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Dancer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Tango Dance Instructor

Ames, IA · On-site

$13.53 - $13.93/hr

Examples of Essential Job Functions Tango dance instruction to participants of Ames Parks & Recreation Wellness program. Educates participants on proper and safe exercise form. Each employee is ...

Tango Dance Instructor

Ames, IA · On-site

$13.53 - $13.93/hr

Tango dance instruction to participants of Ames Parks & Recreation Wellness program. * Educates participants on proper and safe exercise form. Each employee is expected to continually strive to bring ...

Cross Country Boys Head Coach, Boys Basketball Varsity Head, Girls Wrestling Varsity Head, Girls Wrestling Varsity Asst, Dance, Women's Head Varsity Swimming, Women's Head Varsity Golf, Assistant ...

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Dancer information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$15

$17

How much do dancer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for dancer in Iowa is $15.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $15.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dancer?

A professional dancer is a person that performs choreographed body movements, usually as part of a show or production. Dancers are highly trained and skillful artists that commit many long hours of practice and discipline to their trade. Many dancers begin as early as age five and continue training throughout their adult lives to develop their skills and balance. As performers, dancers may be the main performers in a production, like a ballet, or they may be a part of another stage performance and dance while a musician or band plays live music.

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

To thrive as a Dancer, you need strong technical proficiency in various dance styles, physical fitness, and typically formal training or a degree in dance. Familiarity with choreography software, stage equipment, and sometimes certification in specialties like teaching or fitness dance can be beneficial. Creativity, discipline, adaptability, and teamwork are standout soft skills in this profession. These skills and qualities are essential for delivering compelling performances, maintaining physical health, and collaborating successfully with choreographers and other performers.

What are some common challenges dancers face when working in a professional company, and how can they overcome them?

Professional dancers often encounter challenges such as rigorous rehearsal schedules, physical strain, and the need to quickly adapt to new choreography or styles. Balancing personal health with demanding performance commitments can be difficult, making injury prevention and self-care essential. Additionally, dancers must work collaboratively with choreographers, fellow dancers, and production teams, requiring strong communication and adaptability. Building resilience, maintaining a structured self-care routine, and fostering positive relationships within the company can help dancers navigate these challenges successfully.

What is the difference between Dancer vs Choreographer?

AspectDancerChoreographer
Required CredentialsDance training, sometimes formal educationDance experience, often formal training, and choreography skills
Work EnvironmentPerforming on stage, in music videos, or at eventsCreating dance routines, rehearsing with dancers, and directing performances
Industry UsagePerformers in theater, dance companies, entertainment showsDesigning dance routines for performances, shows, and productions

While dancers perform choreographed routines, choreographers create and design those routines. Dancers focus on executing dance movements, whereas choreographers develop the artistic vision and structure of the dance. Both roles often collaborate closely in the dance industry, but their primary responsibilities differ significantly.

How do I get a job as a dancer?

To get a job as a dancer, develop strong technical skills through training or dance classes, build a professional portfolio or audition reel, and gain experience by performing at local events or in productions. Networking with industry professionals and applying to dance companies, theaters, or entertainment venues are also essential steps.

What does a dancer get paid?

Dancers' pay varies widely based on the type of dance, experience, location, and employment setting. Professional dancers in theaters, television, or film can earn from $20,000 to over $100,000 annually, while those working as freelance or in smaller venues may earn less, often paid per performance or hour. Additional income may come from tips, teaching, or choreography work.

What is the best job for a dancer?

The best job for a dancer often involves performing in dance companies, theater productions, or as a freelance artist. Many dancers also find employment as dance instructors, choreographers, or in entertainment industries such as film, television, and music videos, requiring strong technical skills and physical fitness.

What jobs can I do as a dancer?

As a dancer, you can work as a performer in theaters, dance companies, or on tour, or find employment as a dance instructor or choreographer. Opportunities also exist in entertainment industries such as film, television, music videos, and commercial advertising, often requiring strong technical skills and performance experience.

