Music Specialist

Founded in 1867, the Sacramento Children's Home is the oldest active charity in Sacramento and among the most highly respected. We value an inclusive work environment that celebrates and recognizes the diversity of our employees.

About the role

Under the supervision of the Training and Recreation Therapy Manager and with guidance from the Residential supervisory and clinical teams, the RC-Music Specialist provides children with encouragement and exposure to a variety of music-related activities, including individual lessons, musical/singing groups, talent shows, and introduction to musical concepts and games.

Responsibilities

• Music Lessons and Engaging with Children (60%)
  • Assess children’s interest and ability in music.
  • Provide basic instruction on drums, guitar, keyboards, and vocals.
  • Create and implement lesson plans tailored to each child’s needs.
  • Continuously evaluate and adjust lesson plans as needed.
  • Use Love and Logic techniques and Trauma Informed Care in daily interactions.
  • Apply Crisis Management Principles, including restraints when necessary (per Pro-Act training).
• Musical and Singing Groups (10%)
  • Assess children’s interest in different types of groups.
  • Research, plan, schedule, and conduct therapeutic music groups.
  • Lead and supervise groups to meet goals and objectives.
  • Monitor group progress and adjust as necessary.
• Talent Shows, Music Concepts and Games (10%)
  • Provide musical activities to stimulate interest.
  • Plan, organize, implement, and evaluate quarterly talent shows.
  • Maintain discipline and control to ensure each child benefits maximally.
  • Research, plan, coordinate, and lead outings to community-based musical resources.
  • Teach children the rules and skills for musical games and concepts.
• Resident Care (10%)
  • Ensure resident safety at all times, consistent with agency standards.
  • Provide a caring, warm, and consistent environment through clear boundaries, support, and encouragement.
  • Transport children as directed, following agency transport policy.
  • Review the Communication Log daily to stay updated on resident issues and medical orders.
  • Report resident progress to cottage staff during team meetings.
  • Attend and participate in team meetings to facilitate Needs and Services treatment plans.
• Administrative/Other (10%)
  • Complete written documentation per residential program requirements and agency policy.
  • Attend and participate in team meetings and required training (per Community Care Licensing).
  • Maintain and stock music equipment and supplies in a safe condition.
  • Work cooperatively with staff to perform programmatic duties.
  • Adhere to all licensing requirements and agency policies.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• A high school diploma or GED is required, and one of the following:
  • Six months of experience teaching music lessons and planning/coordinating a music program or activities, plus a Bachelor’s degree in any field; or
  • A valid Child Development Teaching Permit; or
  • Completion of 12 semester units in Early Childhood Education, Adolescent Development, Foster and Kinship Care Education, or Psychology; or
  • A valid certificate as an Alcohol Counselor, Drug Counselor, or Alcohol and Drug Counselor; or
  • A valid Vocational Training certificate, credential, or documentation demonstrating trade journeyperson status (with at least 100 hours of experience working with children or adults as a mentor, coach, teacher, or similar role); or
  • One year of full-time employment or volunteer work at a group home, short-term residential therapeutic center, or substance abuse treatment program; or
  • Relevant life experience in child welfare, mental health, or juvenile justice as a consumer, mentor, or caregiver, or with children who have experienced high levels of trauma.
• Must be at least 21 years old.
• Driving is an essential function; a valid driver’s license, minimum insurance coverage, and a personal vehicle are required.
• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Ability to provide instruction and guidance to children.
• Skill to adapt activities to a child’s skill and interest level.
• Knowledge of music history and theory, ability to read music, and proficiency in piano.
• Ability to play drums and guitar.
• Knowledge of community resources for exposing children to music.
• Ability to plan and organize music-related events.
• Skill to engage and develop rapport with children from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to work cooperatively with a culturally diverse resident population and workforce.
• Ability to relate to children in a nurturing and respectful manner while maintaining appropriate boundaries.
• Reliable attendance and punctuality.

Skills

• Teaching music to children.
• Planning and organizing multiple tasks.
• Effective written and oral communication.
• Trauma Informed Care and Crisis Management (including Pro-Act restraint techniques).
• Love and Logic techniques for daily interactions.

Pay

$22.29 – $25.07 per hour, to start.

Schedule

Monday – Friday, 3-5 days per week. Afternoons, under 20 hours except during training. Hours vary.

Benefits

• Retirement plan with company match.
• Sick leave.
• 11 paid holidays.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Professional development and career advancement opportunities.

Location: 2750 Sutterville Rd., Sacramento, CA 95820