_{02nd July, 2025}

Cathedral Organist
Location: Cathedral of St Stephen, Brisbane CBD
Employment Type: Permanent Part-Time (19 hours per week; flexible with time-in-lieu or timesheets for overflow)
Work Schedule: Thursday, Friday, Sunday + Feast Day (determined by Ordo)
 
About Us
St Stephen’s Cathedral is the heart of the Archdiocese of Brisbane, serving as a central place of worship, community, and cultural heritage in the city. As the head church of the Archdiocese, it plays a vital role in welcoming and supporting people from all backgrounds. The Archdiocese of Brisbane cares for over 90 parishes and numerous ministries and community services across Southeast Queensland, dedicated to fostering compassion, connection, and service to others.

About the Role
The Cathedral of St Stephen, the liturgical heart of the Archdiocese of Brisbane, is seeking a talented and committed Cathedral Organist to enrich its music ministry.
This is a rare and prestigious opportunity to contribute to the sacred music tradition at the highest standard, working within a dynamic music department led by the Director of Music.
This role requires a highly skilled, self-motivated musician with the ability to accompany choirs, perform solo repertoire, and improvise in liturgical settings. The position supports and leads musical aspects of the Cathedral’s key services, feast days, and archdiocesan events.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide high-level organ accompaniment for choirs and congregational singing across all liturgical services.
• Perform solo organ works during Masses, concerts, and other special occasions.
• Support and accompany rehearsals for the Cathedral Choir and adult singers.
• Collaborate with the Director of Music on musical planning, repertoire, scheduling, and administration.
• Provide organ and liturgical music education and mentorship to emerging musicians.
• Participate in all major Archdiocesan liturgies held at the Cathedral (e.g. Chrism Mass, Holy Week, Ordinations, Priestly Funerals).
• Prepare for weddings, funerals, and special events outside of core hours (separately invoiced).
• Maintain 2 hours weekly for personal practice, preparation, and instrument familiarity in the Cathedral.

Working Hours

• Sundays:
• 8:00am Mass
• 10:00am Solemn Mass (with rehearsal)
• 12:00pm Mass (with rehearsal)
• Feast Days:
• 8:00am, 10:00am & 12:30pm Masses
• Varies according to ordines – average 45 yearly.
• Occasional Rehearsals:
• Thursdays and Fridays: 4:00pm Boys, 6:00pm Adults (as needed)
• Preparation:
• 2 hours per week allocated for organ practice and planning.

 
In addition to regular duties, the Cathedral Organist is expected to participate in all major Archdiocesan liturgies held at the Cathedral throughout the year. Weddings, funerals, and other special services may also be required outside of standard hours and will be separately invoiced. Given the seasonal nature of Cathedral life, variations in workload are anticipated, and appropriate timesheet adjustments or time-in-lieu arrangements will apply.
 

What We’re Looking For

• Performs at a high professional standard in solo organ repertoire, choral accompaniment, and improvisation.
• Self-motivated with the ability to take initiative and work independently.
• Aligns with the musical and spiritual mission of the Cathedral.
• A team player who collaborates well with professional and volunteer musicians
• Trustworthy, reliable, and a good cultural fit within a sacred, community-driven environment
• Able to critically evaluate and manage music programs and contribute to strategic planning.
• An excellent communicator with interpersonal and administrative skills

Benefits

• Unique opportunity to serve in Brisbane’s premier liturgical setting.
• Work within a supportive and respected music team.
• Access to a world-class pipe organ and professional rehearsal environment
• Opportunities for professional development and artistic growth
• Flexible working arrangements to accommodate special events and seasonal needs.
• Competitive remuneration aligned to Archdiocesan standards and award conditions.

This role is perfect for a talented organist who values musical excellence, meaningful liturgical work, and the opportunity to be part of a unique and prestigious sacred music program.

At the Cathedral of St Stephen, we foster a culture that balances professional achievement with personal wellbeing—offering a flexible schedule, a supportive team, and the chance to perform in one of Brisbane’s most iconic sacred spaces. If you're ready to share your gift in a role that’s both spiritually and musically fulfilling, we’d love to hear from you.

To apply for this role please submit a cover letter and resume via the Apply For This Job button.

For further information please contact HR Recruitment Coordinator Brent Hunter hunterb@bne.catholic.net.au.

The Archdiocese of Brisbane is committed to safeguarding all children and vulnerable adults engaged in Archdiocesan activities, ministries and services, and maintains a zero-tolerance approach to any form of abuse. To support this commitment, we conduct referee checks and criminal history screenings during recruitment and require employees to hold a current Queensland Working with Children Blue Card and/or undergo regular criminal history checks.

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