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Dancer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Dance Instructor

Sumner, WA · On-site

$17.13 - $22.19/hr

As a Dance Instructor, you will provide leadership, instruction, and motivation for dance program participants while delivering a quality experience to students and parents. Key Responsibilities:

Dance Instructor

Puyallup, WA · On-site

$17.13 - $18.63/hr

Dance Instructor Wage: $17.13 to $18.63 per hour (Compensation is determined based on relevant experience, skills, and qualifications, with most new hires starting between the minimum and midpoint of ...

Dance Instructor

Bremerton, WA · On-site

$17.13 - $22.19/hr

As a Dance Instructor, you will provide leadership, instruction, and motivation for dance program participants while delivering a quality experience to students and parents. Key Responsibilities:

Dance Instructor

Kent, WA · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

Dance Instructor - Hip Hop/Drill/Jazz etc. (Kent Parks & Recreation, Kent Commons) Part-time, 14 hrs. per week or less Hourly Pay: $21.00 - 24.00 Location: Kent Commons Community Center ...

Dance Instructor -Hip Hop/Drill/Jazz etc.(Kent Parks & Recreation, Kent Commons) Part-time, 14 hrs. per week or less Hourly Pay: $21.00 -24.00 Location: Kent Commons Community Center Qualifications:

DANCE This Internship provides work within the rehearsal and performance process of a major Seattle Theatre Group program. Interns will be apart of every aspect of the production from start to finish ...

DANCE This Intern

Seattle, WA · On-site

$22/hr

DANCE This Internship provides work within the rehearsal and performance process of a major Seattle Theatre Group program. Interns will be apart of every aspect of the production from start to finish ...

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Dancer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$16

$18

$21

How much do dancer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for dancer in Seattle, WA is $18.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.50 and $19.13 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Dancer jobs in Seattle, WA? The most popular types of Dancer jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Dancer jobs in Seattle, WA? For Dancer jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Dancer jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Dancer jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Dancer jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Dancer job openings:
Infographic showing various Dancer job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 26% Full Time, 61% Part Time, and 13% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,197 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

$17.13 - $18.63/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Position: Dance Instructor

Wage:$17.13 to $18.63 per hour (Compensation is determined based on relevant experience, skills, and qualifications, with most new hires starting between the minimum and midpoint of the posted wage range)
Hours:Part-Time, Up to 25 hours per week
Location:Mel Korum Family YMCA, Puyallup, WA
As a Dance Instructor, you'll lead energetic and engaging classes that help students build confidence, technique, and a love for dance. You'll teach and demonstrate choreography and motivate dancers of all skill levels to grow and express themselves. If hired, you will create a positive, organized, and safe class environment while communicating with parents and celebrating student progress, you'll help deliver a memorable and inspiring dance experience for everyone involved.
Qualifications:
  • Minimum of 16 years of age or older.
  • 5+ years of formal dance training or comparable experience (preferred).
  • 1-2 years of experience as a Dance teacher and/or teaching assistant (preferred).
  • Positive attitude and previous experience with varying ages and diverse populations.
  • Possess the knowledge and skills to teach preschool and beginning-level dance classes. Multiple disciplines preferred.
  • Ability to create engaging lesson plans that reflect appropriate level, ability, classroom management, and the YMCA dance curricula.
  • Performance and dance production experience preferred.
  • Must be able to pass Background and Reference checks (in accordance with the WA State Fair Chance Act).
  • Committed to valuing and promoting diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.
  • Able and willing to complete online Child Abuse Prevention training on first day, and other online and in-person training as required.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead dance technique classes and demonstrate positive dance principles.
  • Create class lesson plans with a natural progression that relates to the abilities and ages of the classes being taught, reflecting YMCA dance curricula and core values.
  • Choreograph and contribute to annual dance recitals, dance performances, and other YMCA events as assigned.
  • Effectively communicate program information and student progress to the youth and/or arts director and members at each session.
  • Attend center and association dance staff training and meetings as required.
  • Assist the youth and/or arts director in reaching campaign goals by telling the Y story, making personal asks, and supporting center events.
  • Other duties as assigned.
Benefits:
All YMCA Employees receive the below benefits:
  • A Personal YMCA membership and YMCA360 virtual streaming membership
  • Flexible scheduling around school and extracurricular activities Paid Sick Leave accrued at 1.23 hours for every 40 hours worked per year
  • Employee Assistance Plan (EAP), Digital mental health counseling platform, Wellness program, and LifeMart employee discount center
  • Professional training, education, and certification opportunities
  • 20% discount on YMCA programs, childcare services and merchandise
Part-Time employees who work more than 20 hrs./week are eligible for the below voluntary benefit options:
  • HealthiestYou: by Teladoc (24/7 virtual general medical care access for non-emergency conditions)
  • Willamette Dental Plan
  • VSP Vision Plan
At the Y, we're all about empowering people, inspiring action, and strengthening the communities we call home. Join our team and support our vision of creating opportunity so all can thrive in every season of life. To apply, visit our website atwww.ymcapkc.org.
The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties is committed to diversity and inclusion throughout our organization and is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Women/Minority/Veteran/Disabled

