1

Dance Instructor Jobs in Bend, OR (NOW HIRING)

Dance Instructor information

See Bend, OR salary details

$8

$26

$46

How much do dance instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for dance instructor in Bend, OR is $26.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $31.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dance instructor?

Dance instructors are professionals who teach individuals or groups various styles of dance, such as ballet, hip-hop, jazz, ballroom, or contemporary. They demonstrate dance moves, develop lesson plans, and provide feedback to help students improve their technique and performance. Dance instructors may work in dance studios, schools, community centers, or offer private lessons. They often have experience as dancers themselves and may hold certifications or degrees in dance or education.

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

To thrive as a Dance Instructor, you need a deep understanding of dance technique, choreography, and teaching methods, often supported by formal dance training or certification. Familiarity with audio equipment, video analysis tools, and music editing software is typically required. Strong communication, motivational skills, and patience help engage students and foster a positive learning environment. These skills are vital for delivering effective instruction, ensuring student progress, and maintaining class enthusiasm.

How do dance instructors typically structure their classes to accommodate students with varying skill levels?

Dance Instructors often organize classes with a warm-up, skill-building exercises, and choreography, allowing them to assess and support students at different abilities. They may offer modifications or alternative movements for beginners while challenging more advanced students with complex steps. Instructors also encourage peer support and create a positive environment where students feel comfortable progressing at their own pace. This approach helps everyone improve and feel included, regardless of experience.

What is the difference between Dance Instructor vs Dance Coach?

AspectDance InstructorDance Coach
CredentialsTypically requires dance training, certifications, or teaching credentialsOften has extensive dance experience, coaching certifications, or specialized training
Work EnvironmentClassrooms, studios, schools, community centersPerformance settings, competitions, private coaching sessions
Employer & Industry UsageDance schools, studios, educational institutionsCompetitive teams, professional dance companies, private clients
Search & Comparison IntentLooking to teach dance to students of all agesSeeking specialized training or performance coaching

While both dance instructors and dance coaches work to improve dancers' skills, dance instructors focus on teaching dance techniques and choreography in educational settings. Dance coaches typically work with dancers preparing for performances or competitions, providing targeted training to enhance their performance skills. Understanding these differences helps individuals find the right role based on their goals and experience.

How do you become a dance instructor?

To become a dance instructor, you typically need to have extensive dance experience and proficiency in a specific style, often supported by formal training or certifications. Many employers also require CPR certification and a background check, and some may prefer candidates with teaching experience or dance-related degrees. Developing strong communication skills and a passion for teaching are also important for success in this role.

What qualifications do you need to be a dance instructor?

To become a dance instructor, individuals typically need a strong background in dance, often demonstrated through formal training or performance experience, and may require relevant certifications or teaching credentials depending on the setting. Good communication skills, patience, and the ability to teach different age groups are also important. Some employers prefer candidates with CPR certification and a background check.

What are popular job titles related to Dance Instructor jobs in Bend, OR?

For Dance Instructor jobs in Bend, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Dance Instructor jobs in Bend, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Dance Instructor jobs in Bend, OR are:

What cities near Bend, OR are hiring for Dance Instructor jobs?

Cities near Bend, OR with the most Dance Instructor job openings:

Infographic showing various Dance Instructor job openings in Bend, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 14% Full Time, and 86% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,526 per year, or $26.7 per hour.

Specialty Instructor- Line Dance

Bend, OR • On-site

$24.56 - $28/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Part-time
Description
Benefit type: part time, non benefited
Benefits available: For a full description of our benefits, please click here.
Come join our Team at Bend Parks and Recreation District! We are looking for Fitness Instructors that can teach a variety of formats.
About the job:
The Fitness Specialty instructor develops and instructs safe and rewarding group exercise classes and/or personalized safe and rewarding wellness and exercise programs, assisting individuals to achieve their personal fitness goals.
A day in the life:
Duties may include, but are not limited to the following:
  • Instructs assigned classes, programs and activities.
  • Plans, organizes and implements curriculum based upon overall program objectives and guidelines.
  • Creates and delivers personal training programs and activities based on client goals; assists
  • individual in developing and implementing modifications as indicated.
  • Closely supervises and oversees the safety, comfort and progress of participants.
  • Assists class participants in developing and achieving their individual goals.
  • Develops rapport with participants and responds to questions, concerns, etc.
  • Collaborates with Fitness Program Coordinator/Fitness Program Assistant/Management staff to develop, plan and schedule classes, programs, sessions, and follow-up.
  • Communicates with staff regarding facility availability, schedules, equipment and supply needs.
  • Completes before and after class/session shift duties; sets up, takes down, cleans-up, before and after class as required.
  • Maintains all required records and forms.
  • Addresses program specific risk management and facility safety and cleanliness issues.
  • Facilitates inclusion of special needs participants in program.
  • Manages accidents and incidents according to procedures.
  • Acts as a mandatory reporter; reports incidents of child abuse/neglect.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Work Schedule:
Varying times including weekends, early morning and evening shifts.
Location: Classes may be taught at both Juniper Swim & Fitness Center and Larkspur Community Center.
Requirements
What you'll need for success:
Strong Knowledge of:
  • Exercise physiology, anatomy, Kinesiology, and current best practices in personal training and fitness practices and techniques for group and individualized classes.

