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Dance Instructor Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Fred Astaire Dance Studios

Dance Instructor

Columbia, MD · On-site

Whether you have years of dance and/or dance instructor experience or none at all, you could have a successful future with us! If you love interacting with people, having fun, helping others, staying ...

Fred Astaire Dance Studios

Dance Instructor

Columbia, MD · On-site

Whether you have years of dance and/or dance instructor experience or none at all, you could have a successful future with us! If you love interacting with people, having fun, helping others, staying ...

Fred Astaire Dance Studios

Dance Instructor

MD · On-site

Whether you have years of dance and/or dance instructor experience or none at all, you could have a successful future with us! If you love interacting with people, having fun, helping others, staying ...

Fred Astaire Dance Studios

Dance Instructor

Columbia, MD · On-site

Whether you have years of dance and/or dance instructor experience or none at all, you could have a successful future with us! If you love interacting with people, having fun, helping others, staying ...

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All JobsDance Instructor JobsDance Instructor Jobs in Washington, DC

Dance Instructor information

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$9

$27

$48

How much do dance instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for dance instructor in Washington, DC is $27.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $32.69 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 the most commonly searched types of Dance Instructor jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Dance Instructor jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to Dance Instructor jobs in Washington, DC?

For Dance Instructor jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Dance Instructor jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Dance Instructor jobs in Washington, DC are:

Dance Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dance Instructor job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,726 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Dance Instructor

Columbia, MD • On-site

Fred Astaire Dance Studios
See more jobs at Fred Astaire Dance Studiosexternal

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

We are growing! Fred Astaire Dance Studios® is excited to be adding to our team of professional dance coaches. We are currently hiring for a Dance Coach. Whether you have years of dance and/or dance instructor experience or none at all, you could have a successful future with us! If you love interacting with people, having fun, helping others, staying VERY active, and having control over what you earn, you will love a career with Fred Astaire!
As a high energy, customer-focused coach, you will conduct private and group dance classes throughout the week. You and your Fred Astaire team will help students to reach their personal dance goals through many different ways - from a single event to a lifelong journey of dance growth. You will have a unique honor to enhance people's lives every day. You will meet and work closely with people from all walks of life which will give you a level of personal enrichment you could never experience in any other environment.
We maintain regular studio hours throughout the week; however, we host many events that take place on some weekday evenings and some weekends as well which you will need and want to attend with your students.
Who we are:
Enriching lives - physically, mentally, emotionally & socially, through the positive, transforming power of dance.
Fred Astaire Dance Studios® is the leader in ballroom dance instruction across the country and around the world. Founded in 1947 with one studio on Park Avenue in Manhattan, we have grown our franchise network to 180 dance studio locations serving over 25,000 students! We are global family, proudly honoring the legacy of Mr. Fred Astaire, committed to pursuing excellence of life through dance.
We welcome everyone who is interested in starting their dance journey because we believe that dance is for everybody and for every BODY! People ask "Why do students stay with Fred Astaire Dance Studios®?" It is because of the atmosphere of kindness, warmth and care given and received at every location. It's what our students tell us they notice from the first time they step inside our studio - an energy and sense of "FADS community" that is welcoming, non-judgmental, and FUN!
Fred Astaire Dance Studios® has something for everyone. We offer group and private lessons, choreograph wedding dances or just prepare the happy couple and wedding party for the big day, provide opportunities to perform in beautiful venues, host local parties for dance practice and comradery and we host an average of 35 spectacular branded National, Inter-Regional and Regional Dance Competitions annually giving our students and professionals opportunities to compete in a variety of categories.
Requirements
Successful Dance Coach:
  • Are self-motivated, enthusiastic and 100% passionate about dance.
  • Have outstanding customer service skills.
  • Understand what it takes to be successful and are willing to commit to the work.
  • Hold themselves accountable.
  • Are unselfish team players.
  • Eagerly accept coaching and feedback for improvement.
  • Have a positive outlook - cup is always half full.
  • Establish exceptional physical fitness/endurance levels to perform this role successfully.
  • Have strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work with students of all ages.

Benefits
As a Fred Astaire Certified Dance instructor, you can expect us to provide you:
  • A high energy-fun filled work environment!
  • A variety of activities to participate in and offer students such as group and private lessons, performances, parties and competitions.
  • The best initial and ongoing professional dance training in the country.
  • A robust and well-established dance curriculum and program to teach the students.
  • Access to top-level national dance coaches to help further your dance skills.
  • Expert training programs to develop both your dance and business skills.
  • Professional advancement at all management levels including studio ownership!
  • Opportunities to compete and earn championship titles and prize money in both Pro and Pro-Am categories.
  • Beautiful venues to perform with another professional and with your students.
  • Travel opportunities.

Our compensation plan includes multiple components:
  • Salary commensurate with experience
  • Multiple opportunities to earn bonuses.
  • Competition winnings
  • Benefits including: PTO/Vacation, Continuing Education, Health and Wellness Benefits

Apply