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Background Dancer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

West Valley Dance Company

Dance Teacher

San Jose, CA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Have a strong dance background and a genuine passion for both dance and teaching * Have experience working with children and students ages 18 months-18 years (preferred) * Bring energy, creativity ...

Dance With Me Dance Studios

Dance Instructor

Buckhead, GA · On-site

$40K - $100K/yr

Dance background in any styles - ballroom, Latin, or partner dance styles (salsa, bachata, swing) preferred * You don't need to know every style. If you can move and you love to teach, we'll train ...

West Valley Dance Company

Dance Teacher

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Have a strong dance background and a genuine passion for both dance and teaching * Have experience working with children and students ages 18 months-18 years (preferred) * Bring energy, creativity ...

West Valley Dance Company

Dance Teacher

San Jose, CA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Have a strong dance background and a genuine passion for both dance and teaching * Have experience working with children and students ages 18 months-18 years (preferred) * Bring energy, creativity ...

West Valley Dance Company

Dance Teacher

San Jose, CA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Have a strong dance background and a genuine passion for both dance and teaching * Have experience working with children and students ages 18 months-18 years (preferred) * Bring energy, creativity ...

Dance With Me Dance Studios

Dance Instructor

Buckhead, GA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Dance background in any styles - ballroom, Latin, or partner dance styles (salsa, bachata, swing) preferred * You don't need to know every style. If you can move and you love to teach, we'll train ...

Dance With Me Dance Studios

Dance Instructor

Buckhead, GA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Dance background in any styles - ballroom, Latin, or partner dance styles (salsa, bachata, swing) preferred * You don't need to know every style. If you can move and you love to teach, we'll train ...

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Background Dancer information

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$11

$17

$24

How much do background dancer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for background dancer in the United States is $17.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

How do you become a background dancer?

To become a background dancer, you should develop strong dance skills through training or practice, build a portfolio with headshots and dance reels, and gain experience by auditioning for dance agencies, production companies, or open casting calls. Networking within the entertainment industry and maintaining physical fitness are also important for securing roles. Many background dancers start by working with local productions or dance groups to build their experience and connections.

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 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 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.
More about Background Dancer jobs
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Background Dancer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Background Dancer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Full Time, 92% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,730 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

ADDED DUTY CONTRACT: Iñupiaq Dancing

North Slope Borough School District

Barrow, AK • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

REPORTS TO: Building Principal. Serves as liaison between coaches and the administration.

General Responsibilities/Duties

  • Communicate with participants, parents, and administrators.
  • Set an example through living by a high code of conduct.
  • Follow safety procedures.
  • Understand and adhere the NSBSD and any specific activity policies and guidelines.
  • Responsible for the annual review of the Coaches’ and the Parent and Student Handbooks.
  • Ensure student welfare is paramount in decision-making.
  • Complete the Mandatory Trainings (Training Verification Check List Coaching and Activity Adviser Staff) on/or before the first contract day:

Specific Responsibilities/Duties

  • Coordinate with Principal performance time(s)/date(s).
  • Spring & Fall (2 performances)
  • Keep a roster of dance performers.
  • Administer Pre-Attendance Survey to students.
  • Turn in Activity Report, attach photos (if any).

COMPENSATION

Per negotiated agreement and meeting all “Responsibilities” – payment may be prorated based on meeting the responsibilities.

Requirements

  1. High school graduate or equivalent required
  2. Ability to pass a background Check
  3. AK Driver's license preferred