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Dancer Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

City of McHenry (IL)

Dance Instructor

Mchenry, IL · On-site

$17/hr

This positions supervises and facilitates dance programs for youth ages 3-17 based on the seasonal brochure calendar. Posting will remain open until filled. Job Duties DECISION MAKING AND JUDGMENT ...

City of McHenry, IL

Dance Instructor

Mchenry, IL · On-site

$17/hr

This positions supervises and facilitates dance programs for youth ages 3-17 based on the seasonal brochure calendar. Posting will remain open until filled. Job Duties DECISION MAKING AND JUDGMENT

NORTHBROOK PARK DISTRICT

Dance Instructor

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

The Northbrook Park District is seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Dance Instructor to inspire and educate students of all ages in a variety of dance styles (including tap dance) within our ...

Northbrook Park District

Dance Instructor

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

The Northbrook Park District is seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Dance Instructor to inspire and educate students of all ages in a variety of dance styles (including tap dance) within our ...

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All JobsDancer JobsDancer Jobs in Elgin, IL

Dancer information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$14

$15

$18

How much do dancer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 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 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.
More about Dancer jobs

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Cities near Elgin, IL with the most Dancer job openings:

Dancer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dancer job openings in Elgin, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 44% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,160 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Dance Instructor

Vernon Hills Park District

Vernon Hills, IL • On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Part-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

The Dance Instructor is responsible for planning and leading developmentally appropriate dance classes for students, fostering an engaging and supportive learning environment.

REPORTS TO: Recreation Supervisor 

QUALIFICATIONS

Must have strong knowledge of various dance genres, including ballet, lyrical, and tap, with the ability to instruct in these styles. Have experience in teaching dance and working with children. Strong understanding of the developmental needs of children. Ability to commit to the full duration of the program. Self-motivated, responsible, and reliable. CPR certification (or willingness to obtain within 60 days of hire). Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to maintain a positive and safe learning environment.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

  • Plan and deliver age-appropriate dance lessons that align with students' developmental levels and learning goals.
  • Maintain organization and communicate clear expectations to students.
  • Exhibit professionalism through dependability, punctuality, and a positive attitude.
  • Create a positive and structured classroom environment with appropriate discipline and respect for all students.
  • Ensure student safety and supervision throughout the duration of the program.
  • Prepare the classroom by allowing sufficient time for setup and cleanup before and after each session.
  • Build positive relationships with students and their families, maintaining open lines of communication.
  • Communicate regularly with Supervisors regarding the progress of the program and any potential challenges.
  • Assist with the general maintenance of the classroom and storage areas, keeping them clean and organized.
  • Attend required CPR training and maintain certification.
  • Start and end classes on time to ensure a smooth transition for students and families.
  • Perform other duties as assigned to support the program's success.

SAFETY AND RISK MANAGEMENT

  • Maintains a working knowledge of all general agency and departmental-specific safety rules.
  • Uses material handling equipment or staff assistance when lifting and or moving objects 25 pounds or less.
  • Reports any work-related or patron injuries to supervisor promptly.
  • Attends required safety program and in-service education meetings.
  • Corrects unsafe conditions and/or reports them to supervisor.

PSYCHOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS 

  • Must work closely with co-workers and the general public.
  • Experiences ongoing concerns for all safety and liability issues.
  • Must have ability to deal with other people under stressful situations.
  •  May have to work under stressful situations when First Aid or CPR are required.

PHYSIOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS

  • Lifting is occasional, usually 25 pounds or less.
  • May need to respond to situations quickly and accurately.
  • May involve significant lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, some climbing, balancing, and frequent stooping, kneeling and crouching,

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS

  • May be required to work during various weather conditions, including hot temperatures.

COGNITIVE CONSIDERATIONS

  • Must be knowledgeable about subject matter and constantly strive for improvement.
  • Must use good judgment at all times and be aware of immediate surroundings.
  • Must be able to respond to and handle participant behaviors in a positive appropriate manner.

This is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements and working conditions associated with the job. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the current job, management reserves the right to revise the job when circumstances change; e.g., emergencies, deadlines, personnel changes, workload and technological development, etc.

Must have strong knowledge of various dance genres, including ballet, lyrical, and tap, with the ability to instruct in these styles. Have experience in teaching dance and working with children. Strong understanding of the developmental needs of children. Ability to commit to the full duration of the program. Self-motivated, responsible, and reliable. CPR certification (or willingness to obtain within 60 days of hire). Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to maintain a positive and safe learning environment.

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