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Dance Judge Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fred Astaire Dance Studios

Dance Instructor

Boise, ID · On-site

It's what our students tell us they notice from the first time they step inside our studio - an energy and sense of "dance family" that is welcoming, non-judgmental, and FUN! Fred Astaire Dance ...

Fred Astaire Dance Studios

Dance Instructor

Mesa, AZ · On-site

It's what our students tell us they notice from the first time they step inside our studio - energy and sense of "FADS community" that is welcoming, non-judgmental, and FUN! Fred Astaire Dance ...

Fred Astaire Dance Studios

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 ...

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Dance Judge information

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How much do dance judge jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for dance judge in the United States is $25.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $29.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dance judge?

A Dance Judge evaluates dance performances in competitions based on criteria such as technique, expression, musicality, and choreography. They provide scores and constructive feedback to dancers to help them improve. Dance Judges often have extensive experience in dance, either as performers, instructors, or choreographers. Their role is essential in ensuring fairness and professionalism in dance competitions.

What are the typical responsibilities of a dance judge during a dance competition?

As a Dance Judge, your main responsibilities include observing routines closely, scoring based on predefined criteria, and providing detailed feedback to dancers. You may need to collaborate with a panel of judges to ensure consistency and fairness in scoring, and sometimes participate in deliberations for tie-breakers or special awards. Judges are expected to prepare by reviewing competition guidelines and standards prior to each event and maintain impartiality throughout. This role requires strong attention to detail, focus during long sessions, and the ability to deliver constructive, supportive critiques to dancers at various skill levels.

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

To thrive as a Dance Judge, you need extensive knowledge of dance techniques, choreography, and performance standards, often supported by formal dance training and experience in competitions. Familiarity with standardized scoring systems and, in some cases, certification from recognized dance bodies or judging organizations is typically required. Strong observational skills, impartiality, and clear communication help Dance Judges provide constructive feedback and ensure fairness. These skills are vital to accurately evaluate performances and maintain credibility within the dance community.

How to become a dance judge?

To become a dance judge, individuals typically need experience in dance performance or teaching, and often pursue certification from a recognized dance or competition organization. Developing a strong understanding of dance techniques, rules, and judging criteria, along with attending training sessions, is essential for this role.

What are the qualifications to be a dance judge?

To be a dance judge, individuals typically need a strong background in dance, often demonstrated through experience or training, and may require certification from a recognized dance or judging organization. Good observational skills, impartiality, and knowledge of judging criteria are essential, and some positions may require attending training sessions or workshops. A professional demeanor and the ability to provide constructive feedback are also important qualities for dance judges.
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Dance Judge jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dance Judge job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 32% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 9% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,631 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

2027 Dance Adjudicator/Judge

Freehold, NJ • On-site

Journey Dance Competition
See more jobs at Journey Dance Competitionexternal

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Description

About Us:

Journey Dance Competition takes pride in producing the industry's best dance competitions. We deliver exciting, world-class live events in a high-energy, feel-good atmosphere. Our team is made up of the friendliest and most dedicated professionals, who are driven by passion and have made the commitment to serve. Thanks to their extensive training, attention to detail, and our seamless, on-time events, we consistently surpass expectations, ensuring that each event leaves a lasting impression and creates unforgettable memories. Come work alongside a fired-up, passionate, and fun team that's driven to do great work.


Our mission is to deliver the best dance competition experience, honoring every guest with care and detail-because everyone deserves to be recognized and celebrated.


What We Give Back
  • Paid training, paid travel, double-occupancy lodging, and event meals
  • Professional and self development - confidence, leadership, adaptability, communication, and real-world experience you'll carry for the rest of your career. 
  • A team culture worth showing up for - passionate team members who care as much as you do, and friendships that outlast the season.
  • Industry connections - dance educators, choreographers, studio owners, and professionals from across the country
  • Hands-on experience in live events, production, hospitality, customer service, and operations
  • Room to grow - more responsibility, new skills, and a real path into leadership. A lot of our leads started exactly where you're about to.
About The Role:

Journey is seeking to hire Judges that are rich in knowledge and experience and able to assess dancers of all ages, levels, and genres. Judges should be able to deliver critiques in an enthusiastic fashion from the first to the last routine. Your message must be insightful and encouraging for the dancers and choreographers. Clear and concise communication, age-appropriate language, and dance terminology are required, as well as the ability to remain seated and visibly engaged for up to five hours per session. This position is multi-faceted, as you are required to assess, critique, educate, and encourage dancers and choreographers while projecting excitement and being consistent, fair, and professional. If you are looking to make an impact on this young generation of dancers and remain true to Journey's mission and vision, apply now!


What a Weekend Actually Looks Like:
  • Thursday - travel to the event city from your designated meeting point or airport
  • Friday-Sunday - early call times, long days, back-to-back sessions, non-stop energy
  • Monday - travel home
What You Need to Know:
  1. Seasonal employment with Journey Dance Competition Tour, January - July
  2. Must be available for Mandatory Virtual Team Training; December 13th, 2026
  3. Must be available for Mandatory In Person training: January 8-10, 2027
  4. Must be willing to travel by road or air
  5. Must be 18 or older
  6. Must be available from Thursday to Monday for travel
  7. Travel from a specified meeting point or airport will be required
  8. Minimum commitment 4 events or more
  9. Paid training, travel, double occupancy lodging, and event meals
  10. Ability to drive is a plus
  11. Official government ID required
  12. Background check required

Requirements

What Winning Looks Like:
  • Have a knowledge and understanding of dance competition judging and scoring
  • Remain visibly engaged, present, and attentive from the first routine through the last
  • Record verbal critiques for every routine
  • Present special recognition awards to dancers on stage with a relatable, inspiring, and celebratory message
  • Evaluate technical proficiency, including precision, execution, and dance techniques
  • Attend to all other duties assigned by the Event Director(s) as needed
Skills Needed to Win:
  • Experience as a Dance Educator is required
  • Strong communication skills and knowledge of proper technical language
  • Ability to assess overall performance, musicality, timing, and synchronization with others
  • Ability to assess and critique artistic interpretation, evaluating creativity, expression, and emotional connection
  • Ability to make quick, informed decisions under pressure
  • Experience as a Dance Competition Judge is a plus but not required
  • Background in Professional Performance is a plus but not required
Who Thrives Here:

Humble. You check your ego at the door. You're open to feedback, willing to adjust, and never assume you have nothing left to learn. You respect every dancer, studio, and team member, and understand that being a great judge is about serving the dancers, not being the most important person in the room.

Hungry. You come prepared, engaged, and ready to give your best from the first routine to the last. You take ownership of your role, stay focused even during long days, and are always looking for ways to make your critiques more valuable and your impact stronger.

Smart with people. You read the room. You know how to deliver honest feedback with encouragement, communicate professionally with your fellow judges and team, and adapt your approach to the moment. You understand that what you say, how you say it, and how you carry yourself all matter.


Be Part of the Team:

The job isn't always easy, but that's what makes it rewarding. You'll be challenged, trusted, and pushed to grow while working alongside a team that cares deeply about what we do and the people we do it for. Bring your energy, your work ethic, and your heart. We'll take care of the rest. 


It's a passion, and we're dedicated to making an impact in the dance world. Join Team Journey!


Equal Opportunity Employer

Journey Dance Competition is an equal-opportunity employer and is committed to providing a workplace that is free from discrimination of any kind. We celebrate diversity and are dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law. We comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment.


What does all of this mean? We hire the best person for the job-regardless of race, color, sex, age, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, etc.

Click here to learn more about equal employment opportunity.

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