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Dance Program Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dance Instructor

Gig Harbor, WA · On-site

$17.13 - $22.19/hr

Effectively communicate program information and student progress as needed. * Monitor student attendance and development in all dance classes. Report back to Arts Director frequently around class ...

Become our next Program Director leading sports, gymnastics, cheer, dance, and ninja. Apply Today! About the Role This is a high-energy, hands-on leadership role where you'll oversee sports ...

Under the direction of the Camp Director, the Dance Coach is pivotal in crafting and leading the dance program at our summer dance camp. Responsibilities include developing engaging dance activities ...

Dance Instructor

Silverdale, WA · On-site

$17.13 - $18.28/hr

Effectively communicate program information and student progress to the youth and/or arts director and members at each session. * Attend center and association dance staff training and meetings as ...

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 ...

We are looking for a Dance Instructor to join our team at the Y! We spend our days positively ... the director/supervisor, complaints or compliments of the program * Attend staff meetings and ...

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Dance Program Director information

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$29.5K

$78.2K

$137K

How much do dance program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for dance program director in the United States is $78,196.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,000.00 and $92,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

More about Dance Program Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Dance Program Director jobs? Cities with the most Dance Program Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Dance Program jobs? The most popular types of Dance Program jobs are:
What states have the most Dance Program Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Dance Program Director jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Dance Program Director jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Dance Program Director jobs are:
Infographic showing various Dance Program Director job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $78,196 per year, or $37.6 per hour.
Dance Instructor

$17.13 - $22.19/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties is seeking a Dance Instructor to join our team!
The YMCAfocuses on empowering people in all forms, by improving health and well-being and inspiring action in and across our neighborhoods.
This position supports the work of the Y, a leading non-profit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.
As a Dance Instructor, you will provide leadership, instruction, and motivation for dance program participants while delivering a quality experience to students and parents.
Key Responsibilities
  • Follow/Implement our Association Quality Standards and 9 Dimensions of Well Being into Youth Programming and Staff Development.
  • Participate in annual dance recitals, dance performances, Y Arts Week events and other YMCA events as assigned.
  • Create class lesson plans with a natural progression that relate to the abilities and ages of the classes being taught as well as reflect YMCA dance curricula and YMCA core values.
  • Choreograph dances for end of year performances.
  • Effectively lead virtual arts classes, to include but not limited to Facebook Live, Zoom webinars, Arts Camps and additional social media formats.
  • Effectively communicate program information and student progress as needed.
  • Monitor student attendance and development in all dance classes. Report back to Arts Director frequently around class updates, staff development and member experience.
  • Attend branch and association dance staff trainings and meetings as required.

Are you a good fit?
  • 5 years of formal dance training or comparable experience (preferred).
  • 1-2 years of experience as a dance teacher and/or teaching assistant (preferred).
  • Experience teaching classes, pre-school through adult, beginning through intermediate levels (preferred).
  • Positive attitude and previous experience with varying ages and diverse populations
  • Possess the knowledge and skills to teach beginning and intermediate level dance classes.
  • Demonstrated ability to choreograph beginning and intermediate level pieces for dance recitals.
  • First-hand knowledge of performance and dance production.
  • You are committed to valuing and promoting diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.
  • Knowledge of safety procedures and dance and office equipment set-up (preferred).
  • CPR, First Aid, AED certifications (preferred).
  • Able and willing to complete online Child Abuse Prevention training on first day, and other online and in-person training as required.
  • Must be able to pass Background and Reference checks (in accordance with the WA State Fair Chance Act).

