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Dance Program Director Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Activity Therapist

New Baltimore, MI · On-site

$25 - $28.42/hr

Plan, direct and implement activity therapy programs as a component of the patient's treatment plan ... Instruct patients in activities and techniques, such are sports, dance, music, art or relaxation ...

Activity Therapist

New Baltimore, MI · On-site

$25 - $28.42/hr

Plan, direct and implement activity therapy programs as a component of the patient's treatment plan ... Instruct patients in activities and techniques, such are sports, dance, music, art or relaxation ...

Activity Therapist

New Baltimore, MI · On-site

$25 - $28.42/hr

Plan, direct and implement activity therapy programs as a component of the patient's treatment plan ... Instruct patients in activities and techniques, such are sports, dance, music, art or relaxation ...

Plan, organize, direct and implement the activities within the treatment program to facility ... Instruct patients in activities and techniques, such are sports, dance, music, art or relaxation ...

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Dance Program Director information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$29.2K

$77.4K

$135.6K

How much do dance program director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for dance program director in Detroit, MI is $77,411.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,500.00 and $91,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Detroit, MI?

The most popular types of Dance Program jobs in Detroit, MI are:

What are popular job titles related to Dance Program Director jobs in Detroit, MI?

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

What job categories do people searching Dance Program Director jobs in Detroit, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Dance Program Director jobs in Detroit, MI are:

What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Dance Program Director jobs?

Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Dance Program Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Dance Program Director job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, and 45% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $77,411 per year, or $37.2 per hour.

$60 - $80/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Henry Ford Behavioral Health Hospital is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Certified Activity Therapist to join our multidisciplinary treatment team. In this role, you will help patients develop healthy coping skills, improve social functioning, and support their recovery through innovative and therapeutic activity-based interventions.

Required Qualifications
  • Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) or
  • Certification in a recognized specialty area such as:
    • Art Therapy
    • Dance/Movement Therapy
    • Music Therapy
    • Other expressive or activity-based therapy disciplines
  • Clinical professional licensure (LPC, LMSW, LCPC, or equivalent) with certification in a related expressive or activity-based therapy discipline.
  • CPR Certification (or ability to obtain upon hire).
  • De‑escalation and restraint certification required (training provided by the facility).
Position Summary

As a Certified Activity Therapist, you will plan, coordinate, and facilitate therapeutic recreation and expressive therapy programs that align with patients' individualized treatment plans. Working collaboratively with the interdisciplinary treatment team, you will provide structured therapeutic activities designed to promote emotional wellness, social interaction, skill development, and recovery.

Our state‑of‑the‑art, two‑story behavioral health hospital in West Bloomfield provides a modern, healing environment designed to support patient recovery and staff success. Features include:

Features
  • Contemporary treatment spaces
  • Six outdoor therapeutic healing areas
  • Evidence‑based psychiatric care
  • Collaborative interdisciplinary teams
  • Opportunities for professional growth and development
  • A mission‑driven culture focused on compassionate patient care

We provide specialized mental health treatment for adolescents, adults, and senior adults, helping individuals achieve stability, recovery, and improved quality of life.

Essential Functions
  • Complete activity assessment through patient observation and patient/family interview, obtaining information on the patient’s needs, skills, interests and limitations for the development and implementation of the treatment plan.
  • Plan, organize, direct and implement the activities within the treatment program to facility patient progress with treatment goals.
  • Plan and implement an activities program including but not limited to therapeutic leisure skills and activities, leisure education and leisure awareness.
  • Facilitate and lead activity sessions to improve patient mental and physical well‑being.
  • Instruct patients in activities and techniques, such as sports, dance, music, art or relaxation techniques designed to meet their specific needs.
  • Develop treatment plans and implement activity interventions that meet patient needs and interests and help the patient achieve his/her treatment goals.
  • Engage patients in therapeutic activities, such as exercise, games and community outings.
  • Help patients learn social skills needed to become or remain independent.
  • Modify activities to suit the needs of specific groups.
  • Demonstrate a positive, empathetic and professional attitude towards customers always. When patient needs are not met, acknowledge and work to resolve complaints. Recognize that patient safety is a top priority.
Other Functions
  • Perform other functions and tasks as assigned
Education / Experience / Skill Requirements
  • Bachelor's Degree in Therapeutic Recreation, Recreational Therapy or related field required.
  • Three or more years’ experience in recreation in a healthcare setting with knowledge of patient population served by the facility required.
  • Previous experience in recreation in a healthcare setting is preferred.
Licenses / Designations / Certifications
  • Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS)
  • Certification in a recognized specialty area (Art Therapy, Dance/Movement Therapy, Music Therapy, etc.)
  • Clinical professional licensure (LCPC, LPC, LMSW, etc.) with certification in a related expressive or activity‑based therapy discipline
  • CPR and de‑escalation and restraint certification required (training available upon hire and offered by facility).
  • First aid may be required based on state or facility requirements.
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