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Ballet Dance Instructor Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Dance Instructor

Sumner, WA · On-site

$17.13 - $22.19/hr

Ballet, Hip Hop, Tap, and Jazz Wages: $17.13 - $22.19/hour (Compensation is determined based on ... Dance Instructor Position Summary Provides leadership, instruction and motivation for dance program ...

Dance Instructor

Gig Harbor, WA · On-site

$17.13 - $22.19/hr

Ballet, Hip Hop, Tap, and Jazz Wages: $17.13 - $22.19/hour (Compensation is determined based on ... Dance Instructor Position Summary Provides leadership, instruction and motivation for dance program ...

Ballet Dance Instructor information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$6

$26

$52

How much do ballet dance instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for ballet dance instructor in Seattle, WA is $26.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.39 and $44.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Ballet Dance Instructor do?

A Ballet Dance Instructor teaches students the techniques, movements, and discipline of ballet. They create lesson plans, demonstrate steps, correct students’ form, and provide feedback to help dancers improve. Instructors may work with beginners or advanced students, preparing them for performances, exams, or competitions. They also foster a supportive environment that encourages artistic expression and physical fitness.

What is the difference between Ballet Dance Instructor vs Modern Dance Instructor?

AspectBallet Dance InstructorModern Dance Instructor
CredentialsTypically requires ballet certifications or dance degreesOften requires modern or contemporary dance training, certifications vary
Work EnvironmentDance studios, theaters, schoolsDance studios, performance venues, educational settings
Industry UsageCommonly employed in ballet schools and companiesFound in modern dance companies and educational programs
Search & Comparison IntentPeople comparing ballet teaching rolesIndividuals interested in modern dance instruction

The main difference between a Ballet Dance Instructor and a Modern Dance Instructor lies in their specialized training, teaching style, and typical work environments. Ballet instructors focus on classical ballet techniques, often requiring specific certifications, and work primarily in ballet schools or theaters. Modern dance instructors teach contemporary dance styles, with certifications varying, and are commonly found in modern dance companies or educational settings. Both roles involve teaching dance but cater to different styles and audiences.

What are some common challenges faced by Ballet Dance Instructors in group class settings?

Ballet Dance Instructors often encounter the challenge of accommodating students with varying skill levels within a single group class. Balancing personalized attention while ensuring the class progresses cohesively can require careful planning and adaptability. Instructors also manage classroom discipline and motivation, especially with younger students, to maintain a positive and productive learning environment. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are essential to address these challenges and foster growth in all students.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Ballet Dance Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Ballet Dance Instructor, you need extensive knowledge of ballet techniques, choreography, and teaching methods, often supported by formal dance training or certification. Familiarity with music editing software, classroom management systems, and injury prevention techniques is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and motivational skills help instructors connect with students and foster a positive learning environment. These abilities are crucial for effectively teaching ballet, ensuring student progress, and maintaining a safe, engaging class atmosphere.
What are popular job titles related to Ballet Dance Instructor jobs in Seattle, WA? For Ballet Dance Instructor jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Ballet Dance Instructor jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Ballet Dance Instructor jobs in Seattle, WA are:
Infographic showing various Ballet Dance Instructor job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,582 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

$17.13 - $22.19/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties is seeking a Dance Instructor to join our team.
The YMCA focuses on empowering people in all forms, by improving health and well-being and inspiring action in and across our neighborhoods.
This position supports the work of the Y, a leading non-profit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.
As a Dance Instructor, you will provide leadership, instruction, and motivation for dance program participants while delivering a quality experience to students and parents.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead dance technique classes and demonstrate positive dance principles.
  • Create class lesson plans with a natural progression that relates to the abilities and ages of the classes being taught, reflecting YMCA dance curricula and core values.
  • Choreograph and contribute to annual dance recitals, dance performances, and other YMCA events as assigned.
  • Effectively communicate program information and student progress to the youth and/or arts director and members at each session.
  • Attend center and association dance staff training and meetings as required.
  • Assist the youth and/or arts director in reaching campaign goals by telling the Y story, making personal asks, and supporting center events.
  • Cleaning and sanitation protocols will be required of all staff.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Are you a good fit?
  • Minimum of 16 years of age or older.
  • 5+ years of formal dance training or comparable experience.
  • 1-2 years of experience as a dance teacher and/or teaching assistant preferred.
  • Positive attitude and previous experience with varying ages and diverse populations.
  • Possess the knowledge and skills to teach preschool and beginning-level dance classes. Multiple disciplines preferred.
  • Ability to create engaging lesson plans that reflect appropriate level, ability, classroom management, and the YMCA dance curricula.
  • Performance and dance production experience preferred.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications.
  • Complete online Child Abuse Prevention training on the first day of employment. Complete other online and in-person training as required.
  • Must be able to pass Background and Reference checks (in accordance with the WA State Fair Chance Act).

