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Professional Ballet Dancer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Alma Dance School

Front Desk Assistant

Glen Ellyn, IL · On-site

Company Description Alma Dance School is a professional ballet training facility for young talents interested in building a strong foundation in ballet and pursuing a career in dance. Alma Dance ...

Alma Dance School

Front Desk Assistant

Glen Ellyn, IL · On-site

Company Description Alma Dance School is a professional ballet training facility for young talents interested in building a strong foundation in ballet and pursuing a career in dance. Alma Dance ...

Tutu School

Children's Ballet Teacher

Boulder, CO · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Opportunities for professional development and advancement * The chance to make a meaningful impact ... We require our teachers to have a strong background in dance, great communication skills, and a ...

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Professional Ballet Dancer information

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$23

$46

How much do professional ballet dancer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional ballet dancer in the United States is $23.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $38.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by professional ballet dancers during a performance season?

Professional ballet dancers often encounter challenges such as managing physical fatigue and preventing injuries due to demanding rehearsal and performance schedules. Balancing multiple roles, adapting to different choreographers' styles, and maintaining peak physical condition throughout the season can also be demanding. Additionally, dancers must collaborate closely with other company members and artistic staff to ensure cohesive performances, which requires strong communication and teamwork skills.

Is 5'7" tall for a ballerina?

Professional ballet dancers often range in height, with many successful ballerinas being around 5'7"; height can vary depending on the company's aesthetic and the dancer's role. While shorter stature is sometimes preferred for certain roles, height is less restrictive than in other dance forms, and skills, technique, and artistry are more important for a ballet career.

What is the difference between Professional Ballet Dancer vs Ballet Instructor?

AspectProfessional Ballet DancerBallet Instructor
CredentialsDance degrees, professional training, auditionsDance experience, teaching certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentStage performances, touring, rehearsalsDance studios, classrooms, workshops
Employer & Industry UsageDance companies, theaters, touring companiesDance schools, academies, community centers

While both roles require a strong dance background, a Professional Ballet Dancer primarily performs on stage, showcasing their skills in productions. In contrast, a Ballet Instructor focuses on teaching and training students, often working in educational settings. Both careers demand dedication to ballet, but their daily activities and career paths differ significantly.

What are professional ballet dancers?

Professional ballet dancers are highly trained performers who specialize in the art of ballet, a classical form of dance characterized by grace, precision, and formalized movements. They often work with ballet companies, performing in productions such as 'Swan Lake' or 'The Nutcracker.' Their daily routine includes rigorous practice, rehearsals, and performances, as well as maintaining their physical fitness. Ballet dancers typically start training at a young age and dedicate many years to perfecting their technique and artistry. Their careers often involve traveling, auditions, and continual learning to maintain peak performance.

How can I become a professional ballet dancer?

To become a professional ballet dancer, individuals typically start training at a young age through rigorous ballet classes and attend a reputable ballet school or conservatory. Developing strong technique, flexibility, and performance skills is essential, often followed by auditioning for companies or dance ensembles to gain professional experience.

How much do pro ballet dancers get paid?

Professional ballet dancers' salaries vary widely depending on the company, location, and experience, but they typically earn between $20,000 and $100,000 annually. Top-tier dancers in major companies can earn higher salaries, often supplemented by performance bonuses and teaching opportunities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Professional Ballet Dancer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Professional Ballet Dancer, you need advanced technical ballet training, physical strength, and a deep understanding of dance theory, typically gained through years of formal education at a recognized dance school. Proficiency with stage production systems, rehearsal software, and familiarity with various choreography styles is often required. Exceptional discipline, resilience, teamwork, and the ability to communicate emotion through movement are crucial soft skills. These abilities enable dancers to deliver compelling performances, handle the physical demands of the profession, and collaborate effectively within a company.

What are common career paths for professional ballet dancers?

