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Organist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ladgov Corporation

Pianist / Organist

Tuskegee, AL · On-site

Pianist / Organist Job Type: Part-Time Job Location: 2400 Hospital Road, Tuskegee, AL 36083 Qualifications: * Demonstrated proficiency in piano performance; ability to play organ is highly desirable.

First Presbyterian Church of Sugar Land

Be Seen First

Church Organist / Pianist

Sugar Land, TX · On-site

$20K/yr

The Church Organist / Pianist acts to conduct successfully the church music program by providing professional, technical, and managerial expertise in the following areas: Job Description ...

Archdiocese of Detroit

Organist

Hamtramck, MI · On-site

Providing services to support the priest in solidum with oversight for the administration of Our Lady Queen of Apostles, the organist is responsible for the selection, preparation, and execution of ...

Archdiocese of Detroit

Organist

Hamtramck, MI · On-site

Providing services to support the priest in solidum with oversight for the administration of Our Lady Queen of Apostles, the organist is responsible for the selection, preparation, and execution of ...

Good Shepherd Parish

Organist/Keyboardist

Lyman, ME · On-site

Good Shepherd Parish seeks an organist/keyboardist for the 4:00pm Saturday Mass in one of two locations: Saint Philip Church in Lyman or Most Holy Trinity Church in Saco. Opportunities are also ...

Ladgov Corporation

Catholic Organist

Quantico, VA · On-site

Minimum 5+ years current experience as a Catholic organist in a parish or military chapel. * Minimum 4+ years organ performance experience. * Formal organ training (college-level training acceptable)

Ladgov Corporation

Pianist / Organist

Tuskegee, AL · On-site

Pianist / Organist Job Type: Part-Time Job Location: 2400 Hospital Road, Tuskegee, AL 36083 Qualifications: * Demonstrated proficiency in piano performance; ability to play organ is highly desirable.

Ladgov Corporation

Catholic Organist

Quantico, VA · On-site

Minimum 5+ years current experience as a Catholic organist in a parish or military chapel. * Minimum 4+ years organ performance experience. * Formal organ training (college-level training acceptable)

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Organist information

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$48.5K

$55.4K

$67.5K

How much do organist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for organist in the United States is $55,404.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $61,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges organists face when adapting to different instruments and venues?

Organists often encounter challenges when playing on unfamiliar organs, as each instrument varies in size, layout, and tonal qualities. Adjusting to different pedalboards, manuals, and registration systems can require quick adaptability and careful preparation before performances or services. Additionally, acoustics in various venues may impact timing and sound projection, making rehearsals in the actual space essential. Successful organists develop strong listening skills and flexibility to ensure high-quality performances regardless of the setting.

Is there a shortage of church organists?

There is a moderate demand for church organists, especially in areas with active religious communities. Many positions require proficiency with pipe organs or electronic organs, and some churches face challenges finding experienced musicians, leading to ongoing opportunities for qualified candidates.

What does an organist do?

An organist is a musician who plays the organ, an instrument commonly found in churches, concert halls, and some theaters. Their primary responsibilities include performing music during religious services, weddings, funerals, and special events, as well as accompanying choirs or leading congregational singing. In some settings, organists also select appropriate music, rehearse with vocal groups, and maintain the instrument. Skilled organists must be adept at reading music, improvising, and adapting to different musical styles. They often play a vital role in enhancing the atmosphere and emotional resonance of ceremonies and performances.

What is the difference between Organist vs Choir Director?

AspectOrganistChoir Director
Required CredentialsMusic degree or certification, organ proficiencyMusic degree, conducting skills, choir directing experience
Work EnvironmentChurches, concert halls, religious eventsChurches, schools, community groups
Employer & Industry UsageReligious institutions, concert venuesReligious institutions, educational settings
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles of church musiciansLearning about leadership in church music

While both roles involve church music, an Organist primarily plays the organ for services and events, focusing on performance skills. A Choir Director leads and trains the choir, emphasizing conducting and vocal coaching. Both require musical expertise and often work together in religious settings, but their responsibilities differ in focus and skill set.

How much does an organist earn?

The average salary for an organist varies depending on experience, location, and employment setting, but typically ranges from $25,000 to $70,000 annually. Professional organists often work in churches, concert halls, or as freelancers, and additional income may come from teaching or special performances.

What jobs can I get if I like music?

