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How much do circus performer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for circus performer in the United States is $29.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $44.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the jobs at a circus?

Jobs at a circus include performers such as acrobats, clowns, jugglers, trapeze artists, and animal trainers. Other roles involve stagehands, costume designers, lighting and sound technicians, and administrative staff. Many circus jobs require physical skill, training, and sometimes specialized certifications or experience in entertainment or animal handling.

What is the difference between Circus Performer vs Circus Clown?

AspectCircus PerformerCircus Clown
Required SkillsAcrobatics, juggling, aerial actsComedy, physical humor, improvisation
Work EnvironmentCirque tents, stage performancesStage, parade routes, special events
Industry UsagePerforming arts, entertainmentEntertainment, comedy acts

While both roles are part of the circus industry, a circus performer specializes in physical acts like acrobatics and aerial skills, whereas a circus clown focuses on comedy, humor, and audience interaction. Both require performance skills but differ in style and focus, serving different entertainment purposes within the circus environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Circus Performer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Circus Performer, you need advanced physical abilities, performance skills, and specialized training in disciplines like acrobatics, juggling, or aerial arts. Mastery of safety equipment, rigging systems, and sometimes certifications in areas like first aid or specific apparatuses are typically required. Creativity, teamwork, and resilience are vital soft skills that help performers engage audiences and adapt to challenging environments. These skills ensure both captivating performances and the safety of the performer and their colleagues in a demanding live entertainment setting.

What are some common challenges circus performers face when working with a diverse team of artists?

Circus performers often collaborate with individuals from various disciplines, cultures, and backgrounds, which can present challenges in communication, timing, and creative vision. Adapting to different performance styles and coordinating complex group acts require strong teamwork and flexibility. Additionally, maintaining safety standards while performing demanding routines with others is crucial, so clear communication and trust are essential for a successful and harmonious team environment.

How can I become a circus performer?

To become a circus performer, develop skills in a specific act such as acrobatics, juggling, or clowning through training or specialized classes. Gaining experience by performing locally or in smaller shows helps build your portfolio, and physical fitness, flexibility, and safety training are essential for success in the industry.

What are circus performers?

Circus performers are skilled entertainers who participate in live shows that include a variety of acts such as acrobatics, juggling, clowning, aerial stunts, and animal performances. They often specialize in one or more disciplines and work as part of a team to create an engaging and visually impressive experience for audiences. Circus performers require rigorous training, physical fitness, creativity, and stage presence. Their work can take them to different venues around the world, including traditional big tops, theaters, and festivals.

How much is a circus performer paid?

Circus performers' salaries vary based on experience, skill level, and the size of the circus. On average, they earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, with some highly skilled or renowned performers earning more. Pay may also include per diem, accommodations, and performance bonuses.

What Is a Circus Performer?

A circus performer works in a circus and performs a variety of stunts and talents for the entertainment of the audience. In this career, your job duties depend on which of the circus arts that you perform. Some examples of circus entertainment include trapeze artists, acrobats, daredevils, animal trainers, and circus clowns. There are also a number of supporting entertainment roles that can be available depending on the circus for which you work. There may be the need for dancers, artists, singers, and baton twirlers. This job requires extensive traveling.

How much do circus entertainers get paid?

Circus entertainers' salaries vary based on experience, role, and the size of the circus, but they typically earn between $20,000 and $70,000 annually. Performers such as acrobats, clowns, and animal trainers may also receive tips and per diem allowances during tours.
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Circus Performer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Circus Performer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 28% As Needed, 50% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 23% Physical, and 77% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,286 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Enrichment Instructor (Part Time)

Circus of Smiles

Alameda, CA

Contractor

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Circus of Smiles offers school based enrichment classes throughout the East Bay. Our classes are about creativity and empowerment, and our instructors take great pride in creating an environment that is both collaborative and non-competitive. Our classes: How to be an Engineer, How to be a Ninja, How to Join the Circus, and more! A portion of the funds from each of our classes goes toward supporting our outreach efforts for youth in Oakland and abroad.

Job Description

Teach kids Circus, Creative Movement, Engineering or How to be a Ninja.

Our ideal candidate has teaching experience and is excited about a part time position teaching kids. Perfect for students, retired teachers, and performers. We provide training and a curriculum while you bring enthusiasm and compassion.

The Schedule
Classes are held once a week at each school for an hour, typically between 1-4pm, with additional time for setup and cleanup.  Occasionally we will have 2 classes back to back at one school.

Qualifications

You should have excellent leadership and a fun charismatic attitude. A background in the performing arts isn't necessary but is a definite plus. 

  • 2+ years teaching experience or relevant area of study
  • Excited about working with pre-k through 5th grade students
  • Ability to pass a Live Scan background check and provide proof of a negative TB-Test result
  • Reliable transportation

Teacher Responsibilities:

  • Manage a class of 8-25 students
  • Build positive relationships with families, teachers, and school staff
  • Account for all students enrolled
  • Set up and clean up classroom
  • Attend skill building workshops
  • Have fun while making sure students are having a great time!
Additional Information

Why Circus of Smiles?
Our students grow through play in an environment that focuses on social emotional learning. Our instructors thrive in the classroom thanks to hands on support and professional development opportunities. We foster imagination, encourage teamwork, and inspire smiles.

We Want to Pay You To Do What You're Good At!
Lead Instructors: $35-$40/class
Assistant instructors: $25/class

Apply