Music Teaching Artist - Middle School (South Ozone Park)

South Asian Youth Action Inc.•New York, NY

28d•$30 - $45•Onsite

About The Position

South Asian Youth Action (SAYA) is hiring a part-time Music Activity Specialist to teach middle school students at MS 124 in South Ozone Park, Queens. The specialist will teach fundamental principles of instrumental learning and musicianship, select appropriate music and instructional resources, and use effective strategies to engage youth in music. The role involves designing age-appropriate lessons that support social-emotional learning, skill development, and collaboration, while maintaining a safe and positive classroom environment. This is an in-person position during the school year, from September through June, with the potential for rehire for summer and the following year. The position requires availability 2–5 days per week and reports to the Program Director. Compensation is $30–$45 per hour, commensurate with experience and qualifications. SAYA describes the role as offering autonomy in developing projects and curricula, opportunities for professional growth, and access to external opportunities.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required; a bachelor's degree or current college enrollment preferred.
At least two years of academic preparation in music performance and/or music theory, or equivalent training.
Knowledge and understanding of youth development, after-school programming, and public education.
Ability to collaborate and manage multiple priorities, people, and projects effectively.
Experience providing individualized and group instruction to youth with varying skill levels.
Experience designing and teaching courses that support youth success and youth-centered learning.
Enthusiasm for developing professional skills through training opportunities and field practice.
Compliance with School Age Child Care (SACC) requirements, including a background check and medical clearance.
Effective communication with youth, teachers, school administrators, parents, and staff; ability to work with the school community and other SAYA programs and consider multiple perspectives to avoid and manage conflict.
Flexibility in adapting to changing circumstances and working with youth from varied cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree or current college enrollment.

Responsibilities

Supervise activities to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of program participants.
Develop age-appropriate music lesson plans and themes that support social-emotional learning, build skills, and encourage collaboration.
Facilitate purposeful, engaging, creative, and responsive activities that help youth develop new skills.
Manage the classroom and maintain a positive learning environment.
Build positive relationships with youth and adults and serve as a role model in demeanor, communication, and attitude.
Care for program spaces and materials, organize the room, and report misused or damaged materials to the Program Director.
Complete and submit program-related reports on time, including supply requests, lesson plans, incident reports, attendance, and timesheets.
Assist the Program Coordinator with ordering and maintaining equipment and supplies.
Participate in training sessions, designated meetings, and special events.