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Ballet Dancer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Experience with Ballet/Dance company operations a plus * Confident in a wide variety of software including Office365 products, file sharing systems, and database programs. Able to learn new programs ...

Company Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Experience with Ballet/Dance company operations a plus * Confident in a wide variety of software including Office365 products, file sharing systems, and database programs. Able to learn new programs ...

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Ballet Dancer information

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$5

$26

$52

How much do ballet dancer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for ballet dancer in Washington is $26.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $44.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Ballet Dancer, you need exceptional physical fitness, refined technique, and extensive training, often gained through years of practice and attendance at a reputable dance academy or conservatory. Mastery of classical ballet styles, familiarity with choreographic notation, and sometimes proficiency in related dance software or video analysis tools are common technical requirements. Discipline, resilience, teamwork, and strong communication skills help dancers excel both on stage and during rehearsals. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering compelling performances, maintaining physical health, and succeeding in a competitive performing arts environment.

How much money do ballet dancers make?

Ballet dancers' salaries vary based on experience, location, and the company they work for. In the United States, professional ballet dancers typically earn between $20,000 and $100,000 annually, with top-tier dancers earning more. Many dancers supplement income through teaching, coaching, or performing in additional productions.

What is a ballet dancer?

Ballet dancers are highly trained artists who perform choreographed dances based on the classical ballet technique. Their work involves rigorous physical training, flexibility, strength, and expressive movement to interpret music and tell stories through dance. Ballet dancers often perform in professional companies, theaters, or ballet productions, and may also teach or choreograph. The career requires dedication, discipline, and ongoing practice to master and maintain technical skills.

What qualifications do you need to be a ballet dancer?

To become a ballet dancer, individuals typically need formal training from a ballet school or conservatory, often starting at a young age. A strong foundation in technique, flexibility, and strength is essential, and many dancers pursue a bachelor's degree in dance or related fields. Professional experience, auditions, and sometimes certifications in dance or related disciplines are also important for career advancement.

What are typical challenges ballet dancers face in maintaining peak performance throughout a season?

Ballet dancers often face the challenge of managing physical fatigue and preventing injuries during demanding rehearsal and performance schedules. Maintaining peak performance requires diligent self-care, including proper nutrition, rest, and cross-training. Dancers must also adapt quickly to different choreography and performance styles, often collaborating closely with choreographers, fellow dancers, and support staff to ensure seamless shows. Staying motivated and resilient mentally is crucial, especially when balancing multiple roles or performances within a short timeframe.

What is the difference between Ballet Dancer vs Contemporary Dancer?

AspectBallet DancerContemporary Dancer
Training & CertificationsFormal ballet training, often with certifications from dance academiesVaried training, including modern dance, improvisation, and contemporary techniques
Work EnvironmentClassical ballet companies, theaters, stage performancesModern dance companies, experimental theaters, diverse performance spaces
Industry UsagePrimarily in classical ballet productions and academiesIn contemporary dance performances, festivals, and innovative projects

While both ballet dancers and contemporary dancers perform on stage and require strong dance skills, ballet dancers focus on classical techniques and formal training, whereas contemporary dancers embrace a broader range of styles and improvisation. The choice depends on the dance style and performance context.

What are the most commonly searched types of Ballet Dancer jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Ballet Dancer jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Ballet Dancer jobs in Washington? For Ballet Dancer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Ballet Dancer jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Ballet Dancer jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Ballet Dancer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Ballet Dancer job openings:
Infographic showing various Ballet Dancer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, 36% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $54,322 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Ballet Teacher - Recreation Program Classes

City of Gaithersburg

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Part-time

Posted 6 days ago


City Of Gaithersburg rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

664th of 844 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description Applications are being accepted for a part-time Ballet instructor to teach classes and/or workshops offered through the City of Gaithersburg Department of Parks, Recreation & Culture. Ballet Instructors must be qualified to teach all levels of ballet classes, including pre-school introductory movement classes and Intro to Ballet through Pointe. Classes are held in the City's dance studio at Casey Community Center in late afternoon, evenings, and on weekends.

Hours per week varies depending on class registrations and retention of students. The position is an opportunity for long-term career expansion. Classes are offered quarterly and are scheduled approximately four months in advance.

Classes are scheduled based on instructor and space availability prior to the schedule being published. Hourly rate will be within the range of $35 to $40 per hour or 45-minute class based on qualifications, training, certifications, and experience. Job Functions What you will do with us: Instruct students in specific ballet/dance skills and assist participants with improvement and progression appropriate to the level of ballet/dance being taught.

Develop choreography that both engages and educates the participants; provide music to be used during the classes. Outline and plan class activities within City guidelines; prepare venue; ensure equipment is available and functioning properly. Perform a safety check of class area; maintain integrity of facility and ensure a safe class environment.

Maintain effective and consistent communication with program supervisor, other staff, class participants, and parents of participating youth. Create a positive and encouraging environment for participants in the program, encouraging continuation and progression. Participate in the Biannual Recital including measuring for costumes, choreography unique to each level class, and attendance at the dress rehearsal and recital.

Provide outstanding service, pursue continuous improvement, and exceed expectations. Key responsibilities are highlighted above; please click here to view the complete classification description for the Recreation Classes Instructor position. Qualifications What you will need to be considered: Previous experience teaching, leading, and motivating participants in ballet.

Qualified to teach ballet classes at all skills levels (pre-school introductory through advanced). National certification in dance preferred (such as National Dance Education Organization [NDEO] or Royal Academy of Dance [RAD]). Ability to understand, demonstrate, and use correct French terminology for ballet movement.

Excellent interpersonal, verbal communication, and customer service skills. Ability to remain poised, positive, courteous, and professional at all times. The physical skills and abilities required to prepare for, instruct, and demonstrate ballet at the upper level.

High school diploma or equivalent; college degree with a focus on dance or dance education preferred. At least 18 years of age by time of hire. Ability to choreograph or access to simple routines.

CPR/AED and First Aid certification (may be obtained through the City upon hire). Or any acceptable equivalent combination of education, experience, and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to satisfactorily perform job duties and functions. Additional Information Interested applicants must submit an online application to be considered.

Your application should include your education history, relevant work experience (paid or volunteer), any pertinent skills or certifications/licenses you have, and/or provide additional information that might be relevant to the job you are applying for. Incomplete applications will not be processed. Review of applications will begin immediately.

Prompt application is highly encouraged. Recruitment will close without notice when a sufficient number of qualified applications are received or all hiring decisions have been made. Successful candidates will be subject to a background check and drug/alcohol screening.

The City has established an alcohol-free, drug-free, and smoke-free workplace which applies to any person employed by, conducting business with, or applying for a position with the City. Each employee, as a condition of their employment, may be required to participate in pre-employment and reasonable suspicion testing. Employees classified as safety sensitive are also subject to immediate post accident and random testing.

Direct deposit of paychecks is a condition of employment for all City of Gaithersburg employees. For more information about this position, contact Program Supervisor Lauren Chambers at Lauren.Chambers@gaithersburgmd.gov. Questions regarding the online application process may be directed to the Department of Human Resources at 301.258.6327 or hr@gaithersburgmd.gov

This recruitment will establish an eligibility list which will be used to fill any current vacancies and other openings or opportunities in this classification which occur in the next 6 months.


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