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Dance Program Director Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Dance Instructor

Naperville, IL · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

This position is under the direct supervision of the Dance Coordinator. Essential Duties ... Provide recommendations for curriculum enhancement to Dance Academy Coordinator and Program Manager.

Dance Instructor

Naperville, IL · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

This position is under the direct supervision of the Dance Coordinator. Essential Duties ... Provide recommendations for curriculum enhancement to Dance Academy Coordinator and Program Manager.

Dance Instructor

Gurnee, IL · On-site

$19 - $27/hr

A Dance Instructor instructs, explains, and demonstrates techniques and methods of dance with ... Be a direct contact for parents and students involved in program during class time * Instructors ...

Dance Instructor

Gurnee, IL · On-site

$19 - $27/hr

A Dance Instructor instructs, explains, and demonstrates techniques and methods of dance with ... Be a direct contact for parents and students involved in program during class time * Instructors ...

... program at all times Responsible for selecting, instructing, directing, and supervising the flow of work PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS Must be motivated and able to implement oral and written ...

... children in program at all times * Responsible for selecting, instructing, directing, and ... Supervise and facilitate dance activities to youth ages 3-17 * Basic First Aid and CPR/AED ...

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Dance Program Director information

What does a dance program director do?

A Dance Program Director oversees the planning, development, and management of dance programs at institutions such as schools, studios, or community organizations. Their responsibilities include designing curriculum, hiring and supervising instructors, organizing performances, and ensuring the quality and safety of dance instruction. They often manage budgets, coordinate schedules, and serve as a liaison between students, parents, and staff. The role requires a blend of artistic vision, administrative skills, and a passion for dance education.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dance program director?

To thrive as a Dance Program Director, you need expertise in dance education, curriculum development, and program management, often supported by a degree in dance or arts administration. Familiarity with scheduling software, budgeting tools, and compliance with safety and educational standards is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills are essential for inspiring staff, engaging students, and building community partnerships. These capabilities ensure the effective delivery and growth of dance programs while maintaining a positive and productive learning environment.

What are some common challenges a dance program director faces in balancing artistic vision with administrative responsibilities?

As a Dance Program Director, one of the main challenges is ensuring the program maintains a high artistic standard while effectively handling administrative tasks such as budgeting, scheduling, and staff management. Directors often need to juggle creative planning—like designing curricula and selecting repertoire—with operational duties, which can require strong organizational and communication skills. Collaboration with faculty, guest artists, and administrative staff is essential to keep the program running smoothly and aligned with institutional goals. Staying adaptable and maintaining open lines of communication helps address these challenges and fosters both artistic growth and program stability.

What is the difference between Dance Program Director vs Dance Instructor?

AspectDance Program DirectorDance Instructor
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in dance, arts administration, or related field; certifications may varyOften requires dance training, certifications, or teaching credentials
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple classes or programs, manages staff, and plans curriculum at dance schools or community centersTeaches individual or group dance classes, often in studios or schools
ResponsibilitiesProgram planning, staff management, budgeting, and curriculum developmentTeaching dance techniques, guiding students, and assessing progress

The main difference is that a Dance Program Director manages the overall dance program, including staff and curriculum, while a Dance Instructor focuses on teaching dance classes directly to students. The Director has broader administrative responsibilities, whereas the Instructor concentrates on instruction and student development.

What are the most commonly searched types of Dance Program jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Dance Program jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Dance Program Director jobs in Illinois?

For Dance Program Director jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Dance Program Director jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Dance Program Director jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Dance Program Director jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Dance Program Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Dance Program Director job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, and 59% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Dance Program Assistant (Student) (FWS)

American

Campus, IL • On-site

$18.40/hr

Part-time

Posted 9 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Assist the Dance Program Director and Faculty with administrative tasks.

  • Support recruitment activities by answering emails, greeting prospective students, and attending Preview Days.

  • Help with Dance production tasks such as auditions, rehearsal planning, and copying performance materials.


Job description

Work Where You Learn: Build Experience, Grow Skills, and Contribute to Your University Community.This position is available only to enrolled American University students.

Most student positions at American University are eligible to use Federal Work Study (FWS) awards, with a few exceptions. FWS funds cannot be applied to janitorial, construction, partisan or sectarian positions. For information or questions regarding FWS funds, please contact American University's Office of Financial Aid.

Important guidance for current American University employees: American University current employees, including those employed in student positions, must apply through their employee Workday account. If you are a current employee at American University, please log intoyour employee Workday accountand select the Find Jobs report which will take you to our internal career listings. Applying outside of your employee Workday account may cause delays in a hire process.

Department:

College of Arts & Sciences

Time Type:

Part time

FLSA Status:

Non-Exempt

Job Description:

Summary:

Assist the Dance Program Director and Faculty with a variety of administrative tasks. Assist with recruitment activities: answering emails concerning general questions about the Dance Program; greeting and touring Dance facilities with prospective students; attend Preview Days. Assist with Dance production tasks, such production auditions, rehearsal planning, copying performance materials.

Essential Functions:

  • Answer emails concerning general questions about the Dance Program.

  • Greet and touring Dance facilities with prospective students.

  • Attend Preview Days.

  • Assist with Dance production tasks, such production auditions, rehearsal planning, copying performance materials.

  • Other duties assigned.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:

  • Part-time.

  • 6 hours per week.

Salary Range:

  • $18.40 per hour.

Required Education and Exerience:

  • Current AU student with a Federal Work Study (FWS) award.

Other Details

  • This position is available only to enrolled American University students.

  • Please note this job announcement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

  • American University is an E-Verify employer.

  • Visit https://www.american.edu/hr/ for additional information about American University employment and benefits.

Current American University Employees

American University current employees (including those employed in student positions) must apply through their employee Workday account. If you are a current employee at American University, please log intoWorkdayand select the Find Jobs report which will take you to our internal career listings.

Contact Us

For more information or assistance with the American University careers site, emailtheworkline@american.edu.

American University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution that operates in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, personal appearance, gender identity and expression, family responsibilities, political affiliation, source of income, veteran status, an individual's genetic information or any other bases under federal or local laws (collectively "Protected Bases") in its programs and activities.