Music Teacher at Making Waves Academy Richmond, CA

Downtown Boulder Partnership; Richmond (CA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Making Waves Academy in Richmond, CA seeks an Upper School Music Teacher to develop a rigorous program that builds a robust performance pipeline for Wave-Makers headed to college and beyond.

This role emphasizes music theory, instrument instruction, and ensemble leadership. The teacher will coordinate performances, create engaging lessons, assess progress, and foster a positive learning environment for dedicated students.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in music education or related field.
• Proficiency in musical instruments and knowledge of music theory, harmony, and history.
• California Teaching Credential (Single or Multiple Subject) in the subject area; EL Authorization desired.
• Teaching experience preferred but not required.
• Ability to manage student behavior and engagement.
• Familiarity with Google Suite and educational platforms (Canvas, PowerSchool).

Responsibilities

• Create and implement music lesson plans covering theory, instruments, and repertoire.
• Lead general music, choir, and instrumental classes.
• Assess and track student progress in rhythm, pitch, and skills.
• Coordinate and organize student performances.
• Maintain a positive, respectful learning environment.
• Prepare instructional materials for diverse learning styles.

Skills

Music theory

Instrument proficiency

Classroom management

Education history

Education

Bachelor's degree in music education

Tools

Google Suite

Canvas

PowerSchool

Job description

Overview

Music Teacher job at Making Waves Academy. Richmond, CA.

Faculty Salary Scale (see . Our scale ensures equitable pay progression commensurate with experience, education (Master's preferred), and professional certifications. Scheduled Weekly Hours 40 (academic-year).

When You Join Making Waves Academy You Commit to Intergenerational Change.

Responsibilities

You will join a team dedicated to rigorously and holistically preparing students from the 5th grade to their ultimate career success. You will be instrumental in fostering essential durable skills like critical thinking and self-advocacy, crucial for any field. This is more than a job; it’s a commitment to empowering students to lead fulfilling lives, have rewarding careers and give back to their communities.

As the Upper School Music Teacher, you are not just teaching a subject; you are building and directing a performance pipeline that prepares Wave-Makers for college and beyond. Your daily commitment is to excellence, in the classroom and on stage. Your Core Deliverables:

• Creating and implementing lesson plans: Lessons that cover music theory, types of music, and practical instruction with musical instruments.
• Lead engaging music classes: General music, choral, and instrumental music that support students’ understanding of music fundamentals.
• Assess student progress: Evaluate student performance and track student progress in areas such as rhythm, pitch, and instrumental skills.
• Coordinate musical performances: Organize musical performances to provide students with opportunities to perform and showcase their skills.
• Maintain a positive learning environment: Establish a supportive learning environment that encourages creativity, respect, and a love for music.
• Prepare instructional materials: Utilize a variety of instructional materials to accommodate diverse learning styles and promote music appreciation.

Qualifications

What We're Looking For

We need an expert musician with the grit of a dedicated educator. This is a high-commitment, high-reward role for someone ready to drive results in student performance and academic achievement.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in music education or a related field.
• Proficiency in musical instruments and expert knowledge of music theory, advanced harmony, and comprehensive music history.
• California Single or Multiple Subject Teaching Credential in the subject area and English Learner (EL) Authorization Certificate is desired. Applicants without credentials or an EL designation, as well as those who are eligible or currently enrolled in a CTC-approved program, will also be considered.
• Teaching experience is desirable, but related work experience will be considered.
• Ability to manage student behavior and drive high engagement in a structured, professional environment.
• Comfort with Google Suite and educational platforms (Canvas, PowerSchool).

The Making Waves Fit

We are looking for a community member, not just an employee. You must actively support our mission, uphold strict confidentiality, and be willing to participate in campus life, including weekly supervision duties. Excellent communication skills, flexibility, and a high degree of patience are non-negotiable.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Making Waves Academy is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to veteran status, disability or other legally protected characteristics.

Compensation and Benefits

Joining Making Waves Academy means securing a robust, comprehensive total rewards package designed to support your long-term financial, physical, and professional well-being right here in the Bay Area. We ensure your stability and growth so you can focus on maximizing every Wave-Maker's potential.

Financial Well-being
We offer competitive, above-market salaries that reflect your vital expertise in educational support, recognizing your commitment to our students. Beyond your base pay, you will have immediate access to a dedicated retirement savings plan, helping you build financial confidence for the future.

Health and Wellness
Your health is our priority. We proudly cover 100% of most premiums for medical, dental, vision, chiropractic, and acupuncture options for you and your family. We also offer benefits such as employee assistance programs to support your mental and emotional wellness.

Time to Recharge
We believe educators need time to recharge. You will receive generous paid time off, plus all school holidays and breaks. This schedule is designed to ensure meaningful time away from campus, facilitating a sustainable and healthy work-life balance that is critical to preventing burnout.

Professional Growth
We commit to your continuous improvement! You will benefit from ongoing training, dedicated collaboration time, and resources specifically designed to enhance your instructional and behavioral support expertise. You’ll be part of a culture that sees professional growth as essential to our mission.