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Acting Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

247Hire

Instructional Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65 - $90/hr

Develop eLearning, instructor-led, and blended learning training materials, including facilitator ... Work independently and on teams to design training materials, acting in the role of lead designer

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All JobsActing Instructor JobsActing Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL

Acting Instructor information

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How much do acting instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for acting instructor in Chicago, IL is $12.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.88 and $12.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an acting instructor?

Acting Instructors are professionals who teach the art of acting to students of various skill levels, ranging from beginners to advanced performers. They design lesson plans, conduct acting exercises, and provide feedback to help students improve their performance skills, stage presence, and understanding of dramatic techniques. Acting Instructors may work in schools, universities, community programs, or private studios, and often have a background in theater, film, or television. Their goal is to help students develop confidence, creativity, and the technical abilities needed for acting careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an acting instructor?

To thrive as an Acting Instructor, you need a strong background in acting techniques, theater arts education, and often a degree in drama or related field. Familiarity with stage equipment, video recording tools, and curriculum planning software is typically required, along with certifications in theater education or performance when applicable. Excellent communication, patience, creativity, and the ability to inspire and mentor students are standout soft skills. These skills ensure effective teaching, foster student growth, and contribute to a dynamic and supportive learning environment.

How does an acting instructor typically collaborate with other faculty and production staff?

Acting Instructors often work closely with other faculty members, such as voice, movement, and stagecraft instructors, to ensure a comprehensive learning experience for students. Collaboration with production staff is also common, especially during rehearsals and performances, to align acting techniques with technical elements like lighting, costumes, and set design. Regular meetings and joint workshops help synchronize curriculum goals and provide students with cohesive guidance throughout their training.

What is the difference between Acting Instructor vs Acting Coach?

AspectActing InstructorActing Coach
CredentialsTypically requires acting experience, teaching credentials, or theater/film educationOften has acting experience, coaching certifications, or industry-specific training
Work EnvironmentClassrooms, theaters, acting schools, universitiesPrivate sessions, workshops, industry settings
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, acting schools, universitiesIndividual clients, actors, industry professionals

Acting Instructors primarily teach acting techniques in educational settings, focusing on foundational skills. Acting Coaches work closely with individual actors to refine performances and prepare for auditions or roles. While both roles require acting experience, instructors focus on teaching groups, whereas coaches provide personalized guidance.

How do you become an acting instructor?

To become an acting instructor, individuals typically need extensive acting experience, often including professional training or a degree in theater or performing arts. Gaining teaching skills, developing a strong understanding of acting techniques, and obtaining relevant certifications or credentials can also be beneficial. Many instructors start as actors or assistants before progressing to teaching roles in educational or studio settings.

What degree do you need to be an acting instructor?

To become an acting instructor, a bachelor's degree in theater, drama, or a related field is typically required. Many instructors also have advanced training or a master's degree in acting or performing arts, along with professional acting experience and teaching skills.

What do you need to teach acting as an acting instructor?

To teach acting as an acting instructor, one typically needs relevant training or a degree in theater, acting, or a related field, along with experience in performance. Strong communication skills, knowledge of acting techniques, and the ability to teach and evaluate students are essential. Some positions may also require certification or credentials in teaching or drama education.

What are popular job titles related to Acting Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Acting Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Acting Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Acting Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Acting Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Acting Instructor job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $26,804 per year, or $12.9 per hour.

Drama Instructor (part-time, $16.50-$18.00/hour)

Schaumburg Park District

Schaumburg, IL • On-site

$16.50 - $18/hr

Part-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

ABOUT US: Schaumburg Park District is an award-winning parks and recreation agency that provides its 80,000 residents with a wide variety of recreational programs, classes, and events as well as facilities, parks, and open spaces! Our Cultural Arts Department is home to our outstanding theatre program, which hosts various productions throughout the year.
JOB SUMMARY: Drama Instructors will be responsible for teaching one or more of our after-school classes, which include a variety of topics such as Acting, Intro to Theater, Drama Games, Audition Workshops, and more. Instructors are responsible for creating lesson plans that meet the expectations of the class description. They will take attendance, teach material, and maintain the safety and supervision of participants. It is our hope that our drama instructors inspire a love of the arts in our young patrons, many of whom continue in our program for several years!
LOCATION: Community Recreation Center, 505 N Springinsguth Rd., Schaumburg, IL 60194
QUALIFICATIONS: The preferred applicant will have experience working with children in a supervisory role as well as extensive knowledge of the performing arts. Ability to manage a group while teaching material in a short timeframe is required. We are looking for a dependable person who can maintain a professional demeanor with strong creative and artistic skills and a desire to teach the next generation of theatre lovers!
SCHEDULING & PAY: This is a part-time position. Our classes are held in the afternoon and early evenings on Mondays and/or Thursdays. Specific hours will be discussed during the interview. The pay range is $16.50-$18.00 per hour.
PERKS & PRIVILEGES: This is a PART-TIME LEVEL 2 position and is eligible for the following internal privileges:
  • Free fitness center membership!
  • Free admission to indoor and outdoor pools!
  • One free program registration!
  • 10% discount on other program registrations
  • Free boat rental at Volkening Lake!
  • Free open gym admission! And more!

APPLY NOW!
Visit us at: https://schaumburgparkdistrict.bamboohr.com/jobs
** Position will be open until filled. ** Schaumburg Park District is an Equal Opportunity Employer. **
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