Props Supervisor

The role

As part of Opera Australia’s Technical division, the Props Supervisor plays a key role in delivering productions through the effective coordination and management of props, working closely with the Head of Props, Stage Management and other departments.

This is a hands-on role, leading a small team of props makers in the creation of props for new productions, as well as the maintenance and upkeep of props within the existing repertoire.

Focus areas

• Support the Head of Props in the day-to-day running of the department
• Lead and supervise props staff, including casuals, across rehearsals and performances
• Oversee the manufacture, preparation and maintenance of props for productions
• Liaise with designers to interpret concepts, drawings and build requirements
• Coordinate materials, equipment and purchasing in collaboration with the Props Buyer
• Maintain accurate props lists, show plots and production documentation, ensuring updates reflect creative changes
• Work closely with Stage Management to support rehearsal and performance delivery
• Prepare and refresh props for new seasons, including stock checks at MTK
• Ensure all props are safely prepared, preset and managed for rehearsals and performances Attend production meetings and complete general administrative duties, including maintaining records, materials and PPE

About you

• Demonstrated experience as a Props Supervisor, Deputy Head of Props or in a similar role (minimum two years preferred)
• Highly developed organisational and time management skills, with strong attention to detail
• Demonstrate hands-on manufacturing experience across standard props disciplines, including carpentry, metalwork/welding, scenic finishing, soft goods (sewing), composites and basic electrics
• Proven ability to work collaboratively with creative teams, technical staff and performers
• Ability to work effectively under pressure, demonstrating flexibility, professionalism and sound judgement
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Sound understanding of safe work practices within a production environment

Click apply to submit your CV and cover letter. Applications close on the 24 April 2026.

For any enquiries about this role, please contact our People team at: people@opera.org.au

About Opera Australia

Opera Australia (OA) is one of the nation’s most important cultural institutions. With a rich history and a global reputation for artistic excellence, OA presents over 500 performances each year—reaching more than 650,000 people through opera, musicals and concerts. Its productions span iconic venues such as the Sydney Opera House and the Arts Centre Melbourne, as well as regional centres across the country.

This year, OA is celebrating its 70th anniversary, marking seven decades of artistic excellence, innovative programming and national impact. From its beginnings as a small, community-driven company to its place today as the nation’s premier opera company, OA continues to reimagine opera and musical theatre for contemporary audiences—nurturing Australian talent, commissioning new work and sharing extraordinary stories through music and song.

OA is committed to artistic innovation, national reach and cultural leadership. The company nurtures Australian talent on and off the stage; collaborates with leading international and local companies, and brings extraordinary stories to life through music and song. With a full-time orchestra, dedicated chorus and a highly skilled workforce, OA is Australia’s largest performing arts employer and plays a vital role in Australia’s performing arts landscape and in the lives of audiences nationwide.

For more about OA please refer to our website: opera.org.au

Opera Australia is committed to enabling and preserving a culture of inclusion and connectedness. Our team come from all walks of life. We acknowledge that all individual differences, life experiences, self-expression, and talent represent our culture and reputation of Opera Australia. In recruiting for our team, we welcome the unique contributions that you can bring in terms of education, opinions, culture, ethnicity, race, sex, gender identity and expression.