OSF is Hiring Audio Describer
Department: P&C/Access| Reports to: Volunteer and Access Manager
Status: Part-Time, Non-Exempt
Expected Start Date: August 17, 2026
Expected End Date: October 27,2026
Pay Rate: $23.69 hourly (with signing of Union contract, this may increase)
Location: Ashland, OR
This position is represented by IATSE Local 154.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities (Essential Functions**):
Prepares pre-show narrative and audio description scripts by
- Attending show introductions, technical and dress rehearsals, and previews as needed.
- Writing a 10–15-minute pre-show narration that includes costume and set design descriptions, cast lists, background information, and other information as applicable.
- Notating a full script with legible audio description information.
- Rehearsing during preview performances.
- Continually updating AD scripts to match any script changes made during the run of each show, such as blocking, dialogue, timing.
- Rehearsing audio description with Volunteer and Access Manager or peer.
Provides audio describing during live performances by
- Speaking and enunciating clearly.
- Trouble shooting technical glitches.
- Setting up and striking equipment prior to and after each performance.
Prepares to provide audio description for all productions
- Watches production during dress rehearsals or preview performances.
- Rehearses all audio description scripts during the first two weeks of a production’s run.
Ensures a positive patron experience by
- Assisting patron as needed to provide delivery the device and guidance for usage.
- Checking-in with patrons during intermission and after the performance.
- Retrieving the delivery device at the end of the performance.
- Interacting in a professional manner.
Advocates for improvements by
- Documenting patron feedback.
- Documenting and trouble-shooting technical issues.
Embraces the Festival’s commitment to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility by
- Behaving in a manner that enhances relationships among all company members, particularly those belonging to groups of diverse backgrounds, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, nationality, sexual orientation, religion, language, ability, age and socioeconomic status
- Interrupting behaviors that hinder our diversity and inclusion efforts
Other Duties and Responsibilities:
- Communicates with House staff regarding patron and device needs.
- Attend meetings as scheduled.
- Assist in training new Audio Describers as needed or assigned
Minimum Qualifications & Skills:
- High school diploma or equivalent required; college experience or degree preferred.
- Strong writing and grammatical skills required.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Strong customer service experience, including speaking with the public.
- Strong communication skills.
- Must be able to work independently.
- Strong problem solving skills.
Other Skills, Ability and/or Knowledge:
- Self-directed, able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously, problem solver.
- Knowledge of Word and Excel as needed.
- Excellent reading, spelling, vocabulary and editing skills.
- Ability to learn audio description equipment.
- Ability to work with colleagues across the organization.
Physical Ability:
- Must be able to access all levels of the theaters using stairs.
- Must have the ability to see, hear, and speak clearly.
- Must be able to sit for extended period of time.
- Specific abilities include auditory and visual concentration.
Hours Requirements:
- Ability to work flexible shifts Tuesday – Sunday, including days/evenings/weekends as scheduled.
- Maintain an open schedule with irregular work hours.
Preferred Qualifications & Skills:
- Bachelor’s degree preferred.
- Background in theatre.
- Bilingual.
- Prior training and/or experience in theatre audio description.
- Understanding of appropriate communication when interacting with people who are Blind or Low Vision
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights (https://www.eeoc.gov/poster) notice from the Department of Labor.
