Director of Programs

Who we are:

Riverside Arts Academy (RAA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Riverside, California, dedicated to providing access to high-quality music education. Through partnerships with more than a dozen school sites and community centers across the Greater Riverside area, RAA offers free and low-cost instruction to over 500 students from 2nd to 12th grade. Our students participate in diverse ensembles, including orchestra, Mariachi, choir band, and guitar. RAA is a proud member of El Sistema USA.

Position Overview

The Director of Programs is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing the design, implementation, and evaluation of RAA’s educational programs. This individual will manage curriculum development, internal program research, school district partnerships, faculty affairs, and student engagement, to ensure alignment with the organization’s mission. We’re looking for a passionate leader with significant experience in K-12 music education who is ready to make a lasting impact in our community.

Key Responsibilities

Program Leadership & Administration

• Oversee the implementation of all educational programs, ensuring they meet high artistic and pedagogical standards.
• Develop and implement curricula and course offerings that support student growth and engagement.
• Supervise and support the Programs Manager, who handles program operations and logistics.
• Establish and maintain program evaluation metrics to assess effectiveness and impact.

Faculty & Student Affairs

• Supervise and support RAA faculty (presently 12 teaching artists across orchestra, Mariachi, band, choir, and guitar).
• Manage faculty recruitment and professional development initiatives.
• Cultivate a positive, collaborative, and equitable learning environment, providing mentorship and support for students and faculty.
• Develop student recruitment strategies to increase program participation and retention.
• Teach and or/substitute teach music classes as needed, demonstrating excellence as a music educator.

Community Engagement

• Build relationships with students, families, and community stakeholders to strengthen program impact.
• Represent RAA at community events, conferences, and other engagements as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Music Education, Music Performance, or a related field (Master’s preferred). Equivalent work experience may substitute for a degree.
• Experience teaching music in a group setting.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to excel in a collaborative, mission-driven environment.
• Passion for equity-based arts education and a strong alignment with RAA’s mission.
• Successful completion of RAA's onboarding process, which includes, but is not limited to, a Live Scan background check.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in leadership positions within music education, including senior leadership, curriculum development, and/or faculty oversight.
• Proficiency in Spanish
• Expertise in elementary music education
• Experience with El Sistema-inspired organizations

Work Environment & Schedule

• Primarily in-person at RAA’s Riverside, CA location, with some hybrid flexibility for administrative duties.
• Some evenings and weekends may be required for rehearsals, performances, events, and faculty meetings.
• Classification: Full-time, exempt

How to Apply

Interested candidates should apply via really and submit a resume, cover letter, and three references. Applications missing any of these components will not be considered.

If you encounter technical difficulties, please contact adam@riversideartsacademy.com

Priority Application Deadline: March 7, 2025 or until the position is filled.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $82,000.00 - $85,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

Schedule:

• After school
• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Ability to Commute:

• Riverside, CA 92506 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Riverside, CA 92506: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Riverside, CA 92506

Salary : $82,000 - $85,000