What are popular job titles related to Dancer jobs in Iowa?

For Dancer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Dancer jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Dancer jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Dancer jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Dancer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Dancer jobs in IA?

For Dancer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Dancer job openings in Iowa as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% As Needed, 60% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,508 per year, or $15.1 per hour.

Tango Dance Instructor

Ames, IA • On-site

$13.53 - $13.93/hr

Part-time

PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Conduct tango dance instruction for participants in the Ames Parks & Recreation Wellness program.

  • Educate participants on proper and safe exercise form during dance classes.

  • Motivate participants and maintain a professional demeanor while leading dance sessions.


Job description

Centrally located in the heart of Iowa, Ames is a vibrant, progressive community with more than 66,000 residents providing an excellent quality of life. Home to Iowa State University, Ames offers year-round recreation opportunities, diverse cultural offerings, a stable economy, safe neighborhoods, and a high-achieving school district. General Information   The City of Ames Parks and Recreation Department has an exciting opportunity for a Tango Dance Instructor.

Candidates interested in this opportunity can expect to work a varied schedule of less than 20 hours per week. Instructors are directly accountable to the Public Wellness Manager and adjunctly accountable to the Recreation Superintendent and the Director of Parks & Recreation. This position is an ongoing, part-time, less than 20 hours per week position that is not benefit or paid leave eligible.

This posting is open until filled. Examples of Essential Job Functions Tango dance instruction to participants of Ames Parks & Recreation Wellness program. Educates participants on proper and safe exercise form.

Each employee is expected to continually strive to bring shared values to life through our Excellence Through People organizational culture. ETP values include: committing to continuous improvement; inspiring creativity and innovation; being customer driven; making data-driven decisions; championing employee involvement; striving for excellence; having fiscal stewardship; acting with honesty and integrity; exhibiting leadership; choosing a positive attitude; respect and dignity for one another; promoting safety and wellness; and cultivating teamwork. For leaders, this includes creating a work culture that brings these values to life.

For all employees, this includes maintaining a Total City Perspective. The purpose of ETP is to deliver exceptional services to the public at the best price, and for employees to experience an enjoyable and stimulating work environment. Qualifications Education and Experience: One year of tango dance instruction experience in at least one type of format (Boxing, Pilates, Yoga, older adult fitness, etc.)

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Working knowledge of human anatomy, kinesiology and training principles; knowledge of group fitness teaching classes and the incorporation of music, tempo, cueing technique, and rhythm. Ability to understand, appreciate and embody the City of Ames Core Values. Ability to maintain an exceptional level of safety.

Ability to maintain a professional appearance at all times. Ability to maintain a professional demeanor (calm and courteous) at all times while on site. Ability to motivate people and work well with other staff members.

Skill in choreography and music. Supplemental Information Physical & Environmental Characteristics: Must be able to move and lift objects up to 50 lbs. Indoor sounds may be moderately noisy.

Position requires physical participation and interaction related to the specific activity. Selection Process: The selection process consists of an evaluation of education and experience, an interview, and completion of a criminal background check, which includes a sex offender registry check. All candidates will be notified by email of their application status.

E-Verify Process: The City of Ames participates in E-Verify and will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each applicant's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization. All candidates who are offered a position with the City of Ames must complete Section 1 of Form I-9 along with the required proof of their right to work in the United States and proof of their identity on their first day of employment. Please be prepared to provide required documents on your first day of employment.

For additional information regarding acceptable documents for this purpose, please contact Human Resources at 515-239-5199 or go to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services web page at: http://www.uscis.gov. NOTE: Applicants with disabilities may submit requests for ADA testing or interview accommodations to the Human Resources Department prior to the test or interview. The City of Ames is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, ancestry, national origin, marital status, disability, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against. Inquiries can be directed to the Human Resources Department at 515-239-5199.