He spent the early years of his career as an instructor, professor, and director of the choir at Bethany Lutheran College in Mankato, Minnesota (1936–1940); the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis-St. Paul (1940–1941); and Concordia Collegiate Institute in Bronxville, New York. In 1948, Hoffmann helped found the LCMS Department of Public Relations in New York City and served as its director until 1963.
Hoffmann's early career involved roles as an instructor, professor, and choir director at various institutions: Bethany Lutheran College, University of Minnesota, and Concordia Collegiate Institute. He later played a key role in establishing the LCMS Department of Public Relations in New York City.