Williams Baptist University invites applications for a full-time faculty position in the Department of Fine Arts, beginning Fall 2026. The successful candidate will demonstrate a commitment to excellence in teaching, student mentorship, and Christian higher education. This position includes instruction and support in key areas of the music program, with a focus on worship, piano, and potentially music theory/history music depending on the candidate’s background.
University Description
Founded in 1941, Williams Baptist University is an evangelical Christian liberal arts college and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). The college is located in Walnut Ridge, Arkansas, and has an average enrollment of 500 students. Owned and operated by the Arkansas Baptist State Convention, the University takes seriously its identity as a Christian institution in the Baptist tradition. Williams Baptist University exists to cultivate Christ-centered leaders who make a difference in their lifework. More information about the University’s history and mission can be reviewed on this website.
Essential Functions:
- Teach undergraduate courses in worship studies, including worship rehearsal techniques, worship songwriting and arranging, and related courses aligned with the music and worship curriculum.
- Teach Class Piano and provide private applied piano instruction.
- Provide musical leadership and mentorship to students preparing for worship ministry contexts.
- Serve as a collaborative pianist as needed for juries, recitals, and worship-related performances.
- Participate in departmental planning, assessment, student recruitment, and university service.
- Support chapel services and campus worship initiatives as appropriate.
Additional Responsibilities (as qualifications allow):
- Assist with choral ensembles, worship teams, and other music ministry activities.
- Participate in curriculum development for worship and church music studies.
Education and Experience:
- Master’s degree in music, worship studies, church music, or a related field required; terminal degree preferred.
- Demonstrated experience leading worship in local church or ministry settings.
- High level of proficiency in piano required; collaborative piano experience preferred. Candidates with a bachelor’s degree and significant professional experience in church music may be considered.
- College-level teaching experience or equivalent professional experience preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, and Competencies:
- Exceptional commitment to Christian higher education.
- Strong organizational skills, with attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to mentor, advise, and spiritually guide college students effectively.
- Proficiency in managing confidential information and student records appropriately.
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively with faculty, administration, students, and external partners.
- A commitment to professional growth and to the mission and values of WBU.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to stand, sit, type, and walk for extended periods of time
- Ability to sit for extended periods of time and to lift 35 lbs.
- Ability to use standard office equipment
- Ability to use institutional technology equipment and resources
Special Requirements:
- Committed to the vision and mission of Williams Baptist University
- Per WBU Employee Handbook policy (40.2): “It is required that all faculty and administrative staff be persons who have accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, and who are active members of a local Christian church which adheres to an evangelical faith consistent with the historic religious beliefs of Southern Baptists.”
AAP/EEO Statement: Per WBU Policy Statement
Other Duties:
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Application
Applicants should fill out our online application and then send a letter of interest, current resume, and contact information via email to hr@williamsbu.edu. A review of applicants will begin immediately and applications will be accepted until the position is filled.