Associate Director of Sacred Music

Cottleville, MO, US, 63304-7686

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

The Associate Director of Sacred Music supports the Director of Sacred Music in planning, preparing, and providing liturgical music that enhances the worship life of the parish in fidelity to the teachings, traditions, and liturgical norms of the Roman Catholic Church. The position involves collaboration with clergy, musicians, choir members, and parish staff to cultivate a vibrant sacred music program rooted in beauty, reverence, and participation.

Job Responsibilities

  • Assist in planning and providing music for all parish liturgies, including Sunday Masses, Holy Days, weddings, funerals, and special liturgical celebrations.

  • Accompany and/or conduct parish choirs (adult, youth, schola, or contemporary ensembles as assigned).

  • Rehearse and direct choirs, cantors, and instrumentalists.

  • Select music in accordance with the liturgical calendar, Roman Catholic liturgical norms, and parish musical guidelines.

  • Promote the use of sacred music traditions such as Gregorian chant, polyphony, and quality contemporary liturgical music.

  • Collaborate with the Director of Sacred Music and Pastor to implement the parish’s vision for liturgical music.

  • Recruit and mentor volunteer musicians and cantors.

  • Maintain music library, instruments, and audio equipment in collaboration with the Director.

  • Assist with musical education and spiritual formation of parish musicians.

  • Support the music ministry’s role in fostering congregational participation in worship.

Job Requirements

  • Bachelor's Degree in Music, Sacred Music, or related field 

  • Proficiency in keyboard (organ and/or piano) and choral conducting required.

  • Knowledge of Roman Catholic liturgy and sacred music traditions.

  • Familiarity with Church documents such as Sacrosanctum Concilium, Musicam Sacram, and Sing to the Lord.

  • Practicing Catholic in good standing who supports the mission of the Church.

  • Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.

  • Ability to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, and Holy Days.

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.