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Commercial Music Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$89.24/hr

Music Opening Date: 10/02/2023 Description We are accepting applications for the Adjunct Commercial Music Instructor Applicant Pool. Adjunct pools are open on a fiscal year basis for continuous ...

Pop Music Faculty

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$40 - $60/hr

Introduction to Commercial Music and Recording (this course will begin in October of 2026) * Providing instruction in accordance with established curriculum, course outlines and class schedules

Introduction to Commercial Music and Recording (this course will begin in October of 2026) * Providing instruction in accordance with established curriculum, course outlines and class schedules

Introduction to Commercial Music and Recording (this course will begin in October of 2026) * Providing instruction in accordance with established curriculum, course outlines and class schedules

Pop Music Faculty

New York, NY · On-site

$40 - $60/hr

Introduction to Commercial Music and Recording (this course will begin in October of 2026) * Providing instruction in accordance with established curriculum, course outlines and class schedules

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Commercial Music information

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How much do commercial music jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for commercial music in the United States is $22.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $26.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is commercial music?

Commercial music refers to music that is created primarily for commercial purposes, such as generating revenue or supporting business objectives. This includes music used in advertising, film, television, video games, and streaming platforms, as well as popular music released by artists and record labels for mass consumption. Professionals in commercial music may work as composers, producers, performers, or in music business roles, focusing on music that appeals to a broad audience and is marketable. The industry values creativity, technical skills, and an understanding of current trends to succeed in various commercial contexts.

What are commercial music jobs?

There are a wide variety of jobs in the commercial music industry. Composers write musical pieces for different products, from video games to independent films and musicals. In audio recording, you work with musicians in a studio as you aid in the mixing of compositions for various uses. Musicians may write or perform musical compositions for album recordings or to support other musical artists. As a producer, you collaborate with musicians and recording studio executives to develop arrangements and interesting sounds for an album or artist. You also handle the copyright, permission, and license of any music you help produce.

What types of projects and collaborations can I expect to work on in a commercial music role?

In a Commercial Music role, you’ll often work on a variety of projects such as writing jingles, producing music for advertisements, composing for film or television, or collaborating with artists on new releases. Teamwork is key, as you’ll frequently interact with marketing teams, audio engineers, producers, and sometimes even clients directly to meet specific creative briefs. These roles can be both fast-paced and deadline-driven, requiring flexibility and strong communication skills. The collaborative environment provides valuable networking opportunities and helps you develop a well-rounded skill set in both music and business.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a commercial music professional, and why are they important?

To excel in commercial music, you need a strong grasp of music theory, songwriting, and production, often supported by a degree in music, audio engineering, or related experience. Familiarity with digital audio workstations (DAWs) like Ableton Live or Pro Tools, as well as knowledge of music licensing and distribution platforms, is essential. Creativity, collaboration, and networking skills are vital soft skills for building industry relationships and adapting to trends. These competencies ensure that music professionals can create marketable content, navigate industry demands, and sustain successful careers.

What is the difference between Commercial Music vs Music Producer?

AspectCommercial MusicMusic Producer
CredentialsMusic degrees, industry certifications, portfolioMusic degrees, production certifications, portfolio
Work EnvironmentRecording studios, media companies, advertisingRecording studios, personal studios, media companies
Industry UsageCreating music for commercial purposes like ads, TV, radioOverseeing music production, arranging, mixing, and finalizing tracks

Commercial Music involves creating music specifically for commercial use, such as advertising, TV, and radio, often requiring knowledge of marketing and audience targeting. A Music Producer focuses on managing the entire music creation process, from recording to mixing, regardless of the music's purpose. While both roles require similar credentials and work environments, Commercial Music emphasizes producing music for commercial applications, whereas Music Producers oversee the production process across various music genres.

How much do commercial musicians make?

Commercial musicians' earnings vary widely based on experience, location, and the type of projects they work on. On average, they can earn from $30,000 to over $100,000 annually, with top professionals and those working on high-profile campaigns earning more. Many commercial musicians supplement their income through freelance work, licensing, and performing in addition to studio recordings.

