Level 2 Strings Teaching Assistant

POSITION: Level 2 Strings Teaching Assistant

SITE: Carver Elementary School, 6160 Jefferson Ave., Newport News, VA

STATUS: Part-Time, Hourly, Non-Exempt

PAY AND BENEFITS: $18/hour, paid semi-monthly; paid time off, employee dental insurance, paid holidays, and SIMPLE IRA with employer match

EMPLOYMENT PERIOD: September 21, 2026-May 27, 2027

SCHEDULE: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, 3:45-6:45 PM. Preservice professional development is September 21-24, 2026, from 4:00-6:00 PM, with staff reporting at 3:45 PM. Student programming runs September 28, 2026-May 24, 2027. Carver students participate from 4:00-6:00 PM; DSA Level 2 students join later and continue through 6:30 PM. Additional professional development, performances, field trips, family events, and special activities are required as scheduled.

ELIGIBILITY: Applicants must be at least 16 years old by September 21, 2026 and must play violin, viola, cello, or string bass. Priority consideration will be given to students actively participating in a Soundscapes program.

REPORTS TO: Level 2 Strings Director and Peninsula Program Manager

CLOSE DATE: Until filled

ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY

The Level 2 Strings Teaching Assistant role is a paid developmental employment opportunity for a Soundscapes string student or emerging youth leader who is ready to move from participant to employee. The Teaching Assistant supports the Level 2 Strings Director, models healthy string technique and ensemble habits, and gradually takes on instructional responsibilities as readiness develops.

Soundscapes prefers a candidate who can work the full Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday schedule, but the position may be divided. Students who can commit consistently to at least one regular program day each week are encouraged to apply.

Teaching Assistants are expected to meet professional standards while receiving coaching through the Soundscapes CATS model: Citizen, Artist, Teacher, and Scholar.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Arrive prepared and on time and model dependable, respectful, and professional workplace habits.
• Assist with beginning violin, viola, cello, and string bass instruction based on class needs and the Teaching Assistant's instrument background.
• Model instrument setup, posture, hand position, bow hold, pizzicato and arco technique, characteristic tone, instrument care, and rehearsal etiquette.
• Support music literacy, rhythm, pitch, aural skills, tuning, ensemble awareness, and independent practice habits.
• Lead warm-ups, sectionals, small-group practice, transitions, or short instructional activities when assigned and prepared.
• Provide individual or small-group support to students who need clarification, repetition, or encouragement.
• Assist with arrival, attendance, transitions, supervision, dismissal, the extended DSA program period, and the setup, tuning, distribution, collection, and organization of instruments and materials.
• Share relevant observations about student engagement and progress with the Level 2 Strings Director and site leadership.
• Participate in professional development, coaching, staff meetings, reflection, performances, field trips, and special activities.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Must be at least 16 years old by September 21, 2026.
• Must play violin, viola, cello, or string bass and demonstrate sufficient technique and musicianship to model foundational concepts for beginning students.
• Active participation in a Soundscapes program is strongly preferred and will receive priority consideration.
• Demonstrated musical study and ensemble participation through Soundscapes, a school or community ensemble, church, youth orchestra, private study, or equivalent experience.
• Interest in music education, youth development, community service, and music as a vehicle for social change.
• Dependability, punctuality, patience, clear communication, and willingness to receive coaching and apply feedback.
• Reliable transportation or a dependable plan to arrive at Carver Elementary on time.
• Employment is contingent upon completion of applicable employment documentation, youth-employment requirements, and screening processes.
• Finalists will perform on a principal string instrument and lead a short instructional activity during the interview process.

HOW TO APPLY

Email a brief letter of interest, a resume if available, and contact information for two references to [email protected]. Identify the Soundscapes program in which you participate, your string instrument, and the regular program day or days you can commit to. No phone calls, please.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Soundscapes is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages candidates of all backgrounds and experiences to apply.