Human Resources

Job Description Summary

The Department of Visual and Performing Arts at Michigan Technological University seeks a dynamic conductor-educator to fill the position of instructional-track assistant teaching professor of music (Director of Bands) starting August 2024. The position entails directing a growing and innovative band program that includes conducting an auditioned wind symphony, a large jazz ensemble, and advising a 250-member student-led pep band. Other activities include teaching courses in music and coaching jazz combos.

The successful candidate will demonstrate a high level of conducting ability, thorough knowledge of the band repertoire, experience in playing and directing jazz, experience in recruitment and retention, proven ability to innovate and grow a successful band program, and a strong commitment to music education.

Michigan Tech attracts world-class faculty and staff who enrich the educational experience of smart, motivated, and adventurous students. Applicants who are committed to promoting a sense of belonging and contributing to an equitable and inclusive learning environment for all are strongly encouraged to apply (https://www.mtu.edu/diversity-inclusion/).

Essential Duties & Responsibilities (other duties may be assigned)

1. Conduct Superior Wind Symphony
2. Conduct R&D Jazz Band
3. Advise student-led Huskies Pep Band
4. Coach jazz combos
5. Teach music courses as needed

Required Education, Certifications, Licensures (minimum requirements)

DMA or PhD in music completed by August 2024, or equivalent experience

Required Experience (minimum requirements)

Evidence of excellence in conducting and teaching at the university or secondary level (minimum 3-5 years)

Desirable Education and/or Experience

• DMA or PHD in Music
• 3-5 years of experience teaching at the university level
• Ability to play and teach jazz
• Professional conducting experience
• Evidence of a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace

Required Knowledge, Skills, and/or Abilities (minimum requirements)

• Excellence in rehearsing and conducting wind ensemble
• Experience directing a jazz ensemble
• Experience with improvisation
• Demonstrated organizational, managerial, and supervisory skills
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment
• Knowledge of current music trends, technologies, and skills
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively

Desirable Knowledge, Skills, and/or Abilities

• Experience mentoring staff or students
• Advanced jazz improvisation skills
• Advanced skills on a woodwind, brass, or percussion instrument
• Advanced knowledge related to jazz education
• Demonstrated success in, or potential future contributions to, working with persons from diverse backgrounds, creating a sense of belonging, and fostering a fair, objective, welcoming place to work for persons with a wide variety of personal characteristics and viewpoints.

Language, Mathematics and/or Reasoning Skills

Work Environment and/or Physical Demands

The work environment is that of a typical office and/or music ensemble setting.

Required Training and Other Conditions of Employment

Every employee at Michigan Technological University will receive the following 4 required trainings; additional training may be required by the department.

Required University Training:

• Employee Safety Overview

• Anti-Harassment, Discrimination, Retaliation Training

• Annual Data Security Training 

• Annual Title IX Training

Background Check:

Offers of employment are contingent upon and not considered finalized until the required background check has been performed and the results received and assessed.

Other Conditions of Employment:

The successful applicant will be responsible for ensuring eligibility for employment in the United States on or before the effective date of the appointment.  This is not an E-Verified Position.

1

FLSA Status

Exempt

Appointment Term

9 months

Shift

Pay Rate/Salary

Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Title of Position Supervisor

Department Chair

Posting Type

Dependent on Funding

Special Instructions to Applicants (if applicable)

Applicants will apply online at http://www.employment.mtu.edu/cw/en-us/job/493408 and will need to upload the following documents:
• Cover letter
• Curriculum vitae
• Document with You Tube or Google Drive link of conducting in both performance and rehearsal (no longer than 20 minutes) and performing on your chosen instrument (no longer than 10 minutes).

We strongly encourage applicants to address the required and desired qualifications in their cover letter along with an explanation of how they will contribute to the Vision and Mission of Michigan Tech.

Applicants will be asked to provide names and contact information for three references as part of the application process.

Questions may be addressed to Search Committee Chair, Adam Meckler, at abmeckle@mtu.edu.

Applications that arrive by December 1 will receive maximal consideration. However, late applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Additional Information

Michigan Technological University, one of the four major research universities in the State of Michigan, is located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula adjacent to Lake Superior. The community offers a small-town environment with outstanding four-season recreational opportunities. Michigan Tech is located in Houghton, MI on the south shore of Lake Superior.

Michigan Tech is proud to be an ADVANCE Institution that has thrice received National Science Foundation support to increase diversity, inclusion, and the participation and advancement of women and underrepresented individuals in STEM. 

Michigan Tech recognizes the importance of supporting faculty members’ partners; candidates selected for on-campus interviews will be invited to bring a guest. 

Michigan Technological University is an Equal Opportunity Educational Institution/Equal Opportunity Employer, that provides equal opportunity for all, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.