Director of Gospel Choir

Oakhurst Presbyterian Church (PCUSA) Decatur, Georgia

Oakhurst Presbyterian Church is a welcoming, inclusive, and justice-oriented congregation committed to embodying God’s love in our community. Our worship reflects a blend of traditions and expressions, and we seek leaders who can help us grow in creativity, authenticity, and spiritual depth.

We are seeking a passionate, gifted, and collaborative Director of Gospel Choir to lead and nurture a vibrant music ministry that reflects the diversity, energy, and spiritual depth of our congregation. This part-time position provides musical leadership for the Gospel Choir in worship and special services, helping to cultivate a spirit of excellence, inclusivity, and joyful praise.

The Director will work closely with the Head of Staff, worship leadership, and music ministry team to ensure that music aligns with the theological themes and liturgical flow of worship.

Position Details

  • ● Status: Part-time (approx. 6–10 hours/week)

  • ● Salary: $14,000- $17,000 per year, commensurate with experience

  • ● Reports to: Head of Staff

  • ● Regular availability required:

    • o Weekly rehearsals (typically evenings)

    • o 2nd and 4th Sundays (or as designated)

    • o Additional services and special events (e.g., holidays, concerts)

Core Responsibilities

Musical Leadership

  • ● Direct the Gospel Choir for scheduled worship services (typically twice per month)

  • ● Plan, teach, and lead weekly rehearsals

  • ● Select music that reflects the diversity of gospel traditions, including traditional, contemporary, and multicultural expressions

  • ● Ensure music supports the liturgical calendar and sermon themes in collaboration with pastoral staff

Worship Collaboration

  • ● Work closely with the Head of Staff and worship team to integrate music seamlessly into services

  • ● Coordinate with sound/AV team and musicians for worship readiness

  • ● Collaborate with other music ministries (e.g., Chancel Choir, guest musicians) as needed

Choir Development & Care

  • ● Recruit, develop, and retain choir members

  • ● Foster a welcoming, spiritually enriching, and musically excellent environment

  • ● Provide vocal coaching and musical instruction to enhance choir performance

  • ● Encourage participation across generations and backgrounds

Administration & Coordination

  • ● Communicate regularly with choir members regarding rehearsals, music, and expectations

  • ● Plan for seasonal and special worship services (Advent, Lent, Easter, etc.)

  • ● Coordinate with the Office Manager to ensure the worship service bulletin reflects accurate song selections

  • ● Coordinate additional choir appearances when requested and approved

Qualifications

Required

  • ● Strong musical ability, including vocal leadership and piano or keyboard accompaniment

  • ● Ability to read music and teach parts effectively

  • ● Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

  • ● Strong organizational and time-management skills

  • ● Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented church environment

Preferred

  • ● Minimum 2 years of experience directing a gospel choir or similar ensemble

  • ● Experience working in diverse and multicultural congregations

  • ● Background in church music ministry or theological training

Apply at personnel@oakhurstpresbyterian.org

We are seeking someone who not only leads music, but cultivates a community of joy, belonging, and spiritual expression through song. We value collaborative, relational leadership and welcome candidates who bring diverse perspectives and approaches to ministry.

Oakhurst Presbyterian Church is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive community and encourages applications from persons of all races, ethnicities, genders, gender identities, sexual orientations, ages, abilities, and life experiences. We seek to reflect the fullness of the body of Christ in our leadership and strive to cultivate a community where all feel welcomed, respected, and valued.

We recognize that there are many pathways into ministry and welcome candidates with a variety of experiences. Relevant skills, lived experience, and a demonstrated sense of call will all be considered.

In accordance with the principles of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), we are an equal opportunity employer and make employment decisions based on qualifications, experience, and sense of call, without discrimination. We are also committed to accessibility in our search process and welcome the opportunity to provide accommodations to support full participation at any stage.