king cobras program lead

We are seeking a dynamic part-time instructor to teach our King Cobras Drumline program for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This role brings drum and sound equipment to various schools and venues, and leads the students in a joyous, interactive musical experience.

This employee will work closely with the King Cobras Director to coordinate event volunteers, and in-person events around the Greater Chicago area. The ideal candidate will have a passion for mentoring individuals with IDD and an ability to quickly adapt to the needs of the students.

QUALIFICATIONS - REQUIRED

  • Passionate music instructor with energetic teaching style

  • Comfortable working with participants with IDD and able to engage with them, showing patience, acceptance, and empathy

  • Capable of drumming simple patterns (see this resource page for song examples and teaching demos)

  • Organizational ability to practively contact schools or establishments, schedule visits and sessions, and deliver the program on schedule

  • Ability to lift 30 lbs, and to load and unload drums and sound equipment from a trailer

  • Possess valid driver's license and insurance

  • Ability to safely attach a trailer to a vehicle

  • Ability to maneuver a vehicle pulling an approximately 10’ trailer, including reversing

  • Commitment to professionalism and upholding CAPE’s values

  • Must pass a CAPE background check

  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to engage and inspire participants, families, and partners

  • Ability to articulate and promote the mission and values of CAPE effectively

  • Proven ability to develop and nurture positive relationships within a diverse community

  • Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple responsibilities simultaneously

  • Passion for inclusive performing arts education

QUALIFICATIONS - PREFERRED

  • Ability to research new locations for the program

  • Capable of using google docs and sheets for recordkeeping

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Collaborate with the King Cobras Director to contact schools and other establishments, schedule sessions, and deliver the program

  • Collaborate with volunteers to arrange their help with setup and takedown of equipment

  • Positively represent the CAPE organization

  • Manage all aspects of the King Cobras Drumline program sessions, ensuring a high-quality and inclusive experience for all participants

  • Develop and maintain strong, positive relationships with participants, parents, instructors, community partners, and stakeholders

  • Foster an inclusive and supportive environment that encourages growth, creativity, and teamwork among participants of all abilities, including diverse learners and special-needs students

  • Effectively communicate and embody CAPE’s mission, ensuring alignment with organizational values and goals

  • Serve as the primary point of contact for program inquiries, ensuring professional and timely communication

  • Work closely with CAPE leadership to support fundraising, sponsorships, and program sustainability efforts

  • Maintain accurate records, including attendance, program evaluations, and reports for CAPE leadership

  • Stay informed on industry best practices in adaptive performing arts and inclusive education

KING COBRAS SESSION DETAILS

Most King Cobras sessions require approximately 5 hours of time during school hours. Activities during session days include:

  • Load up trailer and hook it up to passenger vehicle at the CAPE garage in Franklin Park

  • Drive vehicle to the session site

  • Meet and coordinate volunteer assistant(s) on-site

  • Unload and set up equipment

  • MC the session, guiding participants through drumming to the beat of back tracks played over loudspeakers

  • Load equipment back up and return trailer and vehicle to CAPE garage

COMPENSATION AND SCHEDULE

This is a paid, part time position, with compensation of $25 per hour (including transit time). The King Cobras hold roughly one session a week throughout the year. Session scheduling can be flexible based on the availability of the Program Lead. Often programs take place at schools during school hours, with occasional events at different locations or on weekends. This staff member will report directly to the King Cobras Director, and will work closely with volunteer staff.

Applicants will be subject to an interview process and background check as part of the evaluation process.

The Cavaliers Arts, Performance & Education (CAPE) is an equal opportunity employer and does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, creed, color, ethnicity, religion, alienage or national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, disabilities, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws. These activities include, but are not limited to, hiring and firing of staff, selection of volunteers and vendors, and provision of services. CAPE is committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff, volunteers, contractors, vendors, and participating members.