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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 ...

Tutu School

Children's Dance Teacher

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$30/hr

We require our teachers to have a strong background in dance, great communication skills, and a commitment to our carefully crafted curriculum. Most of all, we want instructors who are invested in ...

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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.

Dance Instructor

Carmichael Recreation & Park District

Carmichael, CA • On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Other

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

This position will be open until filled.


Carmichael Recreation & Park District is seeking a motivated and engaging Dance Instructor to lead classes for our community. We are looking for individuals who are passionate about teaching and creating a positive, welcoming environment for participants of all ages and skill levels.

About the Position

The Dance (Multi-Style) Instructor will plan and lead classes in a variety of dance styles including but not limited to: salsa, ballroom, swing, hip-hop, dance fitness and other dance-based instruction. Instructors play a key role in delivering high-quality recreation programs that promote learning, wellness, and community connection.

This position is part-time and hourly, with scheduling and hours varying based on program needs.

Key Responsibilities

  • Plan and lead engaging, well-structured classes in Dance (Multi-Styled)
  • Adapt instruction to meet varying ages and skill levels
  • Create a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment
  • Manage class flow, participant behavior, and engagement
  • Set up and clean up equipment and program space
  • Maintain attendance and communicate with staff as needed
  • Provide excellent customer service to participants and families
  • Ensure compliance with District policies and safety procedures

Minimum Qualifications

  • Experience teaching, coaching, or leading Dance (Multi-Style) or related field
  • Ability to work with all ages (youth through older adults)
  • Strong communication and group management skills
  • Reliable, organized, and able to work independently

Preferred Qualifications

  • Certification in dance or fitness certification or equivalent experience
  • Previous experience in parks & recreation or community programming
  • Experience developing lesson plans or curriculum

Special Requirements

  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • CPR/First Aid certification or ability to obtain within 3 months upon hire
  • Additional certifications may be required depending on program

You may also be asked to provide:

  • Resume
  • Relevant certifications
  • Sample class outline or teaching style (if applicable)

Compensation

$25 - $35

Why Join Us?

Join Carmichael Recreation & Park District and share your passion with the community while making a meaningful impact. Our instructors play a key role in creating welcoming, engaging programs that bring people together. We offer flexible scheduling, supportive staff, and the opportunity to grow your classes and ideas within a community-focused environment.

Employment

Carmichael Recreation & Park District is an equal opportunity employer with policies and employment procedures designed to ensure the highest quality staff is selected to work with our community’s precious resources, whether it be in our Parks Services Division promoting the safety of our facilities and the beauty of our parks, our Recreation Services Division working with youth programs, special events, sports, and adult leisure activities, or our Administration and Planning Services Division providing customer service and administrative support for district operations that serve our community.

All applicants are required to submit a District Application which will be reviewed for minimum qualifications. Applicants meeting the minimum qualifications will be further considered to continue in the recruitment process. Candidates may be subject to:

  • Interview
  • Reference and background checks, including fingerprint screening
  • Possession of a valid California Driver’s license and good driving record (Case by case basis)
  • Post offer pre-employment drug screen performed at the District’s expense.
  • Skills testing