include promotion of emerging chamber concert series. 

• Conduct community outreach and identify partnerships.

• Support educational outreach; for example, coordinate with local schools and educators to promote and distribute SCO material.

• Design (or hire out) promotional materials and concert programs, and coordinate printing.

Organizational Support

• Support Board and volunteer development.

• Support student and community musician recruitment with the Music Director.

• Participate in annual budget development and assist with revenue and expense projections, in partnership with the Board Treasurer. 

• Attend Board meetings, prepare meeting agendas with the Board President, and provide reports to the Board on progress and areas of need.  

• Represent and promote SCO’s mission to stakeholders and the broader community. 

• Gain familiarity with concert and event operations, including timelines, key personnel and points of contact. 

As capacity allows:

• Develop SCO season brochure to support launch of the 26/27 season. 

• Develop strategy to update and maintain development and ticketing database.

• Process incoming donations and provide timely gift acknowledgements and recognition, maintain donor data.

• Support Box Office at performances, as needed.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum 5 years experience in nonprofit administration; preference for leader with orchestral, fundraising, or communications roles

• Ability to design efficient internal systems and independently manage a diverse mix of responsibilities; must be able to independently manage workload and timelines

• Interest in supporting a growing, evolving organization

• Demonstrated fundraising skills; discretion with confidential donor information

• Strong verbal and written communication skills

• Excellent interpersonal, listening, and relationship-building skills

• Commitment to inclusive work environments; enthusiasm for diverse perspectives and backgrounds

Status: This position may be structured as an independent contractor engagement or part-time employee role, depending on the selected candidate's qualifications and preferences. Classification will be determined in accordance with applicable Washington State law. We will work with the selected candidate to determine the appropriate arrangement. Benefits not provided for this part-time role.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to foster positive relationships with staff, musicians, and board members

• Experience with office productivity tools including Google Workspace, Microsoft Office Suite, Squarespace, and CRM platforms such as Arts People and MailChimp

• Demonstrated proficiency with social media and email platforms (SCO currently uses MailChimp, Facebook, and Instagram)

• Available for monthly board meetings (currently Sundays at 10 am, virtual) and for three annual concerts

• Preference for a Puget Sound area resident; will need availability for periodic in-person meetings, rehearsals, and concerts in the Greater Seattle area 

REPORTS TO: Board President

TO APPLY: Applications must be sent by email to orchestra@seattlecollaborativeorchestra.org, subject line: Orchestra Administrator. Applications should include a cover letter (one to two pages maximum) stating interest and relevant experience and a resume or CV. References will be requested for candidates invited to have an interview. Preferred application deadline: July 10; position open until filled.

About Seattle Collaborative Orchestra

ABOUT SCO: Seattle Collaborative Orchestra (SCO) is a diverse, multigenerational performing arts organization dedicated to diversity in symphonic classical music. SCO musicians include approximately 80 students, amateur musicians, and professional musicians and educators who work together to create a unique and collaborative musical experience that represents a creative mix of traditional orchestral music, works by female composers and composers of color.

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