Classes: Beginner to advanced; Ballet, Hip Hop, Tap, and Jazz
Wages:$17.13 - $22.19/hour (Compensation is determined based on relevant experience, skills, and qualifications, with most new hires starting between the minimum and midpoint of the posted wage range)
Hours: Part-Time, Up to 25 hours per week
Location: Tom Taylor Family YMCA, Gig Harbor, WA
Benefits:
All YMCA Employees receive the below benefits:
  • A Personal YMCA membership and YMCA360 virtual streaming membership
  • Flexible scheduling around school and extracurricular activities Paid Sick Leave accrued at 1.23 hours for every 40 hours worked per year
  • Employee Assistance Plan (EAP), Digital mental health counseling platform, Wellness program, and LifeMart employee discount center
  • Professional training, education, and certification opportunities
  • 20% discount on YMCA programs, childcare services and merchandise

Part-Time employees who work more than 20 hrs./week are eligible for the below voluntary benefit options:
  • HealthiestYou: by Teladoc (24/7 virtual general medical care access for non-emergency conditions)
  • Willamette Dental Plan
  • VSP Vision Plan

Ignite your Passion, Live the Y Cause, and Join our Team! To apply visit our website at www.ymcapkc.org
The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties is committed to diversity and inclusion throughout our organization and is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Women/Minority/Veteran/Disabled.
Dance Instructor Job Description
Position Summary
Provides leadership, instruction and motivation for dance program participants. Provides a quality experience to students and parents focused on YMCA core values: honesty, respect, responsibility, and caring.
Key Responsibilities
• Follow/Implement our Association Quality Standards and 9 Dimensions of Well Being into Youth Programming and Staff Development.
• Participate in annual dance recitals, dance performances, Y Arts Week events and other YMCA events as assigned.
• Create class lesson plans with a natural progression that relate to the abilities and ages of the classes being taught as well as reflect YMCA dance curricula and YMCA core values.
• Choreograph dances for end of year performances.
• Effectively communicate program information and student progress as needed.
• Monitor student attendance and development in all dance classes. Report back to Arts Director frequently around class updates, staff development and member experience.
• Attend branch and association dance staff trainings and meetings as required.
• Lead dance technique classes to YMCA members.
• Teach and demonstrate positive dance principles.
• Assist with annual dance recital production, including dress rehearsals and performances.
• Effectively engage and lead volunteers, including Dance Teachers in Training, to provide quality programming for participants and positive volunteer experiences.
• Meet performance measurement through annual giving, major gifts, and/or endowment by telling the Y story and raising charitable dollars to fulfill our mission.
• Embraces and actively promotes an inclusive and equitable work environment.
• Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications, Skills and Abilities
• Minimum of 16 years of age or older.
• 5-10 years of formal dance training or comparable experience.
• 3-5 years of experience as a dance teacher and/or teaching assistant.
• Preferred: Experience teaching classes, beginning through advanced levels.
• Positive attitude and previous experience with varying ages and diverse populations
• Possess the knowledge and skills to teach classes, pre-school through adult, beginning through advanced levels. Multiple disciplines preferred.
• Ability to create comprehensive lesson plans that reflect students' level and ability.
• Demonstrated ability to choreograph beginning and advanced level pieces for dance recitals.
• First-hand knowledge of performance and dance production.
• Preferred: Knowledge of safety procedures and dance and office equipment set-up.
• CPR, First Aid, AED certifications.
• Complete online Child Abuse Prevention training on first day. Complete other online and in-person training as required.
Working Conditions/Physical Demands
• Regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms.
• Occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Must frequently lift or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift or move a higher amount.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
• Occasionally may need to plan and participate in programming outdoors.
• Ability to lead dance/various arts classes.
Employee Acknowledgement
This job description indicates the general nature and levels of work, knowledge, skills, abilities and other essential functions expected of this position. This document is not an exhaustive list and other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or assigned at any time with or without advanced notice.
This job description does not constitute a contract of employment and the YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties may exercise employment-at-will rights at any time.
By signing below, you are acknowledging that you have read the document in its entirety and that you understand the requirements, essential functions, and job duties of this position. Further, you acknowledge that you are able to perform the duties of the position with or without reasonable accommodation(s), and that should you need assistance, that you are responsible for notifying your Director, Executive Director, and/or Human Resources.