Skill and Ability to:
  • Lead fitness classes utilizing a variety of techniques, styles and formats;
  • Instruct and provide for the needs of a variety of ages and fitness levels;
  • Communicate effectively to a variety of audiences including age, abilities and levels; strong planning, organizational, leadership, and interpersonal skills;
  • Demonstrate a positive, motivating and caring demeanor when training;
  • Physically perform the duties associated with this position;
  • Demonstrate competency in specialized area;
  • Ability to prepare and present lessons effectively to a variety of audiences;
  • Professionally handle disruptions and conflicts; responding to problems and addressing customer service concerns;
  • Handle emergency situations as they arise;
  • Work cooperatively with others and create a positive, constructive relationship with staff and customers.

What we're looking for:
Required Experience & Training:
  1. High School diploma or equivalent; college coursework or vocations training with emphasis in related field preferred; AND
  2. Two (2) years of professional level experience in area of specialty area; OR
  3. Some teaching experience required.
  4. Any satisfactory combination of experience and training.

License & Certification:
  1. Possession of a professional certification in skilled area preferred in applicable areas (i.e. ACE, AEA, AFAP, other for Fitness Instructors; ASCA for Masters Swim Coaches, USFA for Skate Instructors)
  2. Some positions may require possession of, or ability to obtain valid Oregon driver's license within 30 days with an acceptable driving history as defined by district driving policy.

Position Specific Requirement
This position may require reporting to additional sites throughout the workday, typically achieved in a motor vehicle OR other modes of transportation. If choosing a personal vehicle, possession of, or ability to obtain valid Oregon driver's license within 30 days with an acceptable driving history as defined by district driving policy.
If you do not have a driver's license or have an unacceptable driving history, it does not disqualify you from this position, only from driving a vehicle for district business.
Supervision Responsibilities:
Supervision is not normally a responsibility of this position.
Working Conditions:
The following are working conditions, including environmental and physical demands, required for this classification.
  • Work schedule is varied and requires weekday hours, evenings, weekends and holidays.
  • Work schedule requires constant attendance for short shifts.
  • The flow of work and character of duties involve normal mental and visual attention much or all of the time.
  • Physical exertion includes frequent walking, bending and lifting, pulling, and kneeling.
  • Work is done in a performance type setting and can be physically demanding.
  • Position requires constant use of voice. Job stress may include dealing with crowds, uncooperative participants, difficult individuals, and periods of continuous demand.

Selection Process:
Applicants are screened based upon their relevant knowledge, abilities, skills, experience, and training and willingness to learn the skills required for the position. An offer of employment is contingent on the verification of credentials and other information required by Bend Park & Recreation District policies, including a background check and a driving history review when driving is required for position.
Application consideration and wage calculation:
To be considered for this position, applicants must have a complete online application. Your application materials and any submitted responses to the supplemental questions will be the basis for our evaluation. Incomplete information may result in disqualification and/or affect your starting wage.
Veteran Preference Status
Under Oregon law, veterans who meet minimum qualifications for a position may be eligible for employment preference. To qualify for veterans' preference, you must submit required documentation prior to the closing date of the recruitment. Veterans' preference cannot be awarded without required documentation. Beginning January 1, 2026, certain preferences will also apply to current and former members of the Oregon National Guard. For more information on if you qualify for veterans' preference visit https://www.oregon.gov/boli/workers/pages/veterans-preference.aspx
Equal Employment Opportunity:
Bend Park and Recreation District is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Bend Park & Recreation District Core Competencies:
All positions with Bend Park and Recreation District are subject to district and position competencies. Below is a list of the most critical competencies for this position. Additional competencies are required for the position and may change based on district needs. A complete list of the competencies is available from Human Resources.
Accountability • Customer Service Orientation • Safety • Judgment and Decision Making • Teamwork and Cooperation • Results Orientation •
Salary Description
$24.56 - $28.00