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Associate Band Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Associate Band Director information

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$30.5K

$102.7K

$173K

How much do associate band director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate band director in the United States is $102,728.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,000.00 and $141,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate director of bands?

An associate band director is a teaching professional who assists the head band director in planning, rehearsing, and conducting band performances. They often help with student instruction, instrument sectionals, and may take on leadership roles within the band program, typically requiring music education or related certifications. This position usually supports the overall functioning of school or community band programs and may involve conducting smaller ensembles or assisting during performances.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the US, high-paying roles such as chief executive officers, investment bankers, and specialized surgeons can earn $500,000 or more annually. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced degrees, leadership skills, and sometimes performance-based bonuses or profit sharing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Band Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Band Director, you need strong musical proficiency, conducting skills, and a relevant degree in music education or performance. Familiarity with music arranging software, notation programs like Finale or Sibelius, and experience with various band instruments are commonly required. Exceptional communication, leadership, and organizational abilities help in motivating students and coordinating with staff. These skills ensure effective instruction, successful performances, and a positive learning environment for students.

What are Associate Band Directors?

Associate Band Directors are educators who assist the head band director in managing and conducting school or community band programs. Their duties typically include leading rehearsals, teaching music fundamentals, organizing performances, and supporting students' musical development. They may also handle administrative tasks, help select repertoire, and collaborate with other music staff. Associate Band Directors play a vital role in enriching the band experience and ensuring the smooth operation of the program.

What is the difference between Associate Band Director vs Assistant Band Director?

AspectAssociate Band DirectorAssistant Band Director
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in music or related field, teaching certification often preferredBachelor's degree in music or related field, certification may be preferred
Work EnvironmentHigh school or college band programs, rehearsal and performance settingsSimilar settings, often supporting lead directors in rehearsals and performances
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, music programs, community bandsSame as Associate Band Director, often a supporting role

The main difference between an Associate Band Director and an Assistant Band Director lies in their responsibilities and seniority. The Associate typically has more leadership duties and may oversee specific sections or programs, while the Assistant supports the lead director and assists with rehearsals and performances. Both roles require similar credentials and work in comparable environments, but the Associate often holds a higher level of responsibility.

Are band directors in demand?

Band directors are generally in steady demand, especially in schools with active music programs. Employment opportunities depend on school budgets, student enrollment, and regional demand for arts education, with a need for strong musical skills and teaching certifications.

How does an Associate Band Director typically collaborate with the Head Band Director and other music staff?

An Associate Band Director works closely with the Head Band Director to develop and implement lesson plans, coordinate rehearsals, and organize performances. They often take on specific responsibilities, such as managing particular sections of the band or overseeing small ensembles, while ensuring alignment with the overall program vision. Collaboration with other music staff, including instrument specialists and support personnel, is common and helps foster a cohesive educational environment. Regular communication and teamwork are essential for maintaining consistency and providing students with a well-rounded musical experience.

What kind of jobs in media bring in $150,000 a year?

In media, high-paying roles that can reach $150,000 annually include senior positions such as media executives, producers, and directors, especially in large organizations or with extensive experience. Skills in management, content creation, and industry-specific tools like editing software or broadcasting equipment are often required, along with a strong professional network and proven leadership ability.
More about Associate Band Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Associate Band Director jobs? Cities with the most Associate Band Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Band Director jobs? The most popular types of Band Director jobs are:
What states have the most Associate Band Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Associate Band Director jobs include:
Infographic showing various Associate Band Director job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,728 per year, or $49.4 per hour.
Field Instructor & Drill Choreographer

Field Instructor & Drill Choreographer

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Part-time

Posted 13 days ago


University Of Southern California rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

105th of 553 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The USC Trojan Marching Band's (TMB) mission is to provide the University of Southern California with one of the finest marching band programs in the country, while contributing to and supporting the University. The program provides its members with the opportunity to perform music and to develop their individual artistic expression through the vehicle of the ensemble at athletic contests, various University functions, concerts, and ceremonies throughout the calendar year. It is also the function and mission of "The Spirit of Troy" to be the main vehicle for and conservator of school traditions and spirit. The TMB reports to the Vice President of Student Affairs.

The Field Instructor and Drill Choreographer (FIDC) is responsible for assisting the Associate Director and Director in guiding all aspects of the TMB and will represent the TMB to important external constituencies and other professional organizations. The successful candidate will work closely with the Director and demonstrate an ardent commitment to working in a team-centered environment. Further, they will join a dedicated band staff, administering the 300+ student Trojan Band Program, offering comprehensive, professional, and educational ensemble experiences to its students. Additional responsibilities may be assigned, given the qualifications and interests of the successful candidate.

