Assistant Organist

Posted June 25, 2025

The Assistant Organist is the second organist for Washington National Cathedral. Under the guidance of the Associate Organist, the Assistant Organist is responsible for playing designated services and rehearsals. In addition to the annual schedule of services, the Assistant Organist may be required to play in concerts, special services, and other events as part of their employment. The Assistant Organist also assists in the administration of the music office.

The Assistant Organist should be prepared to act as an ambassador of the Cathedral, both within the diocese and across the country. As the second organist and accompanist, they will have the opportunity to be featured in all of the Cathedral’s most public events and worship services.

musical responsibilities
  • Play for specified services, rehearsals, concerts, or other special events at Washington National Cathedral.
  • Conduct specified services, rehearsals, or other special events at Washington National Cathedral.
  • Perform recitals as assigned at Washington National Cathedral as part of the organ recital series, in addition to the Christmas and Easter Day organ recitals.
  • In collaboration with the Chorister Program Director, lead chorister rehearsals as assigned.
administrative responsibilities
  • Attend meetings as specified by the Associate Organist.
  • Assist the Worship Department and Associate Organist with the planning of special services (i.e. weddings, funerals)
  • Assist Associate Organist in worship planning, including the proofreading of leaflets and creation of hymn graphics.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
minimum qualifications
  • Master’s degree in music or equivalent experience
  • At least five years of church music work experience.
  • Documented experience as a choral accompanist.
  • Strong improvisational abilities.
preferred qualifications
  • Working experience in the Episcopal/Anglican tradition.
  • Documented experience as a choral conductor.
  • Experienced organ recitalist.
  • FAGO/FRCO diploma or advanced degree in organ performance
  • Experience working with choristers.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES
  • Excellent musical skills including organ playing
  • Experienced accompanist in a liturgical setting
  • Collegial working style
  • Strong administrative and organizational skills
WORKING CONDITIONS
  • This position requires work during regular business hours. At times, some work on weekends and outside of regular business hours may be required. Flexibility in scheduling is necessary.
  • This position is eligible for hybrid/remote scheduling as dictated by the department’s needs.
  • The position also requires grasping, repetitive hand movement, and fine coordination in preparing reports using a computer keyboard.
  • The position also requires near and far vision for reading and preparing written reports and other required documents.
  • The position requires prolonged sitting, standing, walking, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, and stooping in the performance of daily activities.
  • Acute hearing is also required when providing phone assistance.
  • The need to lift, drag, push, and pull files, reports and other materials weighing up to 25 pounds is also required.

Washington National Cathedral is an equal opportunity employer and strives to create a more diverse and inclusive atmosphere for all. Applicants will not be discriminated against because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.

We support an inclusive workplace where associates excel based on personal merit, qualifications, experience, ability, and job performance.

Washington National Cathedral seeks individuals who are committed to our mission. We appreciate interest from those who will contribute to an atmosphere in which diversity is valued and supported.

Salary range at $70,000 per year commensurate to experience.

Apply Now

To apply, send a cover letter and resume to [email protected].