What can I do with a commercial music degree?

A commercial music degree prepares individuals for careers such as music producer, sound engineer, composer, music director, or audio technician. Graduates often work in recording studios, live event production, advertising, or media industries, utilizing skills in music technology, production, and business management.

What cities are hiring for Commercial Music jobs?

Cities with the most Commercial Music job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Commercial Music jobs?

The most popular types of Commercial Music jobs are:

What states have the most Commercial Music jobs?

States with the most job openings for Commercial Music jobs include:

What are popular job titles for Commercial Music?

Popular job titles for Commercial Music:

Infographic showing various Commercial Music job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,504 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

Commercial Music Adjunct Instructor Applicant Pool

On-site

Canyons School District
Elementary and Secondary Schools • 1 - 5K employees

$89.24/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Canyons School District rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Salary: $89.24 Hourly
Location : Santa Clarita, CA
Job Type: Part-Time Faculty
Job Number: 202300021
Division: Visual & Performing Arts
Department: Music
Opening Date: 10/02/2023
Description
We are accepting applications for the Adjunct Commercial Music Instructor Applicant Pool. Adjunct pools are open on a fiscal year basis for continuous recruitment for department assignments. Please review application material requirements carefully to ensure successful submission. Your application will not be considered until all required documents are received.
The teaching assignment may be at the Valencia or Canyon Country campus, or other college teaching locations. Part-time faculty positions are as needed positions and do not accrue rights to tenure. Part-time faculty positions offer flexible hours and the opportunity to assist a diverse group of students in achieving their educational goals. We offer a wide range of opportunities in transfer, general education, vocational and occupational programs.
Example of Duties
College of the Canyons is seeking adjunct faculty members in Commercial Music. Applications will be considered for immediate and future eligibility into the Commercial Music Applicant Pool.
We are accepting applications on an on-going basis for future consideration into the Applicant Pool. When no review date is listed for an Adjunct Instructor position, the position is open until filled. Your application will not be considered until all required documents have been received.
Service
  • Assume leadership roles both within the department and in the institution as a whole. Commitment to serving the needs of the student, department, college, and community. Collaboration across disciplines and utilization of student support resources. Participation in department, division, college committees, and participatory governance activities.
  • Participation in curriculum and program development.
  • Work collegially and collaboratively within the college community.
  • Participation in ongoing professional development.
Teaching
  • Ability to create a dynamic learning environment that values instructor/student interaction.
  • Ability to effectively engage with and facilitate authentic learning for students of diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences.
  • Ability to adapt teaching pedagogy to the knowledge of each individual and class. Ability to self-reflect and respond to an evidence-based assessment of student learning.
  • Demonstrated experience and commitment to integrating new technologies into the learning process, including but not limited to interactive technologies for on campus and on-line courses.
  • Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.

Qualifications and Minimum Requirements
Possession of an unexpired California Community College Instructor Credential in Music;
OR- Any bachelor's degree and two (2) years of full-time equivalent professional experience directly related to the faculty member's teaching assignment or the equivalent;
OR- Any associate degree and six (6) years of professional experience directly related to the faculty member's teaching assignment or the equivalent.
Please note:
  • Hiring committees review all complete, qualified application packets. Possession of the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an interview.
  • A teaching demonstration may be required at the interview stage.
  • From time to time the equivalencies accepted by departments change. If you are qualifying under an equivalency, please note that if hired you must qualify under the established minimum qualifications or department equivalency(ies) in place at the time of hire. See Applying Through Equivalency for forms and information.

