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Winter Guard Instructor Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Winter Guard Instructor information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a winter guard instructor?

To thrive as a Winter Guard Instructor, you need a strong background in dance, choreography, and equipment handling, often supported by experience in performance and instruction. Familiarity with music editing software, drill design programs, and safety protocols is typically required. Leadership, creativity, and effective communication are vital soft skills for motivating students and fostering teamwork. These skills and qualities are crucial for developing engaging routines, ensuring safety, and achieving high performance standards in competitive environments.

What are some common challenges winter guard instructors face when leading a team, and how can they be addressed?

Winter Guard Instructors often encounter challenges such as managing varying skill levels among team members, maintaining motivation during long rehearsal seasons, and ensuring creative choreography aligns with competition standards. Addressing these challenges involves clear communication, setting achievable goals, and fostering a supportive team environment. Regular feedback sessions and collaboration with other staff can also help instructors adapt their approach and keep performers engaged throughout the season.

What is a winter guard instructor?

Winter Guard Instructors are professionals who teach and coach performance groups that combine dance, flag, rifle, and sabre routines set to music, typically performed indoors during the winter season. They create choreography, instruct members on technique, and help students develop skills in movement, equipment handling, and showmanship. Instructors are responsible for organizing rehearsals, selecting music and costumes, and preparing the team for competitions. Their role is crucial in fostering teamwork, discipline, and creativity among participants.

What is the difference between Winter Guard Instructor vs Marching Band Instructor?

AspectWinter Guard InstructorMarching Band Instructor
CertificationsTypically requires teaching or arts certifications, sometimes specific to color guard or danceOften requires music education or band director certifications
Work EnvironmentIndoor winter season, gymnasiums, indoor arenasOutdoor during fall and sometimes spring, stadiums, fields
Industry UsageColor guard, indoor winter guard teamsHigh school, college, or community marching bands
Common Search/ComparisonWinter Guard Instructor vs Marching Band Instructor

The main difference between a Winter Guard Instructor and a Marching Band Instructor lies in their work environment and focus. Winter Guard Instructors specialize in indoor color guard performances, often during the winter season, while Marching Band Instructors work primarily outdoors during marching season. Both roles may require related certifications and are integral to school or community music and arts programs.

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What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Winter Guard Instructor jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Winter Guard Instructor job openings:
Infographic showing various Winter Guard Instructor job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 32% Full Time, and 68% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Temporary Auxiliary (Flag) Instructor/Coach

LANE COLLEGE

Jackson, TN • On-site

Temporary

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Temporary Auxiliary (Flag) Instructor/Coach

Department: Academic Affairs
Reports To: Band Director
Employment Status: Temporary

Position Overview

The Temporary Auxiliary (Flag) Instructor/Coach provides leadership, choreography, and technical instruction for the color guard unit within the College’s marching band. This position supports the Band Director by developing students’ performance skills, designing routines, and ensuring the auxiliary team contributes visually and artistically to the marching band’s overall performance.

Key Responsibilities
  • Teach and develop flag, dance, and, when applicable, basic weapon techniques for all auxiliary members.

  • Create and teach choreography for pregame and halftime shows, parades, pep rallies, exhibitions, and special performances.

  • Establish and maintain a structured technique program designed to improve precision, timing, coordination, and visual impact.

  • Collaborate with the Band Director and visual staff to align auxiliary routines with musical selections, performance themes, and marching drill.

  • Provide mentorship, guidance, and leadership development for auxiliary captains and student leaders.

  • Manage auxiliary equipment, including flags, poles, silks, props, and uniforms.

  • Assist with equipment inventory, maintenance, storage, replacement, and ordering.

  • Maintain a positive, inclusive, structured, and disciplined rehearsal environment that supports student growth, teamwork, and confidence.

  • Attend all required rehearsals, home games, designated away games, exhibitions, parades, and special events.

  • Assist with the recruitment, development, and retention of auxiliary members throughout the academic year.

  • Promote professionalism, sportsmanship, academic responsibility, and adherence to College and band program expectations.

  • Perform other related duties as assigned by the Band Director.

Qualifications
  • Significant experience teaching and leading color guard or auxiliary units in a marching band, drum corps, or winter guard setting.

  • Strong background in choreography, dance fundamentals, and flag technique.

  • Ability to teach performers with varying skill levels, from beginners to advanced members.

  • Excellent communication, organizational, and leadership skills.

  • Ability to collaborate effectively with band staff, instructors, and student leaders.

  • Demonstrated ability to create a positive, inclusive, disciplined, and motivating learning environment.

Work Schedule

This is a seasonal, academic-year position requiring availability for the following:

  • Band camp, typically held one to two weeks before the semester begins.

  • Regular rehearsals two to four times per week.

  • All home football games and designated College or band events.

  • Occasional weekend travel for away games, exhibitions, parades, and special performances.