Dance Instructor (Hays Communities)

Join the Greater Austin YMCA as a Dance Instructor and inspire