Orchestra Teacher (2026-2027 School Year)

Are you ready to lead the next chapter of educational excellence? At Zeta, we pursue an unprecedented combination of high academic achievement and social-emotional development for our students. We insist that every student receives a world-class education while fostering a love for learning. We are passionate about changing the landscape of public education in New York City and beyond, and we are uncompromising in our mission.

We currently operate multiple elementary and middle schools across the Bronx, Upper Manhattan, and Queens, and continue to grow - opening 1–2 new schools each year, because children in every community deserve excellent, equitable education. As part of this organizational expansion, we are also preparing to welcome our first-ever Zeta High School class of 9th graders in the 2026-27 school year, a milestone that marks the next chapter in our mission to provide a world-class, PreK-12 pathway. Join our growing team today and be a change agent for children.

To achieve our vision, we are searching for a full-time Orchestra Teacher with a Bachelor's degree, at least 1-2+ years of relevant musical teaching experience, a background in string instruments, and mastery of music and conducting.

Responsibilities:

• Lead daily, inquiry-driven, musically rigorous lessons for all string instruments—cultivating strong technique, musicality, and deep appreciation for orchestral performance.
• Execute a bold vision of excellence in music education, designing lessons that inspire passion, creativity, discipline, and joy in every student, regardless of prior musical experience.
• Build a vibrant, inclusive classroom culture where students develop a genuine love for music, embrace practice and perseverance, and feel connected to a strong community of families and peers.
• Champion Zeta's ambitious academic goals—leveraging music education to strengthen essential habits such as focus, precision, collaboration, and resilience.
• Use data, student work, and research-based instructional tools to monitor musical growth, refine technique, and support students in advancing from foundational skills to polished performance.
• Develop meaningful, trusting relationships with students and families to support each child's academic, personal, and artistic growth.
• Contribute to whole-school initiatives and provide instructional support as needed to ensure orchestra is woven meaningfully into the broader school community.
• Collaborate closely with colleagues and engage in weekly professional learning, embracing feedback and coaching to grow as an educator and deepen your craft.
• Lead a high-quality in-school orchestra elective and after-school orchestra and ensemble program, expanding students' passion, technical skill, and performance opportunities.
• Conduct orchestras and ensembles to produce excellent musical performances that showcase student achievement for the school community and beyond.
• Partner with String Consultants to prepare students for auditions, festivals, competitions, and performances outside of the Zeta community.
• Maintain instruments and inventory, performing basic repairs and ensuring all students have equitable access to high-quality equipment.

Zeta teammates are lifelong learners who live with child-like joy and a deep sense of purpose. We disrupt the status quo and tackle problems together. Our team stands united by our commitment to a limitless future for every child.

Our Zeta team is comprised of top talent with incredible schooling and private-sector experience. You will make a tremendous team member at Zeta if you:

• Are passionate about our mission of providing world-class education to all students
• Bring a mindset of growth, flexibility, and openness to feedback
• Are hungry and determined to not only meet your goals but surpass them
• Are humble, willing to put the team's needs ahead of your own, and committed to contributing to a collaborative work environment
• Are well-organized and detail-oriented

We are hiring for the 2026-2027 school year with a start date of July 27, 2026. The salary range for this position is between $62,000 and $100,000. New hires can expect to be brought into the organization at a salary closer to the beginning of the range, depending on relevant experience and internal equity. Compensation is based on our salary scales.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive and affordable medical, dental, and vision plans
• Flexible spending accounts for eligible medical purchases and commuter expenses
• 403(b) retirement plan; Zeta offers matching contributions toward your savings
• Competitive compensation

Perks:

• Monthly stipend for wellness and lifestyle expenses (gym memberships, salon appointments, concerts – it's up to you!)
• 4 live therapy sessions per month through Talkspace and free Headspace subscription
• MacBook Air and specified monthly reimbursement for use of a mobile phone
• Fully stocked teacher workrooms with favorite snacks and Nespresso machine
• Zeta swag, team outings, and NYC's finest sweet treats
• Books for professional development

Personal and Professional Growth:

• Clear pathway to professional growth
• Consistent feedback and support from managers and teammates
• Community Circle practice to build and strengthen our sense of team
• Interactive mindfulness & DEIJ programming

Equity is at the heart of our mission. We have a deep commitment to pursuing diversity and striving for equity. Zeta is an equal-opportunity employer. Candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Work authorization is required (the candidate must have permanent authorization to work in the U.S.).