Festival Driver - Producing (Seasonal)

Festival Driver - Producing (Seasonal) 

Spoleto Festival USA is one of America’s leading performing arts festivals. Each spring, for 17 days and nights, the Festival fills Charleston’s historic theaters, churches, and outdoor spaces with more than 150 performances in opera, theater, dance, and chamber, symphonic, choral, and jazz music. The 2026 Season will run from May 22 through June 7. 

Job Description 

Spoleto Festival USA is seeking reliable and service-oriented Festival Drivers to support artist services, the producing department, and general festival operations during the 2026 season. As a driver, you’ll play a crucial role in ensuring that artists and festival personnel are transported safely and efficiently between venues, housing, and other key locations, ensuring a smooth and professional experience while navigating Charleston’s busy festival period. 

This seasonal role offers multiple employment structures: 

• Some drivers will be part-time, hourly from April 26 through June 14, 2026, based on intermittent scheduling needs. 
• Others will be full-time and salaried, working from May 18 through June 7, 2026. 
• A few individuals may begin in part-time hourly roles and later transition to full-time salaried positions for the peak period. 

If you have a passion for the arts, a love for driving, and a commitment to exceptional service, we encourage you to apply. 

Position Type: Seasonal, part-time, hourly or salaried depending on role/schedule. Not benefit-eligible (Intermittent/As Needed) 

Anticipated Dates: 

• Part-time: April 26 – June 14, 2025 
• Full-time: May 18 – June 7, 2025 

Hours: This role offers both part-time hourly and full-time salaried scheduling structures: 

• Part-time, hourly drivers will work as needed between April 26 and June 14, 2026, typically ranging from 20 to 32 hours per week. Scheduling will remain flexible based on festival needs and availability, including night, holiday, weekend, and extended hours. Total hours will not exceed 129 per month. 
• Full-time, salaried drivers will work from May 18 through June 7, 2026, during the festival’s peak period. These roles are anticipated to involve full-time hours, including long days, nights, and weekends, and will follow a weekly flat-rate pay structure. 
• Some drivers may begin as part-time hourly and transition into a full-time salaried role beginning May 18, based on festival needs and candidate availability. 

Location: Charleston, SC (on-site)  

Department: Producing 

Reports to: Transportation Coordinator 

Responsibilities 

• Provide prompt and efficient transportation for festival artists and staff, including airport transfers, lodging, performance venues, rehearsals, and other scheduled destinations.  
• Assist with transportation needs, including airport arrivals and departures, performance logistics, grocery runs, donor events, and inclement weather travel accommodations.  
• Manage a flexible schedule, accommodating last-minute changes due to weather, delays, or other circumstances.  
• Foster a hospitable and professional atmosphere, ensuring artists feel valued and supported throughout their festival experience.  
• Distribute Welcome Packets and any additional materials.  
• Maintain open communication with the production team to ensure seamless coordination of artist transportation needs. 
• Keep detailed records of transportation logs and report any incidents or vehicle concerns as needed.  
• Regularly inspect and maintain the cleanliness and functionality of festival vehicles.  
• Assist with navigation and itinerary planning to ensure timely arrivals, considering traffic patterns and special events in Charleston.  
• Provide general information and recommendations about Charleston to artists to enhance their experience. 

Essential Experience and Skills 

• Strong driving skills and proficiency in operating various types of vehicles.  
• Knowledge of Charleston and its surrounding areas, including alternative routes and high-traffic zones. 
• Must have a working and charged cell phone during shifts to receive necessary updates and should be equipped with GPS capability to assist with communication and navigation. 
• Strong communication skills, with an emphasis on clear and timely correspondence. 
• Exceptional hospitality skills with a focus on providing a comfortable, inclusive, and enjoyable experience for all artists and staff.  
• Adherence to all traffic laws and safety regulations, with a commitment to responsible driving practices at all times.  
• Ability to handle sensitive situations with discretion and maintain confidentiality as required.  
• Patience and flexibility to adapt to last-minute changes in schedules or routes. 
• Passionate about people and able to handle challenges with a smile. 

Additional Requirements 

• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States for the duration of the engagement. 
• Must be at least 21 years of age as this role will require driving a rental vehicle, and our rental provider requires drivers to be at least 21 years old.  
• Must possess (or be able to immediately obtain upon hire) and maintain a valid driver’s license. Must be able to drive a Festival-provided vehicle and have access to reliable personal transportation. 
• Must be able to pass and maintain a clear background check. 
• Must be comfortable and able to drive in a variety of conditions, including navigating heavy traffic, congested pedestrian areas, late-night and early-morning driving, varying weather conditions, and unfamiliar routes.  
• Physical requirements include lifting up to 50 lbs., driving, standing, kneeling, bending, reaching above shoulders, and extended periods of driving. Adaptations to accommodate individual needs are available in accordance with the ADA. 
• Ability to work in a constant state of alertness and in a safe manner. 
• Demonstrated commitment to fostering an equitable, accessible, and inclusive environment for Festival staff, artists, audiences, and communities. 
• Flexibility with work schedule, including work nights, holidays, weekends, and extended hours as required; must be available to work long days, nights, and weekends during the Festival with a positive attitude. 
• This position is based in Charleston, SC, with on-site presence required.  

Compensation 

• Part-time drivers: $15 per hour (April 26–June 14, 2026) 
• Full-time drivers: $600 per week (May 18–June 7, 2026) 
• Some positions may begin as part-time and transition to full-time based on availability and festival needs. 

Perks: Complimentary access for seasonal staff + a guest to select performances and events. 

To apply: Please send your resume to careers@spoletousa.org  with the subject line “Festival Driver – Producing Department.” In your email, be sure to indicate whether you are interested in part-time, full-time, or both scheduling options. No phone calls, please. 

Spoleto Festival USA is an equal opportunity employer and committed to diversity in hiring. Equity is central to our culture, mission, and who we are as an arts organization. Spoleto Festival USA does not discriminate in employment on the basis of an individual’s race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, hairstyles or hair texture, national origin, religion, age, sexual orientation, individuals with disabilities, pregnancy, parental status, marital status, military status, or any other status protected by federal, state or local law. Our greatest strength comes from our ability to come together as unique individuals — come as you are and bring the best version of yourself. 

Uncertain if you fulfill every requirement in our job description? Don't let that deter you! If you think you have the potential to shine in this role, we wholeheartedly invite you to apply. At Spoleto Festival USA, we enthusiastically evaluate a wide spectrum of candidates, valuing their diverse workplace backgrounds and experiences. Whether you're entering the world of arts and culture administration, reentering the workforce after a break, contemplating a career shift, or pursuing advancement on your career journey, we're eager to consider you for exciting opportunities within our organization. Your application will be met with appreciation and thorough consideration