Further Details
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Assignments may include Monday through Friday (day and evening), as well as Saturday classes.
Adjunct Salary Rate: Starting at $89.24 per hour. (Link to Academic Adjunct Salary Schedule).
Offer and acceptance of employment is subject to verification of all information provided on the employment application, credential/transcripts, background fingerprint clearance, tuberculosis screening, proof of eligibility to work in the United States (College of the Canyons hires only individuals lawfully authorized to work in the United States) and Board of Trustees approval as required.
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
All materials listed below are required to be considered for an interview. Applicants are encouraged to apply online by visiting our website at All application materials must be uploaded online or received by the Human Resources Department, located in the University Center, Suite 360. College of the Canyons, 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, California 91355. If you require assistance, please contact the Human Resources Office at (661) 362-3427 or for hearing impaired TTY/TDD (661) 362-5178.
  • District ACADEMIC Application.
  • Current detailed resume summarizing education and experience.
  • Complete College transcripts verifying educational degree(s) and/or coursework required for the position. Unofficial or copies of transcripts may be submitted for application purposes (please include both the front and back of ALL transcript pages); however, official transcripts must be submitted at the time of hiring. Copies of college diplomas are not acceptable in lieu of transcripts.
    • Important note on minimum education requirements: Units and/or degree(s) earned must have been awarded by a college or university accredited by an agency recognized by the American Council on Post-Secondary Education. The candidate is responsible for providing equivalency evaluation recognized by the District for degrees and/or units earned outside the United States, degrees from a college or university not accredited by an agency recognized by the American Council on Post-Secondary Education, or if degree is not in the exact discipline required. For your convenience, we accept any company who is a current member of NACES.
  • Letters of professional reference are optional.

It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure that the official application packet is fully and correctly completed. All materials submitted become the property of the District. Materials will not be returned, copied or considered for other openings. Complete applications will be kept on file for two (2) years from the date the application is initially received.
SELECTION AND APPLICANT POOL PROCESSPositions are open until filled. The above position represents the anticipated need for the upcoming semester(s) or the applicant pool. The department may review materials at any time based on enrollment needs and the Human Resources Office will contact selected applicants for the interview process. Only completed application packets that meet the minimum qualifications or established equivalency will be considered.
Qualified applicants who successfully complete the selection and interview process will be placed in the applicant pool and may be eligible for adjunct employment with the District anytime within the next 36 months.
For the most current information, please visit the College of the Canyons benefits page at or call (661) 362-3127.
01
Do you possess an unexpired California Community College Instructor Credential in the appropriate discipline? If yes, submit applicable credential (front/back).
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you possess ANY Bachelor's degree and two (2) years of full-time equivalent professional experience directly related to the teaching assignment? Professional experience includes both work/occupational experience and teaching experience. If yes, submit all applicable transcripts (front/back) and include details of your experience. Please type "N/A" if this question is not applicable.
03
Do you possess ANY Associate's degree ANY six (6) years of professional experience related to the teaching assignment? Professional experience includes both work/occupational experience and teaching experience? If yes, please submit all applicable transcripts (front/back) and include details of your experience. Please type "N/A" if this question is not applicable.
04
If you answered "No" to Questions 1, 2, and 3, please select the following accepted equivalent qualifications to show how you qualify for this position? You must submit an equivalency form along with your application materials.
  • Equivalency Option #B: Any Master's degree from an accredited institution of higher education AND completion of 24 semester units in the discipline at the upper division and graduate level, a minimum of which must be 12 graduate level semester units. You must submit an equivalency form along with your application materials.
  • Equivalency Option #C: Any Associate's degree from an accredited institution of higher education. If you selected this option, you music complete and submit a "Request for Associate's degree Equivalency Form." Please see the job announcement for "Applying Through Equivalency" for form and more information.
  • I do not meet the above equivalencies (Option B or C).
  • Not Applicable. I qualify via minimum qualifications listed in Questions 1, 2, or 3.

05
Teaching online courses with College of the Canyons requires a full online certification (36 hours or the equivalent). Please indicate your certification level for online instruction, as follows:
  • I am online certified through College of the Canyons or another institution (*Please include all relevant documents in your application materials.)
  • I am partially online certified through College of the Canyons or another institution (*Please include all relevant documents in your application materials.)
  • I am not online certified (*If you are hired by the District, you will need to obtain certification prior to being assigned online courses.)

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