Dance Instructor Job Description

Position Summary

Provides leadership, instruction and motivation for dance program participants. Provides a quality experience to students and parents focused on YMCA core values: honesty, respect, responsibility, and caring.

Key Responsibilities

Follow/Implement our Association Quality Standards and 9 Dimensions of Well Being into Youth Programming and Staff Development.

Participate in annual dance recitals, dance performances, Y Arts Week events and other YMCA events as assigned.

Create class lesson plans with a natural progression that relate to the abilities and ages of the classes being taught as well as reflect YMCA dance curricula and YMCA core values.

Choreograph dances for end of year performances.

Effectively communicate program information and student progress as needed.

Monitor student attendance and development in all dance classes. Report back to Arts Director frequently around class updates, staff development and member experience.

Attend branch and association dance staff trainings and meetings as required.

Lead dance technique classes to YMCA members.

Teach and demonstrate positive dance principles.

Assist with annual dance recital production, including dress rehearsals and performances.

Effectively engage and lead volunteers, including Dance Teachers in Training, to provide quality programming for participants and positive volunteer experiences.

Meet performance measurement through annual giving, major gifts, and/or endowment by telling the Y story and raising charitable dollars to fulfill our mission.

Embraces and actively promotes an inclusive and equitable work environment.

Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications, Skills and Abilities

Minimum of 16 years of age or older.

5-10 years of formal dance training or comparable experience.

3-5 years of experience as a dance teacher and/or teaching assistant.

Preferred: Experience teaching classes, beginning through advanced levels.

Positive attitude and previous experience with varying ages and diverse populations

Possess the knowledge and skills to teach classes, pre-school through adult, beginning through advanced levels. Multiple disciplines preferred.

Ability to create comprehensive lesson plans that reflect students' level and ability.

Demonstrated ability to choreograph beginning and advanced level pieces for dance recitals.

First-hand knowledge of performance and dance production.

Preferred: Knowledge of safety procedures and dance and office equipment set-up.

CPR, First Aid, AED certifications.

Complete online Child Abuse Prevention training on first day. Complete other online and in-person training as required.

Working Conditions/Physical Demands

Regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms.

Occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.

Must frequently lift or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift or move a higher amount.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

Occasionally may need to plan and participate in programming outdoors.

Ability to lead dance/various arts classes.

Employee Acknowledgement

This job description indicates the general nature and levels of work, knowledge, skills, abilities and other essential functions expected of this position. This document is not an exhaustive list and other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or assigned at any time with or without advanced notice.

This job description does not constitute a contract of employment and the YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties may exercise employment-at-will rights at any time.

By signing below, you are acknowledging that you have read the document in its entirety and that you understand the requirements, essential functions, and job duties of this position. Further, you acknowledge that you are able to perform the duties of the position with or without reasonable accommodation(s), and that should you need assistance, that you are responsible for notifying your Director, Executive Director, and/or Human Resources.