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Full Time Dance Instructor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Gym Director

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$65K - $67K/yr

A The Little Gym "Gym Director" is a full-time, career level position, responsible for the overall ... instructors have nurtured happy, confident kids through parent/child classes, gymnastics, dance and ...

Full Time Dance Instructor information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$24

$56

How much do full time dance instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time dance instructor in Virginia is $24.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.63 and $23.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time dance instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time Dance Instructor, you need a strong background in dance techniques, choreography, and teaching methods, often supported by formal dance training or a relevant degree. Familiarity with music editing software, studio sound systems, and sometimes certification from dance organizations is typically expected. Excellent communication, patience, and motivational skills help instructors connect with students and foster a positive learning environment. These competencies are essential for delivering effective instruction, ensuring student progress, and maintaining a successful dance program.

What is a full time dance instructor?

Full time dance instructors are professionals who teach dance classes as their primary occupation. They may work at dance studios, schools, community centers, or with private clients, instructing students in various dance styles such as ballet, jazz, hip-hop, or ballroom. Their responsibilities include developing lesson plans, demonstrating techniques, providing feedback, and sometimes choreographing routines for performances. Full time instructors typically work a set number of hours per week and may teach students of all ages and skill levels.

What are some common challenges faced by full time dance instructors and how can they be managed?

Full-time dance instructors often face challenges such as balancing class preparation with teaching hours, preventing physical burnout, and adapting to diverse skill levels within a single class. Managing these challenges usually involves effective time management, ongoing professional development, and open communication with students and colleagues. Building a supportive network within the dance studio and prioritizing self-care can help instructors maintain both their teaching quality and personal well-being.

What is the difference between Full Time Dance Instructor vs Part Time Dance Instructor?

AspectFull Time Dance InstructorPart Time Dance Instructor
Work HoursTypically 35-40 hours per weekFewer hours, often less than 20 hours per week
CertificationsUsually requires dance certifications and teaching credentialsMay require similar certifications but less emphasis on full-time credentials
Work EnvironmentDance studios, schools, gyms, community centersSimilar environments, often with flexible scheduling
Employment TypeFull-time employment with benefitsPart-time, often contract or hourly-based

Full Time Dance Instructors work regular hours with benefits and a stable schedule, while Part Time Dance Instructors have flexible hours with fewer benefits. Both roles require dance certifications and involve teaching in similar environments, but the commitment level and employment structure differ.

What are the most commonly searched types of Dance Instructor jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Dance Instructor jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Full Time Dance Instructor job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,468 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

Exercise and Aquatic Specialist

Westminster-Canterbury on Chesapeake Bay

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

$20.10 - $23.62/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Westminster-Canterbury on Chesapeake Bay rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Location: 3100 Shore Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Reports to: Aquatic and Fitness Coordinator
FLSA: Non-Exempt, Hourly
Schedule: FULL-TIME; Monday - Friday; 8:30am - 5:00pm
About Us
Founded in 1982, Westminster-Canterbury on Chesapeake Bay is a not-for-profit, faith-based Life Plan Community. Located along the southern shore of Chesapeake Bay, our scenic, resort-style campus is home to a vibrant community of residents and staff who share a passion for service, joy, and well-being.
Our mission? Enriching lives through the power of purpose, belonging, and wellness.
We live our values every day:
  • Respect for every person
  • Passion for what we do
  • Professionalism in all we do

Apply today and help us bring wellness, joy, and energy to the heart of our community!
The Resident Services Team at WCBay fosters meaningful relationships with our residents through supporting them with solving problems, accessing services, staying informed, and enjoying community life. No matter the task-at-hand, every action the Resident Services team takes, puts resident satisfaction & well-being at the forefront of it all.
The Exercise and Aquatic Specialist is experienced in teaching and coordinating programs for land and water based exercise, for both individuals and groups in multiple modalities. This Specialist assists the Aquatic and Fitness Coordinator with planning and implementation of comprehensive fitness programs that align with the wellness philosophy of the community.
What You'll Do In This Role
  • Lead a variety of exercise classes: cardio, strength, dance, yoga, aqua fitness, balance, and seated.
  • Design personalized training programs.
  • Teach dance-based and modified movement classes.
  • Assess and track residents' fitness levels and progress.
  • Ensure pool and fitness room safety and cleanliness.
  • Coordinate health education and wellness events.
  • Engage residents across all levels of care.
  • Promote participation and tracking engagement.
  • Support community wellness through cross-department collaboration.
  • All other duties as assigned.

Core Competencies
  • Exhibits patience, tact, enthusiasm, and a positive attitude toward residents, fostering strong relationships with team members and guests.
  • Demonstrates a collaborative mindset and maintains an optimistic, constructive approach in all interactions.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to actively lead three classes per day.
  • Tolerate warm, humid conditions in the pool area.
  • Lift a minimum of 50 pounds.
  • Thrive in a fast-paced, team environment.

The Experience You'll Bring
Required
  • Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science, Sports Medicine or Therapeutic Recreation, OR have 1+ years of experience teaching land and acquatic classes
  • Certification as an instructor/personal trainer from ACSM, NASM, NSCA, ACE, or similar
  • Current CPR certification and ability to perform lifesaving techniques
  • Familiarity with fitness equipment and safety protocols
  • Willingness to receive seasonal flu vaccine yearly (Oct - May)

Preferred
  • Experience working with the geriatric population, including those with impairments.
  • Experience with Google Suite

Compensation & Benefits
  • Compensation Range: $20.10/hour - $23.62/hour
  • Full-Time Employee (and eligible Part-Time Employee) Benefits & Perks Include:
    • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance (Available Day One!)
    • Life & Disability Insurance (Short- and Long-Term)
    • Retirement Plan with Employer Match
    • Paid Time Off (PTO) & 6 Paid Holidays (+ 2 Floating Holidays)
    • Tuition Assistance + Scholarships for You & Your Family
    • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
    • Legal/Identity Theft Protection Plans
    • Team Member Discounts
    • Career Growth & Leadership Development Opportunities

At-Will Employment Statement
Employment with our organization is "at-will," meaning that either the employee or the employer may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without notice, and for any reason not prohibited by law.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by applicable laws.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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