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Full Time Music Composition Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TrueShort

AI Music Composer & Editor

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

This role sits at the intersection of music composition, music editing, and AI-native creative ... Potential for long-term employment or full-time role * $200-$450 per episode * Ongoing work with ...

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Full Time Music Composition information

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$30.5K

$57.7K

$121.5K

How much do full time music composition jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time music composition in the United States is $57,731.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $64,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a full-time music composer do?

A full-time music composer creates original music for various projects, such as films, television, video games, commercials, and live performances. Their responsibilities include writing, arranging, and orchestrating music, collaborating with directors or producers, and sometimes overseeing recording sessions. Composers may work independently or as part of a larger team, and their work often requires creativity, technical knowledge of music theory, and proficiency with music production software.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full-time music composer?

To thrive as a Full-Time Music Composer, you need a strong grasp of music theory, composition techniques, and proficiency with at least one instrument, often supported by a degree in music or equivalent experience. Familiarity with digital audio workstations (DAWs) like Logic Pro or Ableton Live, as well as notation software and audio editing tools, is typically required. Creativity, adaptability, and strong communication skills set successful composers apart, especially when collaborating with clients or teams. These skills are crucial for producing high-quality music that meets project requirements and resonates with audiences in a competitive industry.

What are some common challenges faced by full-time music composers when working on multiple projects simultaneously?

Full-time music composers often juggle several projects at once, each with its own creative direction and deadlines. Managing time effectively while maintaining originality can be challenging, as composers must switch between genres and client expectations. Clear communication with collaborators and clients is essential to ensure that feedback is incorporated efficiently. Additionally, composers need to stay organized with their workflow and sound libraries to meet overlapping deadlines without compromising the quality of their work.

What is the difference between Full Time Music Composition vs Music Arranger?

AspectFull Time Music CompositionMusic Arranger
CredentialsMusic degree, composition certificationsMusic knowledge, arranging experience
Work EnvironmentStudios, offices, freelanceStudio, live performances, studio
Industry UsageFilm, TV, video games, advertisingPerforming groups, recordings, broadcasts
Primary FocusCreating original musicAdapting existing music for different ensembles or purposes

Full Time Music Composition involves creating original music pieces, often requiring formal training and working in various media like film or video games. Music Arrangers modify existing compositions to suit different ensembles or contexts. While both roles require musical expertise, composition emphasizes original creation, whereas arranging focuses on adaptation and reworking of existing music.

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

The most popular types of Music Composition jobs are:

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Full Time Music Composition jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Music Composition job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,731 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Visiting Assistant Professor of Music Composition

Knox College

Galesburg, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Description
The Department of Music at Knox College invites applications for a full-time, one-year appointment as visiting assistant professor of music beginning September 1, 2022. The successful candidate will demonstrate creativity and innovation in musical composition, excellence in undergraduate teaching and mentorship of student composers within a liberal arts environment, and dedication to service and teaching within a diverse community.
We encourage applications from individuals with expertise in both acoustic and digital music and with possible areas of concentration including (but not limited to) electronic music composition, sound studies, music production and engineering.
In addition to courses in composition and songwriting, teaching responsibilities may include core music theory and music history, aural skills, and advanced seminars in related to the candidate's areas of specialization. The teaching load is six courses for the year, two courses per each 10-week term.
Knox is a diverse college with over 35% of the student body identifying as American students of color and an additional 15% international students. Experience working with diverse populations of students and a commitment to teach successfully in a multicultural environment are expected.
Visiting faculty members at Knox are included in the professional and intellectual life of the College. The visiting faculty member will have a modest annual conference travel budget and access to research resources. Pay is commensurate with entry-level faculty positions at the College. Additional information can be found on our Human Resources webpage at https://www.knox.edu/offices/human-resources/employee-benefits-and-forms.
Qualifications
Qualifications: DMA or PhD in Music Composition expected at time of appointment; exceptional ABD candidates will be considered.
Application Instructions
Candidates should submit:
  1. A letter of application that addresses the candidate's preparation for inclusive teaching and discusses potential courses that would appeal to a diverse population of liberal-arts students.
  2. A curriculum vitae;
  3. Unofficial graduate transcript;
  4. Three confidential letters of recommendation.

Review of applications will begin on July 15, 2022 and continue until the position is filled.
Questions may be addressed to Professor Joan Huguet at musicsearch@knox.edu.

Apply