Professional ballet dancers often pursue careers as soloists, principal dancers, or company members within ballet companies. After retiring from performing, many transition into teaching, choreography, or artistic direction, leveraging their performance experience and knowledge of dance techniques.
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Professional Ballet Dancer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Professional Ballet Dancer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,962 per year, or $23.1 per hour.
School Accompanist - SE Campus

School Accompanist - SE Campus

The Washington Ballet

Washington, DC

$40 - $45/hr

Part-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Department:  SE Campus

Position Title:  School Accompanist

Reports to:        Artistic Administrator, SE Campus

Classification:    Part-time, Seasonal

Hourly Wage Range: $40-$45

Location:         1901 Mississippi Ave SE, Washington, DC 20020

Scope:

The School Accompanist is a member of the music team responsible for providing live piano accompaniment for ballet and related dance classes, including classical ballet, pointe, pas de deux, variations, and character. The accompanist collaborates closely with faculty to provide music that supports technical instruction, artistry, and musicality for students of varying ages and levels. The successful candidate demonstrates excellent sight-reading, improvisation, and a broad classical repertoire while adapting to a variety of teaching styles.

General Responsibilities:

  • Accompany ballet classes for students in Pre-Ballet through Upper Division, Trainee, and Adult Programs as assigned.
  • Collaborate with faculty to provide music appropriate to the technical and artistic objectives of each class.
  • Adjust tempo, dynamics, phrasing, and musical selections to meet instructional needs.
  • Improvise when appropriate to support combinations and classroom instruction.
  • Arrive prepared and on time for assigned classes and rehearsals.
  • Maintain professional communication with faculty, supervisors, and staff.
  • Attend accompanist meetings or training sessions as requested.

Internal Contacts:

School Director, Managing Director, Artistic Administrator, Faculty, other front-facing staff

Qualifications - Education and Experience

Professional experience accompanying ballet classes or rehearsals in a professional ballet company, conservatory, or dance school preferred.

Professional and Technical Competencies:

  • Strong piano performance skills, including sight-reading and improvisation.
  • Broad knowledge of classical music repertoire appropriate for ballet training.
  • Understanding of ballet class structure, terminology, musical phrasing, and tempo.
  • Ability to observe dancers while playing and respond quickly to instructional cues.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with faculty possessing a variety of teaching styles.
  • Strong organizational and time-management skills.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
  • Flexible, dependable, and able to adapt to changing classroom needs.
  • Supports the mission, values, and educational philosophy of The Washington Ballet and The Washington School of Ballet.

Knowledge of:

  • Piano performance
  • Classical music repertoire
  • Music theory and improvisation
  • Ballet terminology and class structure

Equipment Knowledge and Use:

  • PC and software
  • Standard office equipment

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to sit and play piano for extended periods.
  • Ability to lift or move music books and materials up to 25 pounds.
  • Ability to move between studios throughout the workday.
  • Ability to work evenings and weekends as assigned.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Washington Ballet is dedicated to fostering a welcoming environment in all aspects of its work, from artistic performances and ballet education to community engagement and workplace culture. We prioritize presenting artists and perspectives that reflect the dynamism of DC. Through our community partnerships and campus locations, we intentionally bring opportunities to communities throughout the DMV, ensuring fairness in hiring and employment practices.

Benefits

  • Paid Sick Leave
  • Free adult drop-in dance classes
  • Comp and discount tickets to TWB shows

Application Instructions

Please submit your resume, cover letter, and three references. We encourage all interested applicants to apply even if they do not feel they meet 100% of the qualifications. We are dedicated to considering a wide array of candidates including those with non-traditional background and experience in the performing arts. Please use your cover letter to elaborate on what you hope to bring to this role and how your prior experience has prepared you for this opportunity.

About The Washington Ballet

Founded more than 80 years ago, The Washington Ballet grew out of the success of The Washington School of Ballet, founded and directed for years by legendary dance pioneer Mary Day. Today, The Washington Ballet's mission is threefold: To bring the joy and artistry of dance to the nation's capital and the world's stage through the professional presentation of the best in classic and contemporary ballet; to provide the highest caliber of dance training through a preeminent school of ballet; and to serve and involve the entire community through extensive dance education and community engagement programs.

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