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Circus Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Umd

Performance Lecturer

College Park, MD

$41K - $45K/yr

Certification or in-depth experience with a physical theatre technique (including Alexander, Laban, circus and clowning) * Teaching experience at the university level * Experience teaching other ...

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Circus information

See Reston, VA salary details

$35.4K

$68.5K

$102K

How much do circus jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for circus in Reston, VA is $68,496.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,100.00 and $77,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the jobs in a circus?

Jobs in a circus include performers such as acrobats, clowns, jugglers, and animal trainers, as well as technical staff like lighting and sound technicians, costume designers, and stage managers. Many roles require physical skill, creativity, and teamwork, with some positions needing specialized training or certifications. Staff members often work long hours in a dynamic environment, especially during performances and rehearsals.

What are workers in a circus called?

Workers in a circus are commonly called performers or acts, including roles such as acrobats, clowns, jugglers, and animal trainers. They may also be referred to as circus staff or crew, depending on their specific duties within the production environment.

How much money does a circus worker make?

Circus workers' salaries vary depending on the role, experience, and location. Performers such as acrobats or clowns may earn from $20,000 to over $50,000 annually, while support staff like technicians or stagehands typically earn between $20,000 and $40,000 per year. Many positions also include tips, bonuses, or per diem payments during tours.

Do circus performers have other jobs?

Circus performers often have other jobs outside their performances, especially during off-season periods or when not touring. Many also work as instructors, trainers, or in related entertainment fields to supplement their income and maintain their skills.

What is the typical work environment and schedule like for circus performers?

Circus performers often work in dynamic environments that may include large tents, arenas, or theaters, and their schedules can involve irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and extensive travel during tours. Teamwork is a major part of the job, as performers rely on each other for safety and seamless execution of complex routines. Rehearsals, equipment setup, and costume preparation are common daily responsibilities. While the job can be physically demanding and requires adaptability to different venues and audiences, it also provides opportunities for personal and professional growth as performers develop new acts and skills.

What is a Circus job?

A circus job involves performing or working behind the scenes in a traveling or stationary circus. Roles range from acrobats, clowns, and animal trainers to technical staff, riggers, and management. Performers entertain audiences with skilled acts, while support staff ensure smooth operations. Workers may travel frequently and must be adaptable to varied environments. Circus jobs require dedication, physical endurance, and a passion for entertainment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Circus position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a circus role, you need a strong foundation in physical fitness, discipline in practicing specialized performance arts, and often prior experience or formal training in performing arts or acrobatics. Many circus professionals utilize equipment such as safety harnesses, rigging systems, and specialized props, and may acquire certifications in areas like aerial safety or first aid. Adaptability, teamwork, and the ability to engage and entertain audiences are essential soft skills in this field. These skills ensure both safe, high-quality performances and a positive collaborative atmosphere vital for touring and show success.

What job categories do people searching Circus jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Circus jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Circus jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Circus job openings:
Circus jobs near you

Performance Lecturer

Umd

College Park, MD

$41K - $45K/yr

Part-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Job Description Summary & Additional Information

The University of Maryland, School of Theatre, Dance, and Performance Studies (TDPS) is searching for a 9-month non-tenure eligible lecturer in theatre performance to begin August 2026. This is a 50%, benefits-eligible appointment with a teaching load of six credits per semester. The initial appointment will be for two years with the possibility of extension. Non-tenure track appointments are remunerated at a per 3-credit rate of $5,231.88 in the first year, with increases thereafter. Duties will include developing and teaching an array of undergraduate courses in theatre performance. Courses taught may include Foundations of Acting and Performance, Acting for Non-Majors, Introduction to the Theatre, The Art of Communication and Presentation, Voice for the Actor, Musical Theatre, Actors Process, Acting for Film, Character Development, Archetypes and Business of the Business. We are seeking theatre practitioners with a certification (or certification in-process) in Linklater, or equivalent experience.

We seek candidates whose teaching and service have prepared them to contribute to the four pillars of the ARHU Strategic Plan: Transformative Thinking; Boundless Creativity; Expansive Empathy; and Meaningful Futures. Contributions toward those goals and values might include leadership in teaching, mentoring, or service towards building an equitable and inclusive scholarly environment and/or increasing access or participation of all individuals equitably and fairly. Lecturers who teach two or more courses per term are benefits-eligible. This search is contingent upon the availability of funds.

Minimum Qualifications

  • MFA degree in theatre
  • Demonstrated experience as a professional theatre practitioner
  • Certification (or certification in-process) in Linklater, or equivalent experience
  • Teaching experience
  • Demonstrated ability to incorporate diverse perspectives into teaching and research
  • Ability to work collegially and collaboratively

Preferred qualifications

  • Experience as a professional director or actor
  • Certification or in-depth experience with a physical theatre technique (including Alexander, Laban, circus and clowning)
  • Teaching experience at the university level
  • Experience teaching other specialty theatre performances courses (including directing, devising and acting for film)
  • Experience teaching in a culturally diverse environment

Required Application Materials:

  • An application letter

  • A current CV

  • The names and contact information for three references

  • Sample teaching materials, i.e., course syllabi and course evaluations.

Best Consideration Date: 05/04/2026

Open Until Filled: Yes

All materials must be uploaded to the University of Maryland webbased employment application system via the University of Maryland's job site: https://umd.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UMCP by May 4, 2026.

The University of Maryland, College Park, is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment. University's Equal Employment Opportunity Statement of Policy.

UMD will not sponsor the successful candidate for work authorization in the United States now or in the future.

DepartmentARHU-School of Theatre, Dance & Performance StudiesWorker Sub-Type Faculty RegularSalary Range$41,855.05 - $45,550.11 (Annual)Background Checks

Offers of employment are contingent on completion of a background check. Information reported by the background check will not automatically disqualify anyone from employment. Before any adverse decision, the finalist will have an opportunity to provide information to the University regardingdisclosablebackground checkinformation. The University reserves the right to rescind the offer of employment or otherwise decline or terminate employment if the information reported by the background check is deemed incompatible with the position, regardless of when the background check is completed.

Employment Eligibility

The successful candidate must complete employment eligibility verification (on Form I-9) by presenting documents that establish identity and work authorization within the timeframe required by federal immigration law, and where applicable, to demonstrate renewed employment authorization. Failure to complete employment eligibility verification or reverification within the timeframe set forth by law may result in suspension or termination of employment.

EEO Statement

The University of Maryland, College Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment. Please read the University's Equal Employment Opportunity Statement of Policy.

Title IX Non-Discrimination NoticeResources

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