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Music Conductor Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Automation Test Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$95K - $169K/yr

The musical conductor to our automation testing efforts. Your symphony? The project. Your audience? Our clients. "Testing 1-2-3" Your mic check responsibilities include applying business requirements ...

Music Conductor information

See Washington salary details

$6

$25

$51

How much do music conductor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for music conductor in Washington is $25.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.03 and $29.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a music conductor do?

As a music conductor, your responsibilities are to guide an orchestra, band, or other instrumental ensembles in playing music, keeping tempo, and carrying out the composer’s vision for the musical piece. A conductor is somewhat of a liaison between a composer and the band or orchestra, ensuring that the band or orchestra adheres to the composer’s intent for a musical piece. Music conductors carry out their duties in school or community bands and professional orchestras. As a music conductor, you must have expert musical skills, including knowledge of how to play each instrument, the ability to read and interpret sheet music, and the ability to follow a rhythm.

What does a music conductor do?

A music conductor leads orchestras, choirs, or other musical ensembles during rehearsals and performances. They interpret musical scores, set tempos, cue musicians, and shape the overall sound of the performance. Conductors also collaborate with musicians to ensure that everyone is unified in their interpretation and timing. Their leadership is crucial for the coordination and emotional impact of the music.

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

To thrive as a Music Conductor, you need a deep understanding of music theory, score reading, and orchestral repertoire, typically demonstrated through advanced music degrees and extensive performance experience. Familiarity with music notation software, rehearsal techniques, and sometimes audio editing tools is often required. Leadership, clear communication, and the ability to inspire and unify musicians are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering cohesive performances, fostering ensemble collaboration, and interpreting musical works authentically.

What are some common challenges music conductors face when leading an orchestra or ensemble?

Music Conductors often face the challenge of uniting musicians with varying skill levels and backgrounds to achieve a cohesive interpretation of a score. Effective communication and time management are essential, as rehearsals must be productive and focused to prepare for performances. Conductors must also balance artistic vision with the practical aspects of working with diverse personalities and resolving any conflicts within the ensemble. Additionally, adapting to different venues and acoustics can require quick adjustments to ensure the music sounds its best.

What is the difference between Music Conductor vs Orchestra Musician?

AspectMusic ConductorOrchestra Musician
Required CredentialsMusic degree, conducting certification (optional)Music degree, instrument proficiency
Work EnvironmentLeading rehearsals and performancesPerforming as part of an ensemble
Employer & Industry UsageOrchestras, choirs, bandsOrchestras, ensembles, bands
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference is that a Music Conductor directs and leads the ensemble, focusing on interpretation and coordination, while an Orchestra Musician performs on their instrument within the group. Conductors shape the overall sound, whereas musicians execute the conductor's vision during performances.

Is a music conductor a hard job?

Being a music conductor is a demanding role that requires strong leadership, musical expertise, and the ability to interpret and communicate complex compositions. Conductors often work long hours rehearsing with orchestras or choirs and must develop excellent listening and coordination skills. The job can be competitive and may involve irregular schedules, but it is rewarding for those with a passion for music and performance.

What job categories do people searching Music Conductor jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Music Conductor jobs in Washington are:

Infographic showing various Music Conductor job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 39% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,033 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Automation Test Engineer

Accenture Federal Services

Washington, DC • On-site

$52 - $68.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Accenture Federal Services rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

47th of 492 rated business services


Job description

You are:

The musical conductor to our automation testing efforts. Your symphony? The project. Your audience? Our clients. "Testing 1-2-3" Your mic check responsibilities include applying business requirements, Testing knowledge and technical expertise in the implementation of test automation suites to validate software application functionality. You love performing hands on design, coding, enhancing, and testing of software applications in order to meet business process requirements.  Critics and audiences are wowed by how you apply your Testing knowledge and technical expertise in the automation and quality engineering efforts of every delivery. And of course, an in-depth understanding of testing, including theory and concepts are music to your ears.

The work:

  • Analyze and identify suitable opportunities for test automation.
  • Develop automation components/modules using appropriate tools and programming languages.
  • Carry out test automation script/cases, identify/log issues, and provide support during issue resolution process.
  • Visualize, design, development, and maintenance of automation frameworks and their implementation.
  • Support test automation solution planning and estimation.
  • Integrate test automation with Continuous Integration / Continuous Delivery.

Here's what you need:

  • Professional work experience with one or more automated testing tools (Playwright, Selenium framework, Worksoft Certify, HP UFT/BPT, Tricentis Tosca)
  • Experience with the software development life cycle and automated testing
  • Experience with API testing
  • Experience in designing / developing a test automation framework
  • Hands on experience with Quality Assurance/Testing (application, product, system, regression testing)
  • Experience with a programming language (VB, VBScript, Java, C#, Ruby, Python)
  • Knowledge of AI-driven testing tools or equivalent testing certification (ISTQB)

Bonus points if you have:

  • Bachelor's in Computer Science, Engineering or Technical Science
  • Previous consulting experience and understanding customer/business needs
  • 508 compliance experience
  • Experience developing test automation scripts in Selenium and/or Cucumber
  • Experience conducting automation tools analysis, selection, and recommendation
  • Experience supporting test automation assessments for multiple projects
  • Experience mobilizing and managing test automation projects (tools, resources, & processes)
  • Experience developing automation frameworks that are leveraged across multiple resources

Eligibility Requirements:

US Citizenship required


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