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Dance Instructor Assistant Jobs in Federal Way, WA

Dance Instructor

Sumner, WA · On-site

$17.13 - $22.19/hr

Attend center and association dance staff training and meetings as required. * Assist the youth and ... Dance Instructor Position Summary Provides leadership, instruction and motivation for dance program ...

Dance Instructor

Puyallup, WA · On-site

$17.13 - $18.63/hr

Attend center and association dance staff training and meetings as required. * Assist the youth and ... Instructor Position Summary Provides leadership, instruction and motivation for dance program ...

Dance Instructor

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$17.13 - $22.19/hr

Attend center and association dance staff training and meetings as required. * Assist the youth and ... Dance Instructor Position Summary Provides leadership, instruction and motivation for dance program ...

Dance Instructor

Gig Harbor, WA · On-site

$17.13 - $22.19/hr

... or teaching assistant (preferred). * Experience teaching classes, pre-school through adult ... Dance Instructor Position Summary Provides leadership, instruction and motivation for dance program ...

Dance Instructor

Sumner, WA · On-site

$17.13 - $22.19/hr

Attend center and association dance staff training and meetings as required. * Assist the youth and ... Dance Instructor Position Summary Provides leadership, instruction and motivation for dance program ...

Dance Instructor Assistant information

See Federal Way, WA salary details

$12.3K

$68.8K

$113.3K

How much do dance instructor assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for dance instructor assistant in Federal Way, WA is $68,819.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,300.00 and $74,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Dance Instructor Assistant vs Dance Teacher?

AspectDance Instructor AssistantDance Teacher
CredentialsBasic dance training, possibly certificationAdvanced dance training, teaching certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentAssist in classes, support lead instructor, work in dance studios or schoolsLead classes, develop lesson plans, direct students in dance techniques
Employer & Industry UsageDance studios, community centers, schoolsDance schools, educational institutions, studios

In summary, a Dance Instructor Assistant primarily supports and assists the Dance Teacher in class activities, often requiring basic dance knowledge. A Dance Teacher takes on a more active role in instructing, planning lessons, and leading students, usually with more advanced credentials and experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dance instructor assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Dance Instructor Assistant, you need a solid understanding of dance techniques, basic teaching methods, and often prior dance experience or formal training. Familiarity with sound systems, music editing software, and class management tools is frequently required. Exceptional communication, patience, and the ability to motivate and support students are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure effective class support, enhance student learning, and contribute to a positive and productive studio environment.

What is a dance instructor assistant?

Dance Instructor Assistants are individuals who support dance instructors by helping with class organization, demonstrating dance techniques, providing feedback to students, and ensuring a positive learning environment. They often assist with warming up, demonstrating steps, and working with students individually or in small groups. Their role is vital in larger classes or studios, as they help maintain structure and provide more personalized attention, enabling the lead instructor to manage the group more effectively.

What are the main responsibilities of a dance instructor assistant during a typical class session?

A Dance Instructor Assistant typically helps set up the studio, greets students, and supports the lead instructor by demonstrating movements and providing individual feedback to students. They may also help with classroom management, such as ensuring students stay focused and assisting with music or equipment as needed. Additionally, they often answer student questions, help with warm-ups and cool-downs, and support a positive, inclusive environment that encourages learning and growth. This hands-on involvement helps them build teaching skills and gain valuable experience in dance education.
What cities near Federal Way, WA are hiring for Dance Instructor Assistant jobs? Cities near Federal Way, WA with the most Dance Instructor Assistant job openings:

$17.13 - $18.63/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Position: Dance Instructor

Wage:$17.13 to $18.63 per 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:Mel Korum Family YMCA, Puyallup, WA
As a Dance Instructor, you'll lead energetic and engaging classes that help students build confidence, technique, and a love for dance. You'll teach and demonstrate choreography and motivate dancers of all skill levels to grow and express themselves. If hired, you will create a positive, organized, and safe class environment while communicating with parents and celebrating student progress, you'll help deliver a memorable and inspiring dance experience for everyone involved.
Qualifications:
  • Minimum of 16 years of age or older.
  • 5+ years of formal dance training or comparable experience (preferred).
  • 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.
  • Must be able to pass Background and Reference checks (in accordance with the WA State Fair Chance Act).
  • Committed to valuing and promoting diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.
  • Able and willing to complete online Child Abuse Prevention training on first day, and other online and in-person training as required.
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.
  • Other duties as assigned.
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
At the Y, we're all about empowering people, inspiring action, and strengthening the communities we call home. Join our team and support our vision of creating opportunity so all can thrive in every season of life. To apply, visit our website atwww.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.