Adjunct Faculty Director of Lab Band at Harper College in Palatine, IL

The Department of Music at Harper College invites applications for an adjunct position as the Director of Jazz Lab Band. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse educational experience that fosters creativity, expression, and a supportive musical community for students of varying cultures, backgrounds, and interests. We maintain a proud level of academic excellence. Our goal is to build academic and creative career paths for our students with opportunities to find representation and identity in their musical studies. Ensemble directors are therefore expected to possess expertise in their performance area and teach students on both the credit and non-credit sides, i.e., the Music Department and Community Education. They are also expected to explore non-western musical traditions and performance practices to reflect the changing demographics and comply with Harper’s commitments by including diverse teaching materials and repertoire. Other responsibilities include organizing performances and ensuring student participation. They may also be asked to participate in outreach and recruitment events. We care greatly about our surrounding community and have created a place for members to craft their musical interests into fruitful careers, personal enrichment, and stronger engagement with music.

Responsibilities of the position: 

• Teach/lead the Jazz Lab Band
• Create arrangements specific to the group’s enrollment each semester
• Curate, host, and attend Lab Band concerts and events such as the Harper Jazz Invitational, Jazz Fest, Jazz Faculty Concerts, etc. 
• Infuse technology into pedagogical approaches to teaching
• Apply fundamental musical skills such as theory, ear training, and arranging into to teaching pedagogy

Priority will be given to applications received by June 8^th, 2026.

Education Requirements: A master's degree in Music or a master's degree in a related field with at least 18 graduate credit hours in Music. Demonstrated pedagogical skills and above average competence as a performing professional musician.

Experience Requirements: Preference will be given to applicants who have previous experience teaching as an ensemble director and instructor of core courses such as music theory, aural skills, etc.

Required Documents: ***A resume and cover letter are required to complete the application process***

* Official transcripts required upon hire 
* Employment is contingent upon Criminal Background Check.

* Employment sponsorship is not available.

Starting Pay Rate: $1283 per contact hour

• $55 per hour of private lesson instruction. 

Applicable Benefits: We offer a competitive, semester by semester adjunct pay, with Harper tuition waivers, sick/personal business leave, and a comprehensive Adjunct Faculty Professional Development Program.

Harper College is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strive to create an inclusive learning and working environment where individual differences and identities are respected, valued and embraced. We encourage women, people from historically underrepresented groups, individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply.