Dance Instructor (East Communities)

About the Role

The Greater Austin YMCA is seeking an enthusiastic and creative Dance Instructor to lead dance classes for children ages 4-12. The ideal candidate will have a passion for dance and a talent for engaging young learners in a fun, inclusive, and supportive environment.

Responsibilities

• Teach dance classes to children aged 4-12, improving their skills, rhythm, and coordination, and implementing routines that encourage creativity and enhance performance.
• Develop and deliver lesson plans that are enjoyable and educational, leading to increased student engagement and progress across various skill levels.
• Inspire and motivate students to advance their dance skills and confidence, promoting positive participation and teamwork in each class.
• Manage classroom behavior effectively, addressing issues with sensitivity to maintain a respectful and productive learning atmosphere.
• Prepare students for performance opportunities or showcases, resulting in greater achievement and a strong sense of community.
• Ensure a safe environment by adhering to all safety protocols, focusing on injury prevention, and implementing proper warm-up techniques.
• Maintain open communication with parents and guardians regarding class progress and student achievements, strengthening relationships and support.
• Represent the YMCA's mission, vision, and values in all interactions, enhancing the organization's positive image and community presence.
• Act as an ambassador for the YMCA, building strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Share compelling stories about the YMCA's work and culture to engage and inspire the community.
• Complete additional duties as assigned, demonstrating adaptability and contributing to overall team success and organizational goals.

Requirements

• Minimum of 18 years old.
• Experience working with young learners in a recreational or educational setting is beneficial.
• Strong knowledge of various dance styles and techniques, along with the ability to teach and demonstrate moves effectively.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Enthusiasm, creativity, and a genuine passion for dance and working with children.
• Ability to create a lively, engaging, and educational dance experience.
• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain upon hiring).
• Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish is a plus.

Skills

• Growth mindset: quickly learn from failure and value feedback to continuously improve.
• Team player with a positive, service-oriented attitude and ability to work well with others.
• Effective communicator: listen for understanding and meaning, and speak/write clearly.
• Customer-focused: build good customer relationships and deliver customer-centric solutions.
• Foster a culture of inclusion and belonging by leveraging people's differences as strengths.

Work Environment

The Dance Instructor position involves working in a dance studio or classroom setting, including exposure to dance equipment, music systems, and high-energy classes. The role requires comfort working closely with children and managing group dynamics. Shifts may include afternoons, evenings, and weekends based on class schedules.

Physical Requirements

• Regularly required to stand, walk, and demonstrate dance moves.
• Must be able to move freely, perform physical activities, and maintain stamina during classes.
• Ability to demonstrate dance routines, engage in physical movement, and occasionally lift or assist children as needed.
• Effective communication, including projecting one's voice in both quiet and noisy environments.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.