Director of Sacred Music & Liturgy

St. John the Baptist Catholic Church is seeking a faithful, talented, and visionary Director of Sacred Music & Liturgy. This is a full-time, exempt professional position dedicated to lifting the minds and hearts of our congregants to God through the rich tradition of Catholic Sacred Music.

The ideal candidate is a practicing Catholic who desires to advance the mission of the Church to worship God in Spirit and Truth. You will work closely with the Pastor to implement a liturgical vision that fosters an atmosphere of deep reverence, helping our community encounter the Person and presence of Jesus Christ.

Job Purpose & Mission

The Director of Sacred Music & Liturgy enriches and deepens the prayer life of everyone at the Mass through thoughtful selection and excellent execution of Sacred Music. You will develop the musical talents of our parishioners, oversee all liturgical planning, and ensure that the beauty of the liturgy reflects the majesty of the Church’s traditions.

Key Responsibilities

1. Musical Leadership & Excellence

• Serve as the primary organ accompanist and director for all weekend Masses (Sat 5:00 pm, Sun 8:00 am & 10:00 am), Holy Days, and major liturgical celebrations.

• Direct and develop the parish’s choral programs, including the High School Choir, Sunrise Choir (3-5 people) (8:00 am), and SJB Choir (10-15 people) (10:00 am).

• Recruit, train, and provide ongoing musical formation for cantors, accompanists, and instrumentalists.

• Conduct weekly rehearsals with a focus on increasing the technical ability and prayerful engagement of choir members.

2. Liturgical Planning & Collaboration

• Collaborate with the Pastor to plan and implement Sunday, Holy Day, and special liturgies (including the Day of Mercy, processions, and para-liturgies).

• Curate music selections that prioritize Gregorian Chant, Polyphony, and sacred hymnody.

• Prepare worship aids for seasonal events such as Christmas, Holy Week, and Easter.

• Assist wedding couples and grieving families with music and liturgy preparation (stipends provided for funerals and weddings).

3. Administration & Stewardship

• Manage the Music Library, ensure copyright compliance, and oversee the maintenance of all parish instruments.

• Act as a resource person for the parish school music teacher and other staff members.

• Communicate schedules and liturgical plans effectively to ensure a harmonious and organized ministry environment.

Qualifications

• Faith Life: A practicing Roman Catholic and living disciple of Jesus Christ with a deep love for the Church’s mission.

• Education: College degree in Music, Organ, or a related field (or equivalent professional experience).

• Technical Skill: Exceptional proficiency on the organ and the ability to direct from the bench.

• Sacred Tradition: Extensive knowledge of Gregorian Chant and Polyphony, including the ability to read chant notation.

• Leadership: Strong interpersonal and organizational skills, with a track record of building and managing volunteer teams.

• Commitment: Flexibility to work weekends, evenings, and all major Church holidays.

Working at St. John the Baptist

Employment by the Catholic Church is a ministry. Our staff members are expected to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with the faith, morals, and laws of the Church. We offer a collaborative environment rooted in prayer and professional excellence.

Salary & Benefits

Starting Salary Range - $50,000 - $70,000, depending on experience.
Health Care Insurance
403b Matching
Paid Time off, Sick Time

Practicing Roman Catholic and a living disciple of Jesus Christ.
✔ Knowledge of, and experience in, the rich tradition of Sacred Music in the Catholic Church.
✔ Experience singing and/or directing Gregorian Chant and Polyphony, including fluent reading of chant notation.
✔ Knowledge and experience in planning parish liturgies and the liturgical practices of the Universal Church
✔ College degree in Music and/or Organ or related area or equivalent prior work experience.
✔ Demonstrate competency to play organ as well. Strong overall music skills
✔ Experience as a skilled choir director with the ability to direct a variety of choirs (i.e. adult choir, children’s choir,
etc.). Three years of experience preferred. Ability to direct from the bench.
✔ Ability to work with and support a variety of musical groups (i.e. youth/children, vocalists, and instrumentalists,
etc.)
✔ Knowledgeable in church music, including Latin, Gregorian chant, Church hymnody.
✔ Knowledge of and ability to educate others on the organ.
✔ Ability to involve youth and young adults in the liturgy.
✔ Ability to be directed by pastor.
✔ Strong leadership skills; ability to set vision, goals and direction.
✔ Strong analytical, planning and coordinating skills.
✔ Working with others:
o Ability to make decisions and work without direct supervision
o Ability to work in a manner that encourages participation and fosters growth of the programs
o Willingness to work with and minister to diverse people and situations
o Ability to work collaboratively in a team effort with other staff and parishioners
o Ability to organize, supervise all St. John’s choirs
o Ability to engage/immerse themselves into parish life
✔ Communication
o Effective communication skills to work with varying groups of people
o Possess well-developed oral communication and presentation skills

JOB QUALIFICATIONS – ADMINISTRATIVE:
✔ Ability to operate and learn current computer system
✔ Comprehensive computer skills, including Microsoft Office and Google Docs.
MENTAL DEMANDS:
✔ Ability to keep calm in chaotic situations
✔ Keep confidentiality
✔ Works well with others
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
✔ Ability to climb stairs
✔ Ability to lift 25 pounds
✔ Flexibility to work one evening a week and weekend hours. Must be flexible in meeting the needs of the job.