Dance Instructor

Job Summary
The Dance Instructor is responsible for duties related to dance classes including communication with supervisor and Park District staff, instructing students, choreographing dance combinations, taking attendance, controlling the music source, demonstrating dance combinations, and creating routines for performance for recital level classes. The Dance Instructor should be passionate about building relationships with students and be responsible for teaching a dynamic group of students a range of diverse techniques. 

Job Details

The ideal candidate will have 3–6 years of teaching experience and/or experience with a dance company or team, along with one area of specialty in either jazz, tap, hip hop or ballet. We are seeking someone who is passionate about working with early childhood and school-aged students, and who is also comfortable teaching up to the adult level. Current openings include teaching adult tap classes on Wednesday evenings, with opportunities to expand hours through youth class instruction. Additional openings available starting in the summer & fall of 2026.

Supervisory Responsibilities
Supervises students enrolled in assigned dance classes. 

Essential Job Duties
Include, but not limited to the following. Other duties may be assigned. 

•    Program instruction: Teach a variety of dance classes for various ages 18 months through adult. 
•    Observe students to determine physical and artistic qualifications and limitations and plans programs to meet students’ needs and aspirations. 
•    Explain and demonstrate techniques and methods of regulating movements of body to musical or rhythmic accompaniment. 
•    Motivate and inspire students to achieve their goals in their chosen area of dance.
•    Evaluate student performance and make recommendations for improvement. 
•    Enforce a fun and creative environment. 
•    Keep up to date disciplinary actions and implement any changes to dance routines and curriculum as needed. 
•    Take accurate attendance for each class each session.
•    Work with the Recreation Supervisor and Dance Coordinator to expand youth and adult dance program. 
•    Assist with the recruitment of professional dance instructors. 
•    Attend meetings with dance staff on a regular basis to coordinate class curriculum. 
•    Work with the Dance Coordinator to order costumes and supplies for classes and recital. 
•    Attend all rehearsals and performances as scheduled.
•    Keep supplies and storage area neat and organized. 
•    Provide positive and professional communication with customers. 
•    Report any problems, unsafe conditions, behavior issues and accidents to the Recreation Supervisor.
•    Follow emergency procedures as outlined in the facility Emergency Action Plan (EAP).
•    Follow and implement PDHP behavior and performance management policies.
•    Implement and document behavior and performance management plans within Park District guidelines.
•    Provide direction to Teacher’s Aide and/or North Suburban Special Recreation Aide.
•    Perform other duties as assigned. 

Education and/or Experience: Bachelor's in Dance, Musical Theatre, or Education with dance experience is preferred, however not required; or associate degree (A.A.) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school; or minimum two years of related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Ability to teach a variety of dance styles and methodologies from beginner to advanced is strongly desired. Previous teaching experience is required. Energetic, driven, creative and dependable professional with demonstrated leadership skills is a plus. Stellar classroom management and excellent communication and interpersonal skills. 

Required Skills/Abilities:
•Classroom management
•Strong communication skills and interpersonal skills.
•Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as needed.
•American Red Cross CPR/AED certification or ability to obtain.
•Related field certification or relevant training.

Wage Range: $25.51-$45.00 per hour; candidates with 3-6 years of experience may be offered up to $30.00/hour, Candidates with 6 years may be offered up to $45/hour.

Classification: Part-time, Non-exempt

Physical Requirements:  The physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms and talk or hear. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move more than 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

Working Conditions: While performing the duties of this job may be exposed to outside weather conditions with some
slightly disagreeable conditions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Benefits: 
•    Health & Fitness Membership
•    Outdoor Pool Membership and Seasonal Beach Access
•    Program and Facility Discounts on a variety of recreational activities including Golf and Raquet Sports.

The Park District of Highland Park is an equal opportunity employer.

Salary : $26 - $45