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Dance Program Director Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

... Gym Director, and is primarily responsible for ensuring that The Little Gym program is taught ... dance and sports prep, plus enjoyable extras like camps, Parents' Survival Nights and Awesome ...

Gym Director

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$65K - $67K/yr

Selling the program to new and existing customers For 50 years The Little Gym has set the standard ... dance and sports prep, plus enjoyable extras like camps, Parents' Survival Nights and Awesome ...

Showing results 21-40

Dance Program Director information

See Washington, DC salary details

$33.4K

$88.6K

$155.2K

How much do dance program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for dance program director in Washington, DC is $88,564.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,000.00 and $104,800.00 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?

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 the most commonly searched types of Dance Program jobs in Washington, DC? The most popular types of Dance Program jobs in Washington, DC are:
What are popular job titles related to Dance Program Director jobs in Washington, DC? For Dance Program Director jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Dance Program Director jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Dance Program Director jobs in Washington, DC are:
Infographic showing various Dance Program Director job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 55% Part Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 92% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,564 per year, or $42.6 per hour.

School Accompanist - NW Campus

The Washington Ballet

Washington, DC • On-site

$40/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Department: NW CampusPosition Title: School Accompanists – NW Campus Reports to: Music SupervisorClassification: Part-time, Seasonal Hourly Wage: $40Location: Washington, DCScope:The School Accompanist is a member of the music team responsible for providing live piano accompaniment for ballet and related dance classes, including classical ballet, pointe, pas de deux, variations, and character. The accompanist collaborates closely with faculty to provide music that supports technical instruction, artistry, and musicality for students of varying ages and levels. The successful candidate demonstrates excellent sight-reading, improvisation, and a broad classical repertoire while adapting to a variety of teaching styles. General Responsibilities: Accompany ballet classes for students in Pre-Ballet through Upper Division, Trainee, and Adult Programs as assigned. Collaborate with faculty to provide music appropriate to the technical and artistic objectives of each class. Adjust tempo, dynamics, phrasing, and musical selections to meet instructional needs. Improvise when appropriate to support combinations and classroom instruction. Arrive prepared and on time for assigned classes and rehearsals. Maintain professional communication with faculty, supervisors, and staff. Attend accompanist meetings or training sessions as requested. Internal Contacts:School Director, Managing Director, School Manager, Faculty, other front-facing staff Qualifications - Education and ExperienceProfessional experience accompanying ballet classes or rehearsals in a professional ballet company, conservatory, or dance school preferred. Professional and Technical Competencies:Strong piano performance skills, including sight-reading and improvisation. Broad knowledge of classical music repertoire appropriate for ballet training. Understanding of ballet class structure, terminology, musical phrasing, and tempo. Ability to observe dancers while playing and respond quickly to instructional cues. Ability to collaborate effectively with faculty possessing a variety of teaching styles. Strong organizational and time-management skills. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team. Flexible, dependable, and able to adapt to changing classroom needs. Supports the mission, values, and educational philosophy of The Washington Ballet and The Washington School of Ballet.Knowledge of:Piano performance Classical music repertoire Music theory and improvisation Ballet terminology and class structure Equipment Knowledge and Use:PC and softwareStandard office equipment Physical RequirementsAbility to sit and play piano for extended periods. Ability to lift or move music books and materials up to 25 pounds. Ability to move between studios throughout the workday. Ability to work evenings and weekends as assigned. Equal Opportunity Statement The Washington Ballet is dedicated to fostering a welcoming environment in all aspects of its work, from artistic performances and ballet education to community engagement and workplace culture. We prioritize presenting artists and perspectives that reflect the dynamism of DC. Through our community partnerships and campus locations, we intentionally bring opportunities to communities throughout the DMV, ensuring fairness in hiring and employment practices. BenefitsPaid Sick Leave Free adult drop-in dance classes Comp and discount tickets to TWB shows Application InstructionsPlease submit your resume, cover letter, and three references. We encourage all interested applicants to apply even if they do not feel they meet 100% of the qualifications. We are dedicated to considering a wide array of candidates including those with non-traditional background and experience in the performing arts. Please use your cover letter to elaborate on what you hope to bring to this role and how your prior experience has prepared you for this opportunity. About The Washington BalletFounded more than 80 years ago, The Washington Ballet grew out of the success of The Washington School of Ballet, founded and directed for years by legendary dance pioneer Mary Day. Today, The Washington Ballet's mission is threefold: To bring the joy and artistry of dance to the nation's capital and the world's stage through the professional presentation of the best in classic and contemporary ballet; To provide the highest caliber of dance training through a preeminent school of ballet; and to serve and involve the entire community through extensive dance education and community engagement programs.