What are the responsibilities and job description for the Church Organist position at Seaside United Methodist Church?
General Function
The Organist will work with the Director of Music Ministries in implementing the vision for the traditional music program at Seaside United Methodist Church. He/she will serve as organist for worship services and other music program activities.
Accountability
The Organist is accountable to the Director of Music Ministries and the Pastor(s).
Duties and Responsibilities
- Consult regularly with the Director of Music Ministries and the Pastor(s) for the purpose of planning and coordinating all worship services and music program activities for the traditional services
- Serve as organist at rehearsals and worship services.
- Fill in to lead and conduct rehearsals as requested by the Director of Music Ministries.
- Provide ideas and input regarding expanding and enhancing the music program and activities.
- Work with the Director of Music Ministries to ensure musical equipment and instruments are maintained and upgraded as necessary.
- Provide input to the yearly music ministry budget for materials and expenses specifically for the traditional music program. Coordinate purchase orders with and submit receipts to the Director of Music Ministries for all expenditures for the traditional music program.
- Attend Worship Committee and Church Council meetings representing the interest of the music ministry, as requested by the Director of Music Ministries.
- Provide musical support and consultation for funerals and weddings as requested and in compliance with Church guidelines.
- Maintain professional credentials through self-development, workshops and seminars
- Manage and coordinate other special projects and perform other duties as directed by the Director of Music Ministries or the Pastor(s)
Core Competencies
- Job Knowledge/Technical Knowledge
Demonstrates knowledge of techniques, skills, equipment, procedures and materials appropriate to the position; Applies knowledge to identify issues, resource deficiencies and internal problems; works to develop additional technical knowledge and skills.
- Trust and integrity
Is widely trusted; seen as direct and truthful; keeps confidences; admits mistakes; adheres to an appropriate and effective set of core values during good and bad times; acts in line with those values; practices what he/she preaches.
- Spiritual Maturity and Theological Reflection
Ability to draw from and reflect upon one's personal experience of faith, spirituality, theology and religion; understanding and appreciation of the role of a professional who is called to a ministry, and have the ability to articulate this reality; evidence a basic understanding of theology including an understanding of the scriptural and doctrinal foundations of the faith community with regard to the assigned area of ministry; ability to connect one's personal experiences of faith, spirituality, theology and religion with the broader disciplines of our faith tradition; ability to engage others in conversation about their faith and faith development including being able to share prayerfully together.
- Managing vision and purpose .
Articulates and supports the vision and mission of Seaside United Methodist Church; communicates a compelling and inspired vision for ministry; talks beyond the “here and now” to a larger sense of purpose; creates a compelling vision of possibility, hope and optimism; helps others to own the vision
- Motivating others
Creates a climate in which people want to do their best; can motivate many different individuals and groups; empowers others; shares ownership and visibility; makes each participant feel valued.
- Organizing
Can gather and organize resources (people, funding, materials, support) to get things done; can orchestrate multiple activities at once to accomplish a goal; can use resources effectively and efficiently.
- Planning
Accurately assess the length and difficulty of a project; sets objectives and goals; breaks down work into process steps; develops schedules and task/people assignments; anticipates and adjusts for problems and roadblocks; measures performance against goals; evaluates results.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree in Music or equivalent experience
- Minimum 5 years of music ministry in a church environment
- Experience producing and directing special events, musicals and programs
- Demonstrated competency reading music and in playing organ, other instruments
- Experience in leading and mentoring choirs/ensembles, working with children and adults
- Proficient in computer technology
- Knowledge of traditional worship practices and a theological understanding and respect of the church sufficient to appropriately select music for traditional worship.
Working Conditions
The Organist is a part time, exempt position .
The work schedule is 13 hours per week.
Physical Requirements
Lifting equipment approximately 40-50 pounds—musical instruments, keyboards, etc
Prolonged periods of standing, conducting choirs, stress on shoulders, neck, arms
Hearing and Sight abilities—Reading music and listening to musical arrangements
Decision-Making/Discretion
Work is performed under the general direction of the Director of Traditional Music. This position has specific responsibility for assisting with the planning and implementing of the traditional music ministry.
Daily activities are conducted with a high degree of independence. The Director of Traditional Music and Pastor(s) may be consulted on issues related to schedules, sensitivity, or controversy.
Direct reports
There are no direct reports for this position.
Leadership and direct supervision of volunteers who provide their skills to the music ministry
External Contacts:
- Community organizations where ensembles perform
- Local musicians
- Guest musicians
- Brides
- Bereaved family members
- Others
Date approved:
Reviewed:
1/10/25
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $12,000.00 - $14,500.00 per year
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
Salary : $12,000 - $14,500