Gospel Choir Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Posting Details
Posting Summary
Position Title
Gospel Choir Director
FLSA
Non-Exempt
Department
Office Of Campus Ministry
Job Summary
Xavier University of Louisiana, the nation's only Catholic and Historically Black University, seeks a dynamic, faith-centered, and musically gifted Gospel Choir Director to lead and develop the University Gospel Choir. The Director will cultivate a vibrant musical ministry that enriches the spiritual life of the campus community through worship, performance, fellowship, and service.
Rooted in Xavier's Catholic identity and rich Black cultural heritage, the Gospel Choir serves as an important expression of faith, community, and student engagement. The successful candidate will possess a strong understanding of both the Black Gospel music tradition and Catholic liturgical worship, with the ability to engage students from diverse faith backgrounds in a welcoming and mission-centered environment. Preference will be given to candidates with demonstrated experience in Catholic liturgy and African American sacred music traditions. AA/EOE
Minimum Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in Music, Sacred Music, Music Education, Worship Arts, Church Music, or a related field; equivalent professional experience may be considered.
• Demonstrated experience directing vocal ensembles, choirs, or gospel music groups.
• Strong conducting, vocal coaching, and rehearsal management skills.
• Knowledge of Black Gospel music traditions and repertoire.
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively with college students from diverse backgrounds.
• Commitment to the mission and values of Xavier University of Louisiana.
Preferred Qualifications
• Experience directing music within a Catholic parish, university, campus ministry, or faith-based organization.
• Familiarity with Catholic liturgy, liturgical planning, and the liturgical calendar.
• Demonstrated knowledge of African American sacred music traditions, including spirituals, gospel, and contemporary worship music.
• Ability to read and teach music effectively.
• Experience working with collegiate choirs or student organizations.
• Proficiency in piano, keyboard, or other accompanying instruments.
• Experience arranging music for vocal ensembles.
Special Requirements Summary
The Gospel Choir Director must be available for:
• Daily Masses and liturgical celebrations as assigned.
• Weekly choir rehearsals (minimum of two rehearsals per week).
• Sunday liturgies when the choir is scheduled to serve.
• University ceremonies, concerts, convocations, and special events.
• Occasional evening and weekend commitments.
Work Hours
Typical commitment is expected to range from 10-19 hours per week, depending on the university calendar and performance schedule. This is a non-benefit eligible and non-exempt hourly part-time position.
KSA's
Knowledge, Education, Experience, and Proficiencies
• Bachelor's degree in Music, Sacred Music, Music Education, Worship Arts, Church Music, or a related field; equivalent professional experience may be considered.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Essential Duties and Responsibilities Description
• Direct and conduct the Xavier University Gospel Choir during rehearsals, liturgies, concerts, and special university events.
• Plan and prepare music for weekly and special liturgical celebrations, including Daily Mass, Sunday Masses, Baccalaureate, Founders Day, the Black History Month Convocation, and other university events as assigned.
• Collaborate with Campus Ministry, the Dean of Interfaith and Spiritual Life, the University Chaplain, and university leadership to ensure music selections align with the liturgical calendar, Catholic worship practices, and Xavier University's mission and values.
• Recruit, mentor, and retain student singers and musicians.
• Develop students' musical abilities, leadership skills, and understanding of worship through music ministry.
• Coordinate and lead regular choir rehearsals and sectional practices.
• Select and arrange repertoire reflective of traditional and contemporary Black Gospel music, African American spirituals, praise and worship music, Catholic hymns, and multicultural sacred traditions.
• Work collaboratively with accompanists, instrumentalists, guest musicians, and Campus Ministry staff.
• Maintain attendance records and communicate regularly with choir members regarding rehearsals, performances, and expectations.
• Assist in planning and executing special concerts, worship experiences, community outreach performances, and collaborative campus events.
• Foster a welcoming, inclusive, and spiritually enriching environment that encourages student participation, growth, and leadership.
• Support the University's commitment to faith formation, community engagement, and the development of the whole student.
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
S504P
Number of Vacancies
1
Desired Start Date
09/08/2026
Position End Date (if temporary)
Posting Date
08/30/2026
Application Review Date
08/31/2026
Closing Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants
Interested candidates should submit:
• Cover Letter
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae
• Three professional references
• Optional recordings, videos, or links demonstrating conducting and/or performance experience
Quicklink for Posting
https://jobs.xula.edu/postings/3946
About Xavier
About Xavier
Founded in 1925 by Saint Katharine Drexel and the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, Xavier is the only Catholic Historically Black University in the United States. Located in New Orleans, the University strives to contribute to a more just and humane society by preparing its students to assume roles of leadership and service in a global society. Xavier prides itself in its diverse learning and teaching environment that incorporates a variety of educational practices, including research and service learning.