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Dancer Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

Whether you're teaching a tiny dancer taking their first steps or helping experienced performers perfect a recital routine, you'll have the opportunity to make a lasting impact while sharing your ...

Dance Teacher

Grayslake, IL ยท On-site

$38 - $40/hr

Children's Land is seeking an enthusiastic and talented Dance Teacher teaching dance to preschool aged children and staging children's performances. The hours are September through May, once a week ...

Dance Instructor (Part-Time)

Niles, IL ยท On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Niles Park District is seeking an enthusiastic dance instructor to join our team for the 2026-2027 season! We are looking for an instructor with Wednesday evening availability (4:45-7:45 PM) to teach ...

Dance Instructor (Part-Time)

Niles, IL ยท On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Niles Park District is seeking an enthusiastic dance instructor to join our team for the 2026-2027 season! We are looking for an instructor with Wednesday evening availability (4:45-7:45 PM) to teach ...

Dance Teacher

Grayslake, IL ยท On-site

$38 - $40/hr

Children's Land is seeking an enthusiastic and talented Dance Teacher teaching dance to preschool aged children and staging children's performances. The hours are September through May, once a week ...

Looking for dance instructor to add to the Sunset Dance Academy teaching staff. Classes will run from September 2026 - December 2026 - culminating with our Jingle Ball Dance Recital in December.

Showing results 21-40

Dancer information

See Elgin, IL salary details

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How much do dancer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for dancer in Elgin, IL is $15.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $16.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level dance jobs?

Entry-level dance jobs include positions such as dance assistants, studio instructors, or performers in community theater and events. These roles often require basic dance skills, a willingness to learn, and sometimes certification in dance or fitness instruction. They provide opportunities to gain experience and develop a professional dance career.

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 or be paid per performance or hour. Many dancers also supplement income through teaching or workshops.

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, which require strong technical skills and physical fitness.

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 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.

What jobs can I do as a dancer?

As a dancer, you can work as a performer in dance companies, theater productions, music videos, or live shows. Other options include teaching dance classes, working as a choreographer, or performing in cruise ships and entertainment venues. Success often requires strong technical skills, physical fitness, and sometimes certifications or auditions.

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 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.
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What cities near Elgin, IL are hiring for Dancer jobs? Cities near Elgin, IL with the most Dancer job openings:
Infographic showing various Dancer job openings in Elgin, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,160 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Dance Instructor (Part-Time)

Niles Park District

Niles, IL โ€ข On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Part-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Description:

Hours would depend on the number of classes/enrollments, but we estimate 1-5 hours per week.


  • Instructs children in scheduled dance classes.
  • Maintains a positive, safe, and nurturing environment.
  • Demonstrate techniques in class as model for students.
  • Prepares specific Dance Class objectives and implements a detailed class lesson plan.
  • Choreographs dance routines for dance classes to perform in annual dance recitals.
  • Chooses music and costumes that are appropriate for dancers' age & abilities.
  • Take accurate attendance for each class each session.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned, based on the park district’s needs.


Requirements:
  • Prior experience teaching dance, particularly to young children
  • Proficiency in various dance styles suitable for small children, such as ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, tumbling, or creative movement.
  • Ability to relate to, motivate, and energize students of all ages and skill levels.
  • Knowledge of child development and age-appropriate teaching methods.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills to engage with both children and their parents.
  • CPR and first aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
  • Has patience and passion for working with children.
  • Formal dance education or training preferred.