Classes: Beginner to advanced; Ballet, Hip Hop, Tap, and Jazz
Wages: $17.13 - $22.19/hour (Compensation is determined based on relevant experience, skills, and qualifications, with most new hires starting between the minimum and midpoint of the posted wage range)
Hours: Part-Time, Up to 25 hours per week
Location: Gordon Family YMCA, Sumner, WA
Benefits:
All YMCA Employees receive the below benefits:
  • A Personal YMCA membership and YMCA360 virtual streaming membership
  • Flexible scheduling around school and extracurricular activities Paid Sick Leave accrued at 1.23 hours for every 40 hours worked per year
  • Employee Assistance Plan (EAP), Digital mental health counseling platform, Wellness program, and LifeMart employee discount center
  • Professional training, education, and certification opportunities
  • 20% discount on YMCA programs, childcare services and merchandise

Part-Time employees who work more than 20 hrs./week are eligible for the below voluntary benefit options:
  • HealthiestYou: by Teladoc (24/7 virtual general medical care access for non-emergency conditions)
  • Willamette Dental Plan
  • VSP Vision Plan

Ignite your Passion, Live the Y Cause, and Join our Team! To apply visit our website at www.ymcapkc.org.
The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties is committed to diversity and inclusion throughout our organization and is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Women/Minority/Veteran/Disabled.
Dance Instructor Job Description
Position Summary
Provides leadership, instruction and motivation for dance program participants. Provides a quality experience to students and parents focused on YMCA core values: honesty, respect, responsibility, and caring.
Key Responsibilities
• Follow/Implement our Association Quality Standards and 9 Dimensions of Well Being into Youth Programming and Staff Development.
• Participate in annual dance recitals, dance performances, Y Arts Week events and other YMCA events as assigned.
• Create class lesson plans with a natural progression that relate to the abilities and ages of the classes being taught as well as reflect YMCA dance curricula and YMCA core values.
• Choreograph dances for end of year performances.
• Effectively communicate program information and student progress as needed.
• Monitor student attendance and development in all dance classes. Report back to Arts Director frequently around class updates, staff development and member experience.
• Attend branch and association dance staff trainings and meetings as required.
• Lead dance technique classes to YMCA members.
• Teach and demonstrate positive dance principles.
• Assist with annual dance recital production, including dress rehearsals and performances.
• Effectively engage and lead volunteers, including Dance Teachers in Training, to provide quality programming for participants and positive volunteer experiences.
• Meet performance measurement through annual giving, major gifts, and/or endowment by telling the Y story and raising charitable dollars to fulfill our mission.
• Embraces and actively promotes an inclusive and equitable work environment.
• Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications, Skills and Abilities
• Minimum of 16 years of age or older.
• 5-10 years of formal dance training or comparable experience.
• 3-5 years of experience as a dance teacher and/or teaching assistant.
• Preferred: Experience teaching classes, beginning through advanced levels.
• Positive attitude and previous experience with varying ages and diverse populations
• Possess the knowledge and skills to teach classes, pre-school through adult, beginning through advanced levels. Multiple disciplines preferred.
• Ability to create comprehensive lesson plans that reflect students' level and ability.
• Demonstrated ability to choreograph beginning and advanced level pieces for dance recitals.
• First-hand knowledge of performance and dance production.
• Preferred: Knowledge of safety procedures and dance and office equipment set-up.
• CPR, First Aid, AED certifications.
• Complete online Child Abuse Prevention training on first day. Complete other online and in-person training as required.
Working Conditions/Physical Demands
• Regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms.
• Occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Must frequently lift or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift or move a higher amount.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
• Occasionally may need to plan and participate in programming outdoors.
• Ability to lead dance/various arts classes.
Employee Acknowledgement
This job description indicates the general nature and levels of work, knowledge, skills, abilities and other essential functions expected of this position. This document is not an exhaustive list and other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or assigned at any time with or without advanced notice.
This job description does not constitute a contract of employment and the YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties may exercise employment-at-will rights at any time.
By signing below, you are acknowledging that you have read the document in its entirety and that you understand the requirements, essential functions, and job duties of this position. Further, you acknowledge that you are able to perform the duties of the position with or without reasonable accommodation(s), and that should you need assistance, that you are responsible for notifying your Director, Executive Director, and/or Human Resources.