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Dance Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Head of Mills Music Library

Madison, WI ยท On-site +1

$75K - $110K/yr

Acting as the primary liaison to the Mead Witter School of Music, the Dance Department, and related programs, the position provides advanced research services, leads instructional and outreach ...

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Dance information

See Madison, WI salary details

$8

$25

$44

How much do dance jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for dance in Madison, WI is $25.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.45 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dancer?

Dancers are performers who use movement, typically set to music, to express ideas, tell stories, or entertain an audience. They may specialize in various styles such as ballet, contemporary, hip hop, ballroom, or cultural dances. Dancers often work in theater productions, music videos, television, and live events, and may also teach dance classes. Training and physical fitness are essential for dancers to maintain their skills and prevent injuries.

What are some common challenges faced by professional dancers in maintaining physical and mental well-being?

Professional dancers often encounter challenges such as managing the risk of physical injuries, coping with long rehearsal hours, and maintaining peak physical condition. Additionally, the mental demands of performing, handling criticism, and balancing multiple roles can be significant. Many dancers address these challenges through regular conditioning, seeking support from physical therapists, and practicing mindfulness or stress-reduction techniques. Being part of a supportive dance company or ensemble can also foster a healthy work environment and promote both physical and mental well-being.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a professional dancer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Professional Dancer, you need strong technical proficiency in dance styles, physical fitness, and often formal training from a dance academy or conservatory. Familiarity with choreography software, music editing tools, and sometimes dance-related certifications is beneficial. Discipline, creativity, teamwork, and resilience are vital soft skills for adapting to demanding rehearsals and performances. These skills are crucial for delivering high-quality performances, collaborating with others, and sustaining a successful dance career.

What is the difference between Dance vs Choreographer?

AspectDanceChoreographer
Required CredentialsDance training, certifications vary by styleDance experience, often formal training, and choreography skills
Work EnvironmentPerforming on stage, studio settingsStudio, rehearsal spaces, production settings
Industry UsagePerformer in dance companies, productionsCreates and designs dance routines for performances
Common Search IntentLearning dance, performing, classesChoreography, dance creation, production roles

Dance involves performing and executing dance routines, often as a performer. A choreographer designs and creates dance routines, guiding performers. While dancers focus on execution, choreographers focus on creation and planning of dance pieces. Both roles are essential in the dance industry but serve different functions.

What are some dance professions?

Dance professions include roles such as professional dancer, choreographer, dance instructor, and dance therapist. These careers often require strong physical skills, training, and sometimes certification or formal education in dance or related fields. Opportunities can be found in theaters, dance companies, schools, and healthcare settings.

What is the best job for a dance?

A dance instructor or performer is a common career for those with dance skills, requiring training, physical fitness, and often certifications. These roles involve teaching dance classes, performing on stage, or working in entertainment settings, with schedules that can include evenings and weekends.

What jobs can you do with dance?

With a background in dance, you can pursue careers such as professional dancer, dance instructor, choreographer, dance therapist, or performer in theater, film, or television. These roles often require strong physical skills, creativity, and sometimes certifications or training in specific dance styles or teaching methods.

What are the most commonly searched types of Dance jobs in Madison, WI?

The most popular types of Dance jobs in Madison, WI are:

What are popular job titles related to Dance jobs in Madison, WI?

For Dance jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Dance jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Dance job openings:

Infographic showing various Dance job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 53% Full Time, 42% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,041 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Youth Dance Lead Instructor

Madison School & Community Recreation

Madison, WI โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Youth Dance Lead Instructor
Madison School & Community Recreation (MSCR) is Madison's public recreation provider. MSCR offers a wide variety of athletic, recreational, arts and enrichment activities and classes for all ages in an accessible, inclusive setting. Programs include swimming instruction, MSCR on the Move, arts & enrichment classes, youth summer camps, sports camps & clinics, adult & 50+ fitness, adult sport leagues including pickleball, softball and tennis, and a wide variety of outdoor pursuits including paddling sports, pontoon trips, camping, orienteering and challenge courses.
As a department of the Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD), MSCR also provides afterschool enrichment activities, clubs and sports as well as summer programming in Madison elementary, middle and high schools, Allied Learning Center and Meadowood Neighborhood Center. Afterschool clubs and sports include: arts & enrichment, homework/academic clubs, drama, dance, skiing, soccer, basketball, volleyball, cross country and much more!
Program Description:
MSCR's youth dance program is a vibrant and welcoming program dedicated to introducing a love of dance to individuals ages two and up and all skill levels. We offer a variety of recreational dance classes, including pre-ballet, ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, contemporary, lyrical and more. Our beginner classes introduce basic dance moves, rhythm, and coordination.
Job Description & Duties:
Did you love dance classes growing up? Share your love of dance with children in the community by teaching dance lessons! We are seeking passionate and experienced Lead Dance Instructors to teach dance classes in a recreational setting. The ideal candidates will have a strong background in dance, excellent teaching skills, and a love for working with children from all backgrounds.
Start Date: 9/19/2026
Work Location: MSCR East- 4620 Cottage Grove Road, Madison, WI 53716
Hours/week: 3-6 hours, varies based on staff availability and program needs.
Work hours: Varies based on availability. Classes are generally in the mornings, beginning around 9am and ending around noon in the summer, or in the evenings, beginning around 4pm and ending no later than 9pm. Your schedule will be based on your availability.
Payrate: 18.00 - 38.00 /hour
Minimum Qualifications:
โ€ข Must have formal dance training
โ€ข Past experience working with youth
โ€ข Previous dance instruction experience required for lead instructors.
Preferred Qualifications:
โ€ข Strong dance technique and performance skills
โ€ข Experience teaching dance to a variety of age groups, including preschoolers
โ€ข Experience working with youth from various backgrounds
โ€ข Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
โ€ข Ability to work independently and as part of a team
โ€ข Spanish-speaking, a plus
Other Information:
Please include a resume with your application and include dance styles you are qualified and interested in teaching. If offered an interview, you will be asked to provide a sample lesson plan for review.
For more information, contact Sarah Zahn at sazahn@madison.k12.wi.us