If you enjoy music, you can pursue careers such as an organist, music teacher, sound engineer, music producer, or music therapist. These roles often require musical skills, knowledge of instruments or sound equipment, and sometimes formal education or certification in music or audio technology.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Organist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Organist, you need strong musical proficiency, sight-reading ability, and a solid background in music theory, often supported by formal music education or a degree in organ performance. Familiarity with various organ models, registration techniques, and music notation software is beneficial, as are credentials like the American Guild of Organists (AGO) certification. Excellent timing, adaptability, and effective communication skills help an organist collaborate with choirs, clergy, and congregations. These competencies ensure high-quality performances, seamless coordination during services, and the ability to support diverse musical and liturgical needs.

What Does an Organist Do?

As an organist, your main responsibilities are to play the organ and to maintain it in proper working order. Organists work in a wide variety of settings, including at churches and sports stadiums, such as baseball parks or hockey arenas. Some organists are touring musicians and may specialize in specific types of organs, such as the Hammond B3 or the Wurlitzer. Your duties differ depending on your position. A church organist, for example, may accompany a choir or play music for specific rituals. A traveling musician may write original music.

How much should a church organist be paid?

The pay for a church organist varies depending on location, experience, and the size of the congregation, but typically ranges from $50 to $200 per service or a yearly salary of $20,000 to $50,000. Many church organists are paid hourly or per event, and additional compensation may include benefits or stipends for special occasions. Certification in music and experience with pipe organs can influence pay rates.
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Organist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Organist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 30% Full Time, and 70% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $55,404 per year, or $26.6 per hour.
Substitute Organist

Substitute Organist

Archdiocese of St. Louis

Saint Charles, MO • On-site

Full-time

PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

The Archdiocese of St. Louis strives to teach and share our faith, serve others, and foster unity throughout the St. Louis area. Once a part of Kenrick-Glennon Seminary's campus, the Cardinal Rigali Center in Shrewsbury, MO is today the headquarters and curia (governing body) for the Archdiocese of St. Louis.
Job Summary
St. Peter Catholic Church in St. Charles is seeking a faith-filled, skilled, and dependable Substitute Organist/Accompanist to provide musical leadership and accompaniment for liturgies, rehearsals, and other parish music ministry needs on an as-needed basis. The ideal candidate possesses strong keyboard performance skills, experience supporting congregational singing, and a commitment to enhancing the prayerful and reverent celebration of the liturgy through sacred music.
Job Responsibilities
  • Serve as organist and/or accompanist for weekend Masses, holy days, funerals, weddings, and other liturgical celebrations as needed.
  • Accompany choir rehearsals, cantor rehearsals, and special music events when requested.
  • Collaborate with the Director of Music Ministry, cantors, choir members, and parish staff to support effective liturgical music planning and execution.
  • Lead and support congregational singing with confidence, sensitivity, and appropriate musical interpretation.
  • Provide accompaniment for hymns, psalms, service music, and other liturgical repertoire.
  • Adapt to varying musical and liturgical needs while maintaining a prayerful, reverent atmosphere.
  • Arrive prepared and on time for all assigned liturgies and rehearsals.

Job Requirements
  • Proficiency in organ and/or piano performance required.
  • Previous experience accompanying choirs, cantors, or liturgical ensembles preferred.
  • Knowledge of Catholic liturgy, liturgical seasons, and traditional Catholic hymnody required.
  • Strong sight-reading and accompaniment skills preferred.
  • Reliable, flexible, and able to respond to occasional scheduling needs.
  • Excellent interpersonal and collaborative skills.
  • Practicing Catholic preferred.

The Archdiocese of St. Louis is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital, parental, veteran or disability status.
Pre-Employment Screening
All candidates receiving an employment offer must submit a pre-employment screening. The screening will include criminal background check, Family Care Safety Registration, drug screen, employment and educational licensure/certification verification, health screening, and any other screenings deemed necessary for employment. Any offer would be contingent upon successful completion of any required screening.
Our Mission
We are a unique community-diverse in our talent, but unified in our drive to create together, face challenges together and grow together. Our values push us to empower, propel and inspire new ways of turning possibilities into realities. Our competencies define the behaviors that guide who we are, how we are inspired and how we inspire of others to succeed.
Benefits
Work/life balance is so important to the archdiocese. After all, our business is about making life easier and better-and we want that for you and your career just as much as our consumers and their day-to-day lives. That's why we offer flexible working times, remote working options, generous paid vacation increasing with service, and personal leaves of absence.
As well as being able to make the most of life at home, you'll also be able to contribute to the Archdiocese sponsored volunteer events. You can discover more about who we're working with near you, and you can always ask us more about this at events and interviews-we love to see how passionate our people are about giving back.

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