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Dance Program Director Jobs in Chicago, IL (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.

New

Lead gymnastics, dance, cheer & ninja while supporting sports as well. Pay starting at $21.00 per ... The Program Director is responsible for but not limited to: managing program operation, development ...

Supervise children closely and provide feedback or direct parent/guardian questions to the ... Actively support the safety program that will effectively control and reduce accidents * Obey the ...

Rehearsal Director & Coach

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

About The Position The Rehearsal Director is responsible for supervising rehearsals and staging ... Program (EAP), and much more. About The Joffrey Ballet Considered one of the premier dance ...

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Dance Program Director information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$30.4K

$80.6K

$141.1K

How much do dance program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for dance program director in Chicago, IL is $80,553.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,600.00 and $95,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Dance Program Director, and why are they important?

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 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 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 popular job titles related to Dance Program Director jobs in Chicago, IL? For Dance Program Director jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Dance Program Director jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Dance Program Director jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Dance Program Director jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Dance Program Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Dance Program Director job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 43% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,553 per year, or $38.7 per hour.

Dance Instructor

Morton Grove Park District

Morton Grove, IL • On-site

Part-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Salary: $20$30 per hour

Dance Instructor

Job Description

Summary:

Under the direction of Recreation Supervisor and Dance Coordinator. Dance teachers are responsible for instructing students in ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop and other forms of dance as determined by the supervisor. Dance teachers plan their dance program to meet students needs. Explain and demonstrate techniques and methods of dance, drill pupils in execution of dance steps, choreograph and direct dance performances according to style of dancing taught. Participate in the planning and execution of the annual dance recital.

Qualifications:

Must be at least 21 years old. Degree in Dance or Education with dance experience preferred. Experienced in dance performance required and teaching experience preferred. Ability to work independently and creatively.

Essential Functions:

  1. Arrive in studio 15 minutes prior to the start of your first class for preparation.
  2. Responsible for daily set up and cleanup of studio.
  3. Maintain materials and storage areas.
  4. Develop lesson plans to include MGPD curriculum, a balanced dance program, organize daily class time so that preparation, rehearsal and instruction can be accomplished within the allotted time.
  5. Evaluate each students performance and technique.
  6. Keep appropriate records including attendance reports, emergency forms, costume orders and other records as necessary.
  7. Maintain a classroom atmosphere that is conducive to learning.
  8. Meet regular and predictable attendance requirements.
  9. Participate in staff meetings.
  10. Maintain professional competence in dance techniques.
  11. Prepare students to perform dances for the annual recital and showcase performances.
  12. Select music and costumes for each dance performance.
  13. Keep an open line of communication with the parents of students, keeping them informed as to the progress of their child.
  14. Work as a team with the dance staff to achieve the overall purpose of the program.
  15. Demonstrate good communication skills teaching a classroom.
  16. Submit availability for class scheduling purposes when requested.
  17. Performs other related duties as assigned.
  18. Fill in as a substitute for other teachers if possible.
  19. Fill out accident reports as needed.
  20. Display a cooperative, positive attitude when working with staff and students.
  21. Maintain knowledge of park district policies and ensure confidentiality of student and staff records and information.
  22. At no time should an instructor or assistant be in a closed room alone with a child, either another child, parent or staff member should be present.
  23. Do not release a child to anyone without written permission from the parents.
  24. Choreograph and participate in dance competitions if assigned.

Marginal Functions:

  1. Responsible for certain aspects of the annual spring dance recital as assigned.
  2. Dance recitals and showcases include but not limited to measuring students for costumes, music and costume selection, choreography, music taping, stage lighting needs, and student direction at dress rehearsal and performance.

Physiological Considerations:

  1. Ability to demonstrate technique, skills and choreography.
  2. Frequently sitting and walking.
  3. Occasionally balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching and reaching.

Environmental Considerations:

  1. Employee general work area is indoors, in a smoke fee, open office environment with controlled temperature and fluorescent lighting.
  2. Employee may be exposed to a variety of communicable diseases to include exposure to the potential of blood borne pathogens in a number of settings and areas within the Park District area.

Cognitive Considerations:

  1. Employee must be able to listen, hear and speak.
  2. Use of hands and fingers will regularly be required, and the ability to stand, sit and walk for extended periods of time.

Safety Consideration:

  1. Worker must be able to use good safety awareness and judgment.
  2. Worker must be able to participate in safety related training as required.
  3. Worker must be able to follow direction from supervisor with safe and effective follow through.

Employee Benefits:

Pool membership, fitness membership, fitness classes, and access to park district-run programs.

Pay Range:$20$30 per hour