The Administrative duties of the FIDC are carried out during the workweek and after standard working hours, as deemed by the Director or as necessitated by the TMB program. The FIDC will work alongside the Office Staff for the successful implementation of all TMB affairs. The FIDC will assist the Director and Associate Director with the field supervision of Student Leadership, including, but not limited to, the Section Leaders, Squad Leaders, Pavilion Coordinator, and Equipment and Uniform Teams. The FIDC will be responsible for maintaining attendance records for field rehearsals and will be the primary voice for enforcing program policies regarding student interactions. The FIDC will attend all staff meetings and will act on behalf of the Director, Associate Director, or Assistant Director in their absence and at their request. The FIDC will work closely with other university departments and maintain an open line of communication for the successful implementation of all TMB events.

In collaboration with the Associate Director, the FIDC will be responsible for the creation, teaching, and management of all marching drills and maneuvers, as well as the associated technology and pedagogical methodologies. The FIDC will ensure that all members are prepared with their marching materials and field rehearsals and will be available for any necessary troubleshooting.

The FIDC will work closely with the Assistant Director of Gig Bands and direct smaller ensembles as needed, potentially traveling by van to remote corners of Southern California.

The FIDC will assist the Associate Director in developing the academic curriculum for Leadership Training. Additionally, the FIDC will be responsible for the pedagogical training of the novice members of the TMB, providing hands-on training during Fall field rehearsals and in the Spring semester during University Band.

The Band duties of the FIDC are typically performed during the workweek, after standard working hours, and at certain band events. Certain band duties of the FIDC are specialized to the semester. These duties can include, but are not limited to, the following:

Fall Semester:

  • Assist the Director with the implementation of Band Camp

  • Assist the Associate Director with the creation and teaching of Marching Drill

  • Assist in the management of access to Ultimate Drill Book for all members

  • Provide specialized instruction to the novice members

  • Manage attendance for all field rehearsals

  • Assist Student Leaders with section management

  • Assist the director in all rehearsals

  • Attend all home football games

  • Attend full-band trips (Weekender, Notredame, Post-Season Championships, and Bowl Games)

  • Attend class trips as deemed necessary by the Director

  • Run full-band rehearsals in absence of Director and Associate Director

Spring Semester:

  • Assist the Associate Director with Basketball and University Band

  • Provide specialized instruction to the novice members

  • Attend home Basketball games as needed

  • Act as the Assistant Conductor for the USC Concert Band when needed

    • Attend rehearsals

    • Prepare all scores

    • Conduct in the Director's absence or as needed by Director

Summer Months:

  • Assist the Director with Summer Performances

  • Attend all Orientation/Recruitment Events

  • Plan and Implement Band Camp

Additionally, the FIDC will oversee band activities as deemed necessary by the director. This can include, but is not limited to, various campus events, invitational events, and band meetings.

The ideal candidate will exhibit a commitment to creative output, possess excellent communication skills, and demonstrate highly advanced organizational skills to maintain a broad spectrum of projects, tasks, and relationships. In addition, they will have some experience in budget management, marketing, and communications, including, but not limited to, website development and maintenance, other digital communications, personnel administration, and volunteer management. In addition, the successful candidate must demonstrate, through ideas, words and actions, a strong commitment toUSC's Unifying Values.

The qualifications for this position include a bachelor's degree, five years (minimum) of successful marching/athletic band teaching at the collegiate/university level, demonstrated success leading marching/athletic bands, and teaching at the university level.

Time commitment:

  • 20-30 Administrative hours/week
  • Weekend and Evening Performances

Events (including but not limited to):Home Football Games, Home Basketball Games, Full Band Trips

The hourly rate range for this position is $21.97-26.17. When determining an offer, the University of Southern California considers factors such as the scope and responsibilities of the role, the candidate's experience, education, training, key skills, internal peer alignment, applicable laws, contractual requirements, grant funding, and market conditions.

#LI-MN1

Education:
Minimum: Associate's degree
Preferred: Bachelor's degree
Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education
Work Experience
Minimum 1 year
Preferred 3-5 years
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Required: Specialized experience and training in applicable performing or visual arts.

USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to theBackground Screening Policy Appendix Dfor specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.

We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email atuschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

  • Notice of Non-discrimination
  • Employment Equity
  • Read USC's Clery Act Annual Security Report
  • USC is a smoke-free environment
  • Digital Accessibility

If you are a current USC employee, please apply to this  USC job posting in Workday by copying and pasting this link into your browser:

https://wd5.myworkday.com/usc/d/inst/1$9925/9925$149415.htmld

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About University of Southern California

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Southern California (USC) is not a conventional company, but a private research university established in the heart of Los Angeles, CA, US. Founded in 1880, it's one of the oldest private research universities in California. USC operates in the education industry providing primary services of higher education, research, and community development. This prestigious institution offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines, including the humanities, social sciences, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). The University is guided by its commitment to foster creativity, innovation, leadership, and discovery through academic excellence.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles , CA, US

Year founded

1880