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Background Dancer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Carmichael Park

Dance Instructor

Carmichael, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

About the Position The Dance (Multi-Style) Instructor will plan and lead classes in a variety of ... Interview * Reference and background checks, including fingerprint screening * Possession of a ...

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All JobsBackground Dancer JobsBackground Dancer Jobs in California

Background Dancer information

See California salary details

$11

$16

$23

How much do background dancer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for background dancer in California is $16.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $19.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a background dancer?

Background dancers are professional performers who support lead artists or main performers during live shows, music videos, films, or stage productions. Their primary role is to enhance the visual and artistic appeal of a performance through choreographed dance routines. Background dancers work closely with choreographers and often need to learn and adapt to various dance styles. They play an essential role in creating dynamic and engaging performances, even though they are not the central focus on stage.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a background dancer?

To thrive as a Background Dancer, you need strong technical dance abilities across multiple styles, physical stamina, and often formal dance training or certifications. Familiarity with stage production systems, choreography software, and audition processes is typically required. Exceptional teamwork, adaptability, and a positive attitude are crucial soft skills for collaborating with choreographers and fellow performers. These skills ensure seamless performances, professional reliability, and the ability to quickly adapt to creative direction in dynamic environments.

What are the typical work environments and team dynamics for a background dancer?

Background dancers often work in fast-paced, collaborative environments such as music video sets, live stage performances, or television productions. They regularly rehearse with choreographers and fellow dancers to ensure synchronized movements and high-quality performances. Teamwork and adaptability are essential, as background dancers must quickly learn new routines and adjust to last-minute changes. Building strong relationships with the creative team and lead performers is also important, as it helps foster a supportive and productive work atmosphere.

What is the difference between Background Dancer vs Choreographer?

AspectBackground DancerChoreographer
Required CredentialsDance training, audition experienceDance training, choreography experience, often a portfolio
Work EnvironmentFilm, TV, stage performancesStudio, rehearsal spaces, production sets
Employer & Industry UsageProduction companies, entertainment industryDance companies, production teams, entertainment industry
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Background dancers perform in supporting roles, focusing on executing choreography as directed. Choreographers create and design dance routines, often leading and instructing dancers. While background dancers need dance skills and audition experience, choreographers require creative vision and choreography expertise. Both roles are integral to dance and entertainment productions but differ in responsibilities and career focus.

What qualifications do you need to be a background dancer?

Background dancers typically need strong dance skills, which can be demonstrated through training, performances, or auditions. Physical fitness, the ability to follow choreography, and sometimes experience with specific dance styles or tools like dance shoes are also important. Many employers look for professionalism, reliability, and the ability to work well in a team environment.

What are popular job titles related to Background Dancer jobs in California?

For Background Dancer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Background Dancer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Background Dancer jobs in California are:

Background Dancer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Background Dancer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,262 per year, or $17 per hour.

Hip Hop Dance Instructor - Fairfield, CA

Ensemble Music Schools

Fairfield, CA • On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Part-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Are you a passionate dance instructor who loves working with children? Ensemble Schools is looking for experienced HIP HOP teachers to inspire and nurture the next generation of dancers at The Dance Factory. Our growing studio in Fairfield, California focuses on providing quality instruction in a safe environment. We're seeking instructors who can deliver engaging, in-person lessons and contribute to the vibrant dance community. Our positive classrooms are staffed by amazing teachers who go beyond teaching dance technique to developing important life skills in students because The Dance Factory is about More Than Just Great Dancing!®
Position Highlights
  • Supportive Work Environment: Join a community that values collaboration and growth.
  • Benefits and Opportunities: Access a range of benefits and professional development opportunities.
    • Benefits include a 401(K) program with employer matching and health benefit options for all part-time and full-time employees.

Responsibilities:
  • Instructing students in hip hop techniques across various skill levels
  • Developing and implementing lesson plans for improving skills
  • Choreographing dances for recitals.
  • Showcasing a strong background in dance through educational, teaching, and/or performing experience.
  • Demonstrate a genuine love for teaching and experience working with young dancers.
  • Provide reliable transportation and pass a routine background check.
  • Exhibit traits of dependability, professionalism, enthusiasm, punctuality, and friendliness.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Enthusiastic and vibrant personality for engaging young dancers.
  • Post-secondary dance training experience such as a certificate or degree in dance performance, education, or related fields (not mandatory but a plus).

About The Dance Factory
Developing confidence and creativity through dance: The Dance Factory provides the community with a fun and comfortable environment to explore the performing art of Dance. Our classes are offered in group settings, private, and semi-private lessons. We welcome children and young adults striving to enrich their educational opportunities through dance, as well as adults and professional dancers interested in a secure place to practice their art. Learn more about The Dance Factory here: https://www.ensembleschools.co...
About Ensemble Schools
Ensemble Schools is a collaborative network of community-driven Music & Dance schools. While each school maintains its unique identity, they share resources to ensure collective success.
Who We Are
Our mission is to empower artists by safeguarding the businesses that love them ♡. Our values include:
  • Stewardship: We are caretakers of our local businesses and communities, helping them thrive by making it easy for our teachers to cultivate an enriching learning experience for students.
  • Growth: Our teachers are integral to our success, and we are committed to their professional growth. As an ever-growing partnership of music and dance schools, we seek to increase the high-quality resources provided to our schools and teachers.
  • Stagehands: Our Shared Services team runs in the background to support our schools. By doing this, we champion our teachers and students to be the real stars of the show!

How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to send their resume and a brief cover letter to Allison Liedman through this portal. We embrace diversity within our artistic community and encourage all qualified individuals to apply
Job type: Part-time
Pay range: $30-$35 per hour depending on teacher qualifications and experience
Ensemble Performing Arts is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status or disability status, or genetic information. Pursuant to the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and any other state or local hiring regulations, we will consider for employment any qualified applicant, including those with arrest and conviction records, in a manner consistent with applicable law. It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

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