Church Music Director

The Church Music Director serves as the Church Organist and Pianist and Director of the Chancel Choir, working with the  Pastor in supporting the music goals of First United Methodist Church of Oak Park.

Essential Responsibilities

• Accompany and direct the Chancel Choir in weekly rehearsals, Sunday worship services and with special attention to Lent (which includes  special services (which includes Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Sunday) and the Advent Season which includes Christmas Eve and Christmas if it falls on a Sunday
• Collaborate with Pastor and participate as required in musical programs of the church
• Responsible for the recruitment and support of choristers to support the on-going music ministry
• Support opportunities for choir members and other church members to grow and develop individual levels of musicianship
• Provide leadership in the selection of music in collaboration with the Pastor and engage the congregation to enhance worship services and special services
• Ensure service information is submitted to the church office on a timely basis for inclusion in the weekly church service bulletin
• Provide program announcements and communication  to the church office for inclusion in the bulletin announcements
• In conjunction with the Pastor, develop an annual budget for the music program and effectively administer the music program’s annual budget
• Attend staff and worship meetings as requested by Pastor
• Responsible for obtaining and scheduling substitute organist/choir director to cover absences
• Responsible for maintaining the music library, choir robes and musical instruments, e.g., Skinner organ, pianos and hand bells
• Plan and prepare for worship in collaborative and supportive relationship with Pastor, other staff and church members
• Perform other duties as required appropriate for the position

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an accomplished accompanist and Choir Director
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively with others
• Effective leadership and motivational skills
• Knowledge of diverse musical styles suitable for contemporary or traditional worship environments
• Ability to work in creative collaboration and support with a diverse staff and volunteers
• Commitment to inclusivity, diversity and the mission of First United Methodist Church of Oak Park

Employee Status

• Direct supervisor is Pastor with oversight by Staff Parish Relations Committee
• Part-time employee; 20 hours/week
• Paid on a salary basis
• Paid vacation is one week per service year up to a maximum of three. Not accruable.
• Sick leave accrues in accordance with State of IL law

Work Location: In Person

To apply for this position, please send a resume and cover letter to churchoffice@firstumcoakpark.org.