Music Instructor

The Salvation Army USA Western Territory; Salinas (CA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

The Salvation Army USA Western Territory is seeking a Music Instructor to coordinate day-to-day operations of the Youth Music Education Program, promoting a welcoming learning environment and meaningful family involvement in Salinas, CA.

You will teach guitar and keyboard, develop lesson plans, and support student growth and performance preparation within the Corps community and ministry programs.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Experience in music education is required.
• Experience working with children and families is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide weekly guitar and keyboard lessons for children and youth.
• Create age-appropriate lesson plans and teach basic music theory, note reading, rhythm, and timing.
• Lead group music activities and ensemble practice; track progress and prepare performances.
• Create a positive and supportive learning environment and maintain student records.

Skills

Music theory

Teaching children

Communication

Organization

Record keeping

Microsoft Office

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Experience in music education

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

OVERVIEW:

Reporting to the Program Coordinator, the Music Instructor coordinates the day-to-day operations and administrative functions of the Youth Music Education Program, including family engagement and program support. In partnership with families, volunteers, and Corps leadership, the Instructor promotes a welcoming and enriching educational experience that encourages student success, meaningful family involvement, and connection to the Corps community and ministry programs.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide weekly guitar and keyboard lessons for children and youth
• Create simple, age-appropriate lesson plans
• Teach basic music theory, note reading, rhythm, and timing
• Teach proper guitar and keyboard playing techniques
• Encourage good practice habits and skill development
• Lead group music activities and ensemble practice
• Track student progress and provide feedback
• Prepare students for performances and recitals
• Create a positive and supportive learning environment
• Encourage student confidence, participation, and personal growth
• Other related duties as required

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma or equivalent (required)
• Experience in music education (required)
• Experience working with children and families (preferred)

SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of basic music theory and beginner guitar and keyboard instruction
• Ability to teach children and youth in a positive and engaging manner
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to build positive relationships with students, families, volunteers, and staff
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and maintain accurate records
• Ability to motivate and encourage students of varying skill levels
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft programs

EQUIPMENT USED:

• Modern Office Equipment and Relevant Software
• Relevant music equipment

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. (usually file boxes)

ADA Statement

Qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential duties of the position with or without accommodation. A qualified person with a disability may request a modification or adjustment to the job or work environment in order to meet the physical requirements of the position. The Salvation Army will attempt to satisfy requests if the accommodation needed is reasonable and no undue hardship would result.

Acknowledgment of Religious Purposes of The Salvation Army:

Please note that The Salvation Army has a religious purpose and status as a church. We ask our employees that they do nothing to their relationship with The Salvation Army to undermine its religious mission. Employees must agree and understand that their services are a necessary part of The Army's religious purposes and their work-related conduct must not conflict with, interfere with, or undermine such religious programs or The Army's religious purposes.

At-Will:

Any employment relationship with this organization is of an "at-will" nature, which means that an Employee may resign at any time and the Employer may discharge an Employee at any time with or without cause. It is further understood that this "at will" employment relationship may not be changed by any written document or by conduct unless such change is specifically acknowledged in writing by an authorized executive of this organization.

Qualifications

Education

High School or Equivalent (required)

Experience

• Experience working with children and families (preferred)
• Experience in music education (required)

Licenses & Certifications

Background Check (required)

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

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 notice from the Department of Labor.