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Dancer Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

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Dancer information

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$15

$17

$19

How much do dancer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for dancer in Portland, OR is $17.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $17.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do I get hired as a dancer?

To get hired as a dancer, develop strong technical skills through training or dance classes, build a professional portfolio or demo reel, and gain experience by performing at local events or auditions. Networking with industry professionals and attending auditions or open calls are also essential steps in securing employment in dance roles.

What careers are there in dance?

Careers in dance include professional dancer, choreographer, dance instructor, dance therapist, and dance studio owner. These roles often require training in dance techniques, performance skills, and sometimes certifications or degrees in dance or related fields. Opportunities exist in performing arts companies, theaters, educational institutions, and healthcare settings.

What are dancers?

Dancers are performing artists who use movement, often set to music, to express ideas, tell stories, or entertain audiences. They may specialize in various styles, such as ballet, contemporary, hip-hop, ballroom, or cultural dances. Dancers often work in theater productions, music videos, dance companies, or even teach in studios. Their work requires significant physical training, creativity, and dedication. Many dancers also collaborate with choreographers and other artists to bring performances to life.

What jobs can you get as a dancer?

As a dancer, you can work in various roles such as performing in dance companies, theaters, or on stage for concerts and events. Other opportunities include teaching dance classes, working as a choreographer, or performing in music videos, films, and commercials. Many dancers also find employment in entertainment venues, cruise ships, or as backup dancers for artists.

What is the best job for a dancer?

The best job for a dancer often involves performing in theaters, dance companies, or as a freelance artist. Many dancers also find work in entertainment industries such as film, television, or music videos, and may teach dance classes or workshops to supplement their income.

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 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.
More about Dancer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Dancer jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Dancer jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Dancer jobs in Portland, OR? For Dancer jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Dancer jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Dancer jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Dancer jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Dancer job openings:
Dancer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dancer job openings in Portland, OR 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 $35,690 per year, or $17.2 per hour.
Dance Instructor

Dance Instructor

Fred Astaire Dance Studios

Portland, OR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

We are growing! Fred Astaire Dance Studios® is excited to be adding to our team of professional dance instructors. We are currently hiring for Dance Instructor. Whether you have years of dance and/or dance instructor experience or none at all, you could have a successful future with us! If you love interacting with people, having fun, helping others, staying VERY active, and having control over what you earn, you will love a career with Fred Astaire!
As a high energy, customer-focused instructor, you will conduct private and group dance classes throughout the week. You and your Fred Astaire team will help students to reach their personal dance goals through many different ways - from a single event to a lifelong journey of dance growth. You will have a unique honor to enhance people's lives every day. You will meet and work closely with people from all walks of life which will give you a level of personal enrichment you could never experience in any other environment.
We maintain regular studio hours throughout the week; however, we host many events that take place on some weekday evenings and some weekends as well which you will need and want to attend with your students.
Who we are:
Enriching lives - physically, mentally, emotionally & socially, through the positive, transforming power of dance.
Fred Astaire Dance Studios® is the leader in ballroom dance instruction across the country and around the world. Founded in 1947 with one studio on Park Avenue in Manhattan, we have grown our franchise network to 180 dance studio locations serving over 25,000 students! We are global family, proudly honoring the legacy of Mr. Fred Astaire, committed to pursuing excellence of life through dance.
We welcome everyone who is interested in starting their dance journey because we believe that dance is for everybody and for every BODY! People ask "Why do students stay with Fred Astaire Dance Studios®?" It is because of the atmosphere of kindness, warmth and care given and received at every location. It's what our students tell us they notice from the first time they step inside our studio - an energy and sense of "FADS community" that is welcoming, non-judgmental, and FUN!
Fred Astaire Dance Studios® has something for everyone. We offer group and private lessons, choreograph wedding dances or just prepare the happy couple and wedding party for the big day, provide opportunities to perform in beautiful venues, host local parties for dance practice and comradery and we host an average of 35 spectacular branded National, Inter-Regional and Regional Dance Competitions annually giving our students and professionals opportunities to compete in a variety of categories.
Requirements
Successful Dance Instructors:
  • Are self-motivated, enthusiastic and 100% passionate about dance.
  • Have outstanding customer service skills.
  • Understand what it takes to be successful and are willing to commit to the work.
  • Hold themselves accountable.
  • Are unselfish team players.
  • Eagerly accept coaching and feedback for improvement.
  • Have a positive outlook - cup is always half full.
  • Establish exceptional physical fitness/endurance levels to perform this role successfully.
  • Have strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work with students of all ages.

Benefits
As a Fred Astaire Certified Dance instructor, you can expect us to provide you:
  • A high energy-fun filled work environment!
  • A variety of activities to participate in and offer students such as group and private lessons, performances, parties and competitions.
  • The best initial and ongoing professional dance training in the country.
  • A robust and well-established dance curriculum and program to teach the students.
  • Access to top-level national dance coaches to help further your dance skills.
  • Expert training programs to develop both your dance and business skills.
  • Professional advancement at all management levels including studio ownership!
  • Opportunities to compete and earn championship titles and prize money in both Pro and Pro-Am categories.
  • Beautiful venues to perform with another professional and with your students.
  • Travel opportunities.

Our compensation plan includes multiple components:
  • Salary commensurate with experience
  • Multiple opportunities to earn bonuses.
  • Competition winnings
  • Benefits including: PTO/Vacation, Continuing Education, Health and Wellness Benefits

Apply