Job Description

ABOUT US : The Des Plaines Park District, established in 1919, features more than 50 parks and facilities. As an Illinois Distinguished Accredited Agency, we service a culturally diverse and growing community with hundreds of affordable recreational and educational programs, classes, and events for kids, teens, adults, and families each season. "Enriching Lives Everyday" is our vision and our constant goal.

JOB IDENTIFICATION

Job Title: Dance Instructor

Grade: N/A - Specialty Instructor

FLSA: Non-Exempt

Department: Recreation

SUPERVISORY RELATIONSHIPS

Reports to: Recreation Supervisor

Supervises: N/A

BASIC FUNCTION

Responsible for the safe instruction, development, choreography, and recreation programming for a variety of dance classes.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Create a positive, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate learning environment that builds participants’ dance skills, confidence, and appreciation for the arts while supporting the mission and values of the District.

• Plan, demonstrate, and teach dance instruction ranging from beginner to advanced levels in disciplines including, but not limited to, ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, and/or hip hop, using age-appropriate and skill-appropriate techniques.

• Develop and implement effective lesson plans aligned with the approved syllabus, program goals, and participant abilities to ensure consistent instructional quality and progression.

• Select and organize music and choreography for instructional classes and the annual recital, ensuring artistic quality, participant engagement, and alignment with program objectives.

• Continuously evaluate participant progress and performance, providing timely feedback and instruction to support individual growth and overall program success.

• Develop choreography for the annual recital and instructional classes, contributing to a high-quality culminating experience for participants, families, and the community.

• Maintain accurate program records, including attendance and participant progress, to support communication, evaluation, and program planning.

• Maintain and promote excellent customer service relationships with participants, parents/guardians, and affiliated partners through clear communication, professionalism, and responsiveness.

• Work cooperatively as a member of the Cultural Arts team, supporting a collaborative environment and contributing to the overall success of the program and department.

• Communicate matters of importance related to participants, programming, or operations to the Recreation Supervisor in a timely and professional manner.

• Attend all required pre-season in-service trainings, staff meetings, and professional development sessions, and continue education as required to maintain instructional excellence.

• Demonstrate the ability to work independently with limited supervision, anticipate program needs, and take initiative to support successful class and recital outcomes.

• Enforce facility rules and program policies consistently to ensure a safe, respectful, and well-managed environment.

• Recognize, report, and respond to unsafe conditions, hazards, or incidents, prioritizing participant safety and program integrity at all times.

• Submit required paperwork and reports, including incident reports and other documentation, accurately and in accordance with District timelines and procedures.

• Perform all job duties safely and in compliance with District policies, procedures, and risk management standards.

OTHER DUTIES

• Coordinate staff to direct patrons in the event of an emergency such as severe weather or fire.

• Follow all safety policies and procedures as outlined in the Park District Safety and Crisis Manuals.

• Perform additional duties as assigned.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS

Education: High School diploma or in progress

Experience: Must be 18 years of age or older.

In depth experience in dance.

Previous experience working with kids ages 6 – 15.

Previous teaching experience.

Certifications: CPR and First Aid Certification

PERKS & BENEFITS: PART TIME STAFF

• All recreational facilities at no charge during active employment, discounts for dependents

• A free individual outdoor pool pass to three aquatic facilities, or family pass at 50% discount

• A free annual or monthly fitness center and/or indoor aquatic center pass

• Rent meeting/party spaces at 50% discount

• No charge for general programs/pre-registration (some exclusions apply)

• Contractual classes/programs at a discounted rate

• All golf facilities at no charge including Golf Center Golf Course, Lake Park, and Mountain View Adventure Center

Des Plaines Park District is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Des Plaines Park District ensures equal employment opportunities regardless of race, creed, gender, color, national origin, religion, age, sexual orientation or disability. If you need any special accommodations, please contact our HR Coordinator, Ellie Asa, at the Park District at 847-391-5099 or email at ellie.asa@dpparks.org so that we may make the necessary arrangements for you.

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