Would you like to help create unforgettable experiences together with world-class artists and top-tier production teams? We are looking for a Technical Manager to lead the technical production of opera and other performances and events from concept to premiere.
In this role, you will be responsible for the seamless integration of lighting, sound, video, stage technology, pre-production, logistics, and safety. You will work in close collaboration with the Artistic Director and production team in a unique historic environment where standards are exceptionally high and results deeply rewarding.
As Technical Manager, you will lead technical pre-planning and venue adaptations, coordinate pre-production, and act as a technical sparring partner for the creative design process. Your responsibilities will include budgeting and resource planning, designing and managing technical schedules during build, rehearsal, and strike periods, as well as overseeing technical procurement and rentals. You will be accountable for occupational and audience safety, lead technical teams and partners, manage logistics and storage, and ensure comprehensive technical documentation for productions.
We offer you a key role in bringing world-class opera productions to life and the opportunity to work in an extraordinary historic setting with world-class art. You will be supported by a skilled, dedicated, and collaborative team, with clearly defined processes and ways of working that provide a solid foundation for your role. This role offers a genuine opportunity to develop the technical and safety practices of the Savonlinna Opera Festival and to leave your own lasting mark on the future of the event.
We are looking for someone with
- Experience in complex performing arts stage productions and production processes
- Proven ability to lead complex technical operations and expert teams
- Broad expertise in budgeting, procurement, and contract management
- Strong capability to manage multiple long-term and overlapping processes
- A proactive approach to occupational and public safety
- A relevant university degree or other applicable education
- A proactive communication style and excellent written and spoken Finnish and English
- An advantage: CAD skills, experience in multi-venue or outdoor productions, and additional language skills
The position is full-time, with the contract primarily open-ended (a fixed-term contract may be considered depending on the candidate). The role is based in Savonlinna, Finland. Partial remote work is possible outside the summer festival season, depending on the tasks. The position will start between 15 February and 15 March 2026, as agreed. A six-month probationary period applies.
APPLY BY 12 JANUARY 2026
Please complete the application form via the link below and attach your CV and a short cover letter no later than 12 January 2026. Interviews may begin during the application period. We are committed to promoting equality and diversity and warmly welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds.
APPLY NOW
More information
Jukka Pohjolainen, Head of Production
Tel. +358 40 533 5205
jukka.pohjolainen@operafestival.fi
–
The Savonlinna Opera Festival is Finland’s most internationally renowned cultural event and one of the country’s most significant tourist attractions. The month-long festival brings 65,000–70,000 visitors annually to Olavinlinna Castle, approximately 10% of whom arrive from abroad.
Opera in Savonlinna is a fully immersive experience: high-quality international performances, the unique atmosphere of Olavinlinna Castle, and summer evenings by Lake Saimaa combine to create something truly unforgettable.
Opera performances have been staged at Olavinlinna since 1912. During the festival season, the event employs approximately 500–600 seasonal staff. The festival’s annual budget is around EUR 8 million, of which 85% is covered through self-generated income and ticket sales. In 2024, the festival’s direct tourism impact on the Savonlinna region was approximately EUR 26.2 million.
The festival is produced by the non-profit Savonlinna Opera Festival Support Association, which is responsible for production, ticket sales, and marketing. The next Savonlinna Opera Festival will take place 3 July–1 August 2026.