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Dancer Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

City of McHenry (IL)

Dance Instructor

Mchenry, IL

$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 ...

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How much do dancer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 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.
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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 - Starlights

Streamwood, IL • On-site

Streamwood Park District
51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Streamwood Park Districtexternal

$16.25 - $20.28/hr

Part-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Job Summary
Hiring now for Dance Instructors!
The Dance Instructor is responsible for planning and implementing dance skills and routines that are age appropriate and within the capabilities of the children.  The Instructor is responsible for the essential functions as outlined below.  This is a part-time position with hours possibly scheduled seven days per week.  The Dance Instructor is under the direction and supervision of the Recreation Manager. This is an at-will position. 
Qualifications
  • Must have a High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Must possess knowledge and experience of all skills being taught in Hip Hop, Tap, Jazz, and/or Ballet.
  • Must be able to perform accurately and safely all skills being demonstrated.
  • Must be enthusiastic and patient.
  • Must be able to communicate effectively with parents/guardians.
  • Must have at least three (3) years of dance instruction experience in tap, jazz and/or ballet.
  • Must have a valid Driver's License and able to tavel to and from performance venues.
  • Must be CPR certified within six (6) months of hiring.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities
  • Employee will arrive at least 10 minutes before scheduled class time to be prepared when the children arrive.
  • Employee will prepare and implement appropriate skills and dance recital routines.
  • Employee will develop and maintain a positive relationship with the parents/guardians.
  • Employee will decide on the music, costumes and accessories for their Performance/Dance Recital routines.
  • Employee will be responsible to find 2-3 performance locations for the dancers.
  • Employee must be available for the Summer Celebration Parade in July.
  • Employee must be present at both the dress rehearsal and annual dance recital to aid in all production aspects of the show.
  • Employee must attend all recital meetings, to include parent meetings and staff meetings.
  • Employee will submit all information to the Recreation Manager in a timely manner.
  • Employee will keep the work area/room neat, clean and orderly.
  • Employee will communicate and cooperate with the Streamwood Park District staff.
  • Employee will wear appropriate clothing at all times.
  • Employee will be fair and consistent in maintaining discipline.
  • Employee will allow significant time for the Recreation Manager/Registration to call participants when cancelling a class; if significant time is not allowed, instructor must make the calls.
  • Employee will take attendance at the beginning of every class.
  • Employee must let the Recreation Manager know if a participant is attending class, but is not registered.
  • Employee must distribute Program Evaluation Forms to parents after each session.
  • Employee must distribute Dance Parent Handbooks to participants at the beginning of each session.
  • Employee will stay until all children have been picked up by a parent/ guardian.

Benefits 
Please see applicable benefits at: SPD-PayTransparency-WebsiteDisclosure-2025.pdf
CURRENT PAY RANGE: $16.25-$20.28 per hour
TARGET HIRING RANGE:Newly hired employees can expect $17.50-$18.00 per hour.
If interested, please apply early. Recruiting and interviewing will begin soon.
The Streamwood Park District is an equal opportunity employer.














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