Position Description:

The Pep Band Director will lead and grow the Valparaiso University athletic band program while also contributing to broader institutional goals. This full-time position is evenly divided between:

1. Athletic Band Leadership (50%) – Directing all facets of the pep band program, including recruitment, instruction, performance planning, and student leadership development.
2. Strategic Additional Responsibilities (50%) – Based on the candidate’s qualifications and institutional needs, this portion of the role will focus on one or more of the following areas: student recruitment and admissions support, student success programming, club sports administration, athletic facility operations, and/or game/event management.

This dual-role position is ideal for an individual who is both musically proficient and versatile in supporting student engagement and university operations beyond music.

Major Responsibilities:

• Athletic Band Leadership – 50%
  • Facilitate the direction and organization of the university athletic pep band program.
  • Lead and manage the university’s pep band program, including rehearsals, performances, and game day support.
  • Recruit and retain highly talented students for the band program.
  • Arrange or adapt music appropriate for a collegiate pep band.
  • Collaborate with campus partners to elevate school spirit and create a vibrant game-day atmosphere.
  • Serve as a mentor and role model to students and foster a positive learning environment.
  • Participate in campus events and represent the band program in the community.
  • Maintain compliance with all institutional policies and safety protocols.
• Additional Strategic Duties – 50% (Assigned based on qualifications and institutional need in one or more of the following areas):
  • Student Recruitment: Serve as admissions counselor, assist with admissions events, tours, and outreach efforts.
  • Student Success: Coordinate programming or serve in a role focused on academic support and/or personal development.
  • Club Sports Operations: Support the administration, scheduling, and oversight of elite club sport programs.
  • Event Management: Assist with the planning and execution of athletic and university events.
  • Facilities Maintenance Camp Support: Contribute to operations within athletic facilities.

Required Knowledge and Skills:

• Strong musical skills, including knowledge of band instruments and arranging or transposing music.
• Excelled communication, leadership and organizational skills with the ability to handle administrative tasks.
• Ability to plan and lead rehearsals and performances.
• Ability to take initiative, work collaboratively in a fast-paced team environment, and manage multiple priorities.
• Commitment to fostering a positive and supportive learning environment and to preparing students to lead and serve.
• Ability to work extended days, weekends and holidays. Limited travel required.

Other Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Music or related field, or equivalent experience.
• Experience with college athletics and pep band traditions.
  
  
  

All offers of employment with Valparaiso University are contingent upon the clear results of a thorough background check. Background checks may include criminal history, motor vehicle reports, prior employment verification, and personal/professional references. If applicable to the position, they will also include credit history. Background checks will be conducted on all final candidates for employment.

To be considered for this position, you must upload:

Cover letter

Resume

List of 3 professional references

Answer all application questions

Please address the cover letter to:

Erica Jessen, Asst Ath Dir for Marketing & Ticket Operations

Valparaiso University