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Director Music Supervisor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Chapel Music Director (MD) Part Time - 20 hours/week Job Summary: The Chapel Music Director (MD) is ... Supervisory Responsibilities: Working closely with staff members in administrative and technical ...

Chapel Music Director

Holland, MI · On-site

$30 - $34/hr

Chapel Music Director (MD) Part Time - 20 hours/week Job Summary: The Chapel Music Director (MD) is ... Supervisory Responsibilities: Working closely with staff members in administrative and technical ...

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Director Music Supervisor information

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$12.5K

$48.1K

$77.5K

How much do director music supervisor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for director music supervisor in the United States is $48,107.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,500.00 and $58,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director music supervisor?

To thrive as a Director Music Supervisor, you need a deep knowledge of music genres, licensing, and copyright law, often with a background in music, film, or media production. Familiarity with music editing software, music libraries, and industry-standard licensing platforms is essential. Strong negotiation skills, creativity, and the ability to collaborate with directors, producers, and composers set top professionals apart. These skills ensure that the chosen music enhances the project's vision while meeting legal and budgetary requirements.

What does a director music supervisor do?

A Director Music Supervisor is responsible for overseeing all musical aspects of a film, television show, or other media production. Their duties include selecting and licensing songs, collaborating with composers, negotiating music rights, and ensuring that the music aligns with the overall creative vision. They also work closely with producers and directors to enhance the emotional impact of a project through music. Additionally, they often manage budgets related to music and coordinate with legal teams for copyright compliance.

How does a director music supervisor typically collaborate with directors and producers during the production process?

A Director Music Supervisor works closely with film or television directors and producers to help realize the creative vision for a project’s soundtrack. This involves attending script readings, discussing the mood and tone for each scene, and suggesting music choices that enhance storytelling. They often coordinate licensing, negotiate with composers or artists, and ensure that all musical elements fit both the narrative and budget. Frequent communication and adaptability are crucial, as creative direction may shift throughout the production.

What is the difference between Director Music Supervisor vs Music Supervisor?

AspectDirector Music SupervisorMusic Supervisor
CredentialsExperience in music licensing, industry knowledge, possibly a degree in music or related fieldSimilar credentials, often with background in music licensing, production, or entertainment law
Work EnvironmentLeads music department, collaborates with directors and producers, oversees music selection and licensingWorks closely with directors, producers, and composers to select and clear music for projects
Industry UsageUsed in film, TV, and media production to denote a senior role overseeing music supervisionCommonly used for professionals responsible for music clearance and selection in various media

The main difference is that the Director Music Supervisor typically holds a senior, overseeing role, managing the entire music supervision process, while the Music Supervisor focuses on selecting and licensing music under the director’s guidance. Both roles require similar credentials and work within the same industry environment, but the director position involves higher-level responsibilities and leadership.

What cities are hiring for Director Music Supervisor jobs? Cities with the most Director Music Supervisor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Music Supervisor jobs? The most popular types of Music Supervisor jobs are:
What states have the most Director Music Supervisor jobs? States with the most job openings for Director Music Supervisor jobs include:

Director, Music Strategy & Operations

KCRW Inc

Santa Monica, CA • On-site

$125K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Director, Music Strategy & OperationsWho Are We

We are a global community that is driven by the creative spirit of Los Angeles. Through an inspiring mix of music, news, and culture, we bring joy and connection online, in person, and on the radio. Always excellent, accessible, and often unexpected, we are a constant source of fuel for the imagination, education, and good vibes. At least, that is what our members tell us.

As NPR’s flagship member station in Southern California for more than 30 years and a community service of Santa Monica College, KCRW is the next generation of public media.

How You’ll Make An Impact

The Director, Music Strategy & Operations reports to the Music Director (VP of Music) and serves as the primary operational leader for KCRW’s Music Department. This role is responsible for translating strategic vision into actionable execution across radio, digital, and live platforms, ensuring consistency, efficiency, and excellence across all music programming.

This position oversees day-to-day operations, production workflows, and cross-functional coordination, enabling the successful delivery of music content and experiences that build audience and community. Responsibilities include managing departmental operations, supervising staff and scheduling, overseeing digital and editorial execution, supporting artist relationships, and collaborating across departments to deliver high-quality programming aligned with KCRW’s mission.

Here’s What You’ll Do
  • Lead day-to-day operations and workflows of the Music Department

  • Translate strategic priorities into actionable plans and ensure execution across all platforms

  • Oversee operational performance of music programming across audio, video, digital, and live experiences

  • Ensure consistent standards and quality across all content outputs

  • Coordinate production schedules, release timelines, and publishing workflows with editorial and creative teams

  • Oversee planning and execution of live sessions and music events, including artist outreach and booking coordination

  • Maintain and develop relationships with artists, labels, managers, promoters, and venues

  • Supervise operational execution of editorial and digital music content

  • Collaborate with Events, Marketing, Membership, and Digital teams to support audience engagement and growth

  • Manage DJ scheduling, guest hosts, and programming coverage

  • Serve as administrative lead for departmental operations, including scheduling, contracts, and cross-department communication

  • Oversee budgets, timelines, and resource allocation for music initiatives

  • Supervise and mentor staff, including performance management and professional development

Here’s What You’ll Bring
  • Experience managing music programming, editorial production, and/or live events

  • Strong operational and project management skills with the ability to execute complex initiatives

  • Deep knowledge of the contemporary music landscape and artist ecosystem

  • Ability to manage multiple stakeholders and projects in a fast-paced, creative environment

  • Experience overseeing budgets, staffing, and resource planning

  • Strong communication and relationship-building skills with artists, industry partners, and internal teams

  • Proven ability to translate strategy into execution and measurable outcomes


Preferred Skill
  • Existing relationships within the music industry, including artists, labels, promoters, and venues

  • Experience working in media, marketing, or cultural organizations

  • Familiarity with public media or mission-driven organizations


What We Offer
  • Salary: $125,000 – $135,000

  • Hybrid work schedule for select positions

  • Eligible for overtime and premium working holiday pay rate

  • Sick leave award

  • Vacation leave accrual

  • Paid holidays

  • Health insurance (including medical, dental, vision, FSA, life and AD&D) eligibility

  • 403(b) with company match

  • Passionate office environment surrounded by an incredible community of curious and talented colleagues

  • KCRW is a qualifying employer under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program - read more here to determine your eligibility


KCRW aims to be representative of Southern California, and candidates with traditionally underrepresented backgrounds and perspectives are encouraged to apply. KCRW is an equal opportunity employer and actively recruits to promote diversity in our workforce. Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, status as a parent, national origin, disability, family medical history or genetic information, political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit based factors.