We use cookies. Find out more about it here. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.
#alert
Back to search results
New

Director of Special Music Programs - School of Music - College of Fine Arts

Carnegie Mellon University
vision insurance, paid time off
United States, Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh
5000 Forbes Avenue (Show on map)
Aug 04, 2025

The School of Music is searching for a Director of Special Music Programs. This is an exciting opportunity for someone with senior administrative experience who thrives in an academic work environment and has a passion for music! This Director will be responsible for the overall leadership of the Music Preparatory School and Music Extension Division to ensure their smooth operations and continued high quality of instruction. The normal schedule for this position is Tuesday - Saturday, 8:30am - 5pm.

About the Carnegie Mellon Music Preparatory School and Music Extension Division:

The Carnegie Mellon Music Preparatory School is a dynamic pre-college program where professional musicians and educators inspire and train talented young musicians from across the Pittsburgh region. Serving students ages 4 to 18, the program is rooted in the belief that comprehensive, high-quality music education can transform lives and foster lifelong artistic growth. The curriculum pairs individualized instruction in piano, strings (violin, viola, cello, double bass), guitar, voice, and percussion with a broad spectrum of group classes, including Dalcroze Eurhythmics, Musicianship, Theory and Composition, and Jazz & Improvisation. The Preparatory School is an integral part of the Carnegie Mellon School of Music, offering aspiring young artists a strong foundation in both technical proficiency and creative expression.

The Music Extension Division serves Carnegie Mellon students who are not music majors but wish to begin or continue their musical studies through private instruction and group classes. Together, the Preparatory School and Extension Division extend the School of Music's educational mission to the broader university and regional community.

Core responsibilities will include:

  • Answering questions regarding Music Extension and Music Prep School registration, curriculum, and related issues.

  • Maintaining program records, reports, student records and associated databases.

  • Managing course enrollments for students in the Music Extension Division.

  • Coordinating scheduling and logistics for lessons, classes, rehearsals, interviews, and recitals, in coordination with appropriate School of Music staff.

  • Assessing future program changes/additions and faculty needs with Music Prep School division heads

  • Collaborating with the School of Music marketing team on advertising initiatives for both the Prep School and Music Extension Divisions.

  • Administering HR functions for both the Music Extension Division and Music Prep School, including creating and distributing annual contracts to faculty, hiring and onboarding student workers, administering payroll, and liaising between faculty/student workers and central HR as needed.

  • Maintaining the Special Music Program Office's yearly PCI compliance with the CMU Treasurer's Office.

  • Overseeing tuition collection and recording for the Music Prep School and Music Extension Division, including tracking of all revenue received and outstanding.

  • Collaborating with the College of Fine Arts advancement team on stewardship efforts with current and potential donors sponsoring Music Prep School scholarships. This includes preparing student demographic data and collecting testimonials from students, parents, and teachers to share with donors.

  • Maintains and updates the online registration system as needed.

  • Other duties as assigned.

You must demonstrate:

  • Ability to pay close attention to detail; keep and maintain accurate and detailed reports and records.

  • Ability to maintain composure when dealing with difficult situations and/or individuals.

  • Ability to meet deadlines; work under pressure and with frequent interruptions.

  • Ability to understand and follow directions.

  • Ability to prioritize work and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

Flexibility, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within the School of Music. Inclusion, collaboration and cultural sensitivity are valued competencies at CMU. Therefore, we are in search of a team member who is able to effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree required (or equivalent combination of training and experience). A bachelor's degree in a music-related field is a plus.

  • Administrative Support experience, higher education and/or K-12 related experience

  • A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

  • Priority will be given to applications received by August 15

Requirements:

  • Successful Background Check

  • Act 153 child protection clearances

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.

Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.

Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it's about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

Location

Pittsburgh, PA

Job Function

Academic Program Administration

Position Type

Staff - Regular

Full Time/Part time

Full time

Pay Basis

Salary

More Information:

  • Please visit "Why Carnegie Mellon" to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.

  • Click here to view a listing of employee benefits

  • Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.

  • Statement of Assurance

Applied = 0

(web-6886664d94-5gz94)