Director of Athletic Bands/Low Brass Instructor

Director of Athletic Bands/Low Brass Instructor

Northern State University (NSU) seeks a dynamic educator and conductor to function as Director of Athletic Bands and Instructor of Low Brass. This position is a full-time, non-tenure track position with duties to begin in August 2026. This opportunity requires an energetic, vibrant, and dedicated individual who values student-centered learning, collaborative leadership, community engagement, and can build an active and inclusive athletic band culture that supports NSU campus life and the greater region. The successful candidate will also be expected to establish and maintain positive relationships with secondary school band directors throughout the region that lead to excellent recruitment and retention of students within the NSU Department of Music. The position works collaboratively with the Director of Bands to ensure alignment among athletic bands, concert ensembles, and the broader curricular and co-curricular goals of the department.

Essential Duties

• Direct and manage the NSU Marching Wolves, including pre-fall semester band camp, rehearsals, performances, and game-day operations.
• Direct and manage the NSU Pep Band for men's and women's home basketball games.
• Conduct the NSU Concert Band.
• Select and program music appropriate for athletic venues and institutional traditions.
• Coordinate all logistical aspects of athletic band activities, including scheduling, travel, equipment, uniforms, and facility usage.
• Recruit, train, and supervise student leaders (e.g., drum majors, section leaders).
• Collaborate with NSU Department of Athletics and other campus groups to enhance school spirit and student engagement.
• Provide experienced, individualized applied instruction on all low brass instruments (trombone, euphonium, tuba), as well as brass-related methods courses.
• Coach assorted brass chamber ensembles.
• Teach additional courses as determined by the needs of the music department and candidate expertise.
• Participate in faculty meetings and other selected service activities.

Required Qualifications

• Master of Music or Master of Music Education.
• Demonstrated success in significant program growth directing marching bands, athletic pep bands, and concert bands at the high school or collegiate level.
• Demonstrated excellence in low brass performance and pedagogy.
• Strong conducting, rehearsal, organizational, and leadership skills.
• Additional experience in jazz performance considered a plus.
• Demonstrated communication and organizational skills, and an ability to work collaboratively.

Required Documents

• Cover Letter
• Curriculum Vitae
• Reference List
• Graduate Transcripts

Optional Documents are available upon request.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Northern State University is committed to building a welcoming culture of belonging and collegiality that respects diversity in knowledge, culture and world view. Northern seeks faculty and staff who will engage with individuals of diverse backgrounds, beliefs and perspectives to increase awareness, understanding, respect and opportunity for all.

Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Contact Information

South Dakota Board of Regents
306 E. Capital Ave, Suite 200
Pierre, SD 57501

Notice to applicants

If you are selected as a finalist, job references and a background check may be conducted.