Director of Music Ministry

The Archdiocese of Chicago, the third largest in the United States, serves more than 2.2 million Catholics in 216 parishes in Cook County and Lake County, covering 1,411 square miles. The Archdiocese, pastored by Cardinal Blase J. Cupich, has over 13,000 employees across systems and ministries, including Catholic Charities and one of the country's largest seminaries. Its 150+ elementary and secondary schools form one of the largest U.S. private school systems, earning 96 U.S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon Awards.

The Director of Music is responsible for enabling parishioners to encounter Jesus Christ through music within the liturgical celebrations and worship experience. The Director ensures that liturgical music assists believers in expressing faith, fostering unity, and enhancing worship. Responsibilities include developing, implementing, evaluating, and continuously improving parish music initiatives, and demonstrating strong leadership to build and retain volunteer teams critical to the success of ministry.

Essential Job Functions

Support annual planning for liturgical seasons, sacramental celebrations, and special liturgies in collaboration with staff and the parish liturgy committee.
Coordinate parish musicians, choirs, and cantors to ensure all liturgies are scheduled, well‑planned, and vibrant.
Provide training and formation for music ministers and musicians.
Support creation of worship aids that are engaging, accessible, and enable full participation.
Maintain equipment and resources such as musical instruments, sound systems, and related materials.
Guide parish opportunities or concerts, educating staff and congregation on the value of music in vibrant worship.
Coordinate with clergy and monitor parish demographics to influence music programming.
Support development of the parish strategic plan with the pastor, director of operations, and relevant staff.
Ensure compliance with Protecting God's Children guidelines for ministry with children, per Archdiocese policies.
Develop and implement tools to enhance the quality and vibrancy of prayer and worship.
Develop a children’s choir and music program connected with the school, focusing on musical education for youth.
Plan and execute at least two parish concerts per year.

Job Requirements

Previous experience in parish music ministry.
Experience leading congregational song, choral conducting, and at least one other musical specialization (piano, guitar, voice).

Additional Qualifications

Ability to collaborate with clergy, staff, parish leaders, and volunteers.
Practicing Catholic with understanding and support for Catholic Church teaching, mission, and values.
Knowledgeable in Church music literature across styles for congregations, choirs, vocalists, and instrumentalists.
Understanding of musical, liturgical, and pastoral judgment for selecting music for liturgy; able to communicate and prioritize the role of music.
Comprehensive vision of evangelization.
Strong leadership and management skills with commitment to collaboration and teamwork.
Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
Familiarity with technology used for communication and presentations.
Ability to work weekends, evenings, and special parish events and religious holidays throughout the year.

Preferred Job Skills And Experience

Master’s Degree in Liturgy, Sacred Music, Pastoral Studies, or equivalent.
Previous experience leading parish music ministry and evaluating liturgical celebrations in fidelity to official liturgical books and Catholic liturgical theology.
Priest, deacon, religious, or lay ecclesial minister preferred or willingness to pursue ongoing formation/education.
Availability to work weekends as needed.
Physical capability: climbing, stooping, kneeling, hand/finger dexterity.
Speaking skills.

The Archdiocese offers a comprehensive total rewards package including competitive compensation and benefits. This position has a salary range of $42,000–$52,000, with pay based on education, qualifications, experience, skills, location, and business needs.