Graphic Design Intern at Lyric Opera of Chicago Chicago, IL

Graphic Design Intern job at Lyric Opera of Chicago. Chicago, IL.

REPORTS TO: Manager, Art Direction & Visual Identity

TERM: February 2026 - December 2026

HOURS: 20 hours per week (In-Office)

Through artistic excellence coupled with innovative, relevant programming; initiatives to connect with and grow new audiences; engagement with communities to ignite creativity across Chicago; and a modernized Opera House that is the setting for truly great experiences, Lyric is leading the advancement of opera. This collaborative vision will deliver ever more exciting, thought-provoking and inclusive audience and community experiences – while increasing the gravitational pull of our art form, our company, and our city.

The Graphic Design Intern will support Lyric’s Marketing & Communication team by creating and adapting visual materials for both print and digital platforms. This internship is designed for a current student or recent graduate who is eager to build a professional portfolio, strengthen their design skills, and gain hands‑on experience in a collaborative and fast‑paced environment. A curiosity about the performing arts and a desire to grow as a designer while contributing to a mission‑driven organization are highly encouraged.

• Design clear, engaging design collateral for print and web, including logos, direct mail pieces, promotional items, website, and social media graphics, posters, flyers, branded templates, and other materials as needed.
• Alter existing designs to work for many different sizes and platforms.
• Work closely with Lyric staff to translate their messaging concepts into marketing materials.
• Fully understand and gain command of the Lyric brand style guide and serve as a resource.

• Undergraduate, graduate, or post‑grad students (up to 1 year post‑grad) with a degree in marketing, graphic design, or related fields.
• A portfolio that documents work samples and the effectiveness of designs.
• Strong understanding of how typography, layout, photography, and color work together to form clear, captivating, cohesive materials.
• Extensive knowledge of Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop.
• Knowledge of Canva, Adobe Express, After Effects, Microsoft Suite, and Google Suite a plus.
• Impeccable attention to detail.
• Ability to receive and process criticism on creative work.
• Strong communication, time management, interpersonal and organizational skills. Ability to undertake multiple projects simultaneously.
• Ability to prioritize work, use good judgment, demonstrate a strong sense of urgency, and promptly carry projects through to completion.
• Ability to work and think independently and work well in a larger team.
• Illustration skills are a plus.
• Web design knowledge is a plus.
• Interest in the performing arts/opera is a plus.

• Sitting for extended periods.
• Ability to occasionally oversee evening or weekend functions, deployments, or performances.
• Fast‑paced and demanding environment.
• Ability to lift 30 pounds.

Job Classification:
Part‑Time, Non‑Exempt Intern

Hourly Rate: $16.60 + Weekly $30 Travel Stipend

Portfolio submission required.

Final date to receive applications:
Friday, January 2, 2026 (5:00pm CT)

Lyric Opera of Chicago offers intern benefits including professional development and department workshops, complimentary tickets, and other events.

Lyric Opera of Chicago is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, parental status, socio-economic status, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

We strongly encourage individuals of all backgrounds to apply.