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Music Library Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Chapman University

Wind Symphony Librarian

Orange, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

... Library Responsibilities Assist with audition preparations during the summer Prepare music: taping, printing, editing, organizing, transposing, errata correction, and arranging Organize and care for ...

Fremantle US

Coordinator, Music Administration

Burbank, CA · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

... library database, processing cue sheets and assisting in all other items relating to the music ... needs. * Assist music supervisor in finding music for series * Assist with music licensing and ...

Colburn

Performance Librarian

Los Angeles, CA

Hires, trains and supervises student workers to assist with librarian functions and music ... Prepares the annual music and library supply budget including all costs and fees for music ...

Colburn

Performance Librarian

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Hires, trains and supervises student workers to assist with librarian functions and music ... Prepares the annual music and library supply budget including all costs and fees for music ...

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All JobsMusic Library JobsMusic Library Assistant JobsMusic Library Assistant Jobs in California

Music Library Assistant information

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$8

$18

$27

How much do music library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for music library assistant in California is $18.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Music Library Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Music Library Assistant, you need a background in music, strong organizational skills, and attention to detail, often supported by a degree in music or library science. Familiarity with library cataloging systems, digital archiving tools, and databases such as MARC or WorldCat is typically required. Excellent interpersonal skills, customer service abilities, and problem-solving help you assist patrons and collaborate with colleagues effectively. These skills and qualities enable efficient management of music collections and ensure users can access materials smoothly.

What are some common challenges faced by Music Library Assistants, and how can they be addressed?

Music Library Assistants often encounter challenges such as efficiently cataloging diverse music formats, managing special collections, and assisting patrons with specialized research requests. Staying organized and familiar with cataloging systems like MARC and RDA can help manage these tasks effectively. Additionally, building strong communication skills and collaborating closely with librarians and faculty can ensure patrons receive accurate information and resources promptly. Continuous learning about new music technologies and archival practices also supports success in this dynamic environment.

What does a Music Library Assistant do?

A Music Library Assistant helps manage and organize music collections in libraries, universities, or other institutions. Their tasks typically include cataloging music scores, recordings, and related materials, assisting patrons in locating and borrowing music resources, and maintaining the library's database. They may also help with shelving, handling circulation duties, and supporting librarians with special projects or events. Strong organizational skills and a knowledge of music are often important for this role.

What is the difference between Music Library Assistant vs Music Archivist?

AspectMusic Library AssistantMusic Archivist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer associate's degreeBachelor's or master's degree in library science, musicology, or related field
Work EnvironmentLibraries, educational institutions, music departmentsArchives, museums, specialized music collections
Primary ResponsibilitiesOrganizing music collections, cataloging, assisting patronsPreserving, cataloging, and managing historical music collections
Industry UsageCommon in educational and public library settingsFound in archival institutions and specialized music repositories

The main difference is that a Music Library Assistant primarily supports day-to-day library operations and assists users, while a Music Archivist focuses on preserving and managing historical music collections. Both roles require knowledge of music and cataloging, but the Archivist typically has more advanced credentials and works in specialized settings.

What are popular job titles related to Music Library Assistant jobs in California? For Music Library Assistant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Music Library Assistant jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Music Library Assistant jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Music Library Assistant jobs? Cities in California with the most Music Library Assistant job openings:
Music Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Music Library Assistant job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, and 52% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,350 per year, or $18.4 per hour.
Music Planning Associate & Opera Librarian

Music Planning Associate & Opera Librarian

SAN FRANCISCO OPERA ASSOCIATION

San Francisco, CA

$33 - $38/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

PURPOSE:To operate and maintain the San Francisco Opera Music Library for the use and support of the company; to provide accurate production materials including scores, libretti, audio/visual resources, and source materials; to assist Music Planning Manager with supertitle operations, cuts, editions, and with any other means of support as needed.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

  • Under direction of the Music Planning Manager, assist with research pertaining to cuts, editions, and banda, as well as other music administration projects as needed.
  • Under direction of the Music Planning Manager, create supertitle scripts and cueing scores.
  • Undertake detailed score preparation and editing projects for company use.
  • Coordinate Company keyboard needs.
  • Oversee, maintain, and administer a growing music library collection, both physical and digital, including piano/vocal scores, art song collections, vocal excerpts, reference and research books, audio/visual materials, and supertitle scripts and cueing scores.
  • Acquire, create, distribute, and track production materials for the company, including audio/visual materials, scores, and libretti of current and upcoming productions.
  • Maintain a digital/online catalogue of all above-mentioned materials for use of the company.
  • Work with Archives Department to maintain archival audio/video collection of SFO performances and rehearsals.
  • Maintain stock of music-related office supplies such as score-quality paper and binding materials.
  • Make audio/visual materials, including AppleTV units, available for artists and staff.
  • Maintain library materials of all descriptions; repair and bind materials, re-file them each day; keep inventory.
  • Assist company members and visiting artists in locating requested materials.Track materials taken out of the library.
  • Work with Archives Department to continue digitizing SFO CDs, DVDs, study vocal scores, and library catalogue; including reel-to-reel, BETA, cassette and DAT audio recordings; libretti; word-for-word translations and other reference materials.
  • Assist other departments with selection of musical clips.
  • Serve as Supertitle Caller for up to 4 productions per year, for an additional per-service fee.

SECONDARY FUNCTIONS:

  • Handle calls and visits from staff and general public.
  • Initiate and maintain professional relationships with other libraries and librarians for purposes of lending, borrowing and interlibrary loan agreements.
  • Perform other work-related duties as assigned.

EDUCATION:

  • Bachelor's degree in music highly preferred, Master's desirable, or other applicable work experience.

EXPERIENCE:

  • Minimum of three (3) years professional experience in the classical music field.

PREREQUISITE SKILLS & REQUIREMENTS:

  • Extensive knowledge of operatic literature essential.
  • Meticulous attention to detail and accuracy in daily work.
  • Basic working knowledge of Italian, French, and German (other languages and fluency desirable).
  • Ability to read music with a base knowledge of music theory.
  • Working familiarity with library-related and music fields desirable.
  • Knowledge of or ability to learn Sibelius music writing program for transposition requirements.
  • Ability to utilize electric binder.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
  • Ability to work independently; prioritize tasks; and exercise good judgment and initiative.
  • Ability to manage multiple, competing priorities successfully.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, rapidly changing environment.
  • Outstanding interpersonal skills including the ability to interact with all staff in a professional, confidential and tactful manner.
  • Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing.
  • Must perform the functions of the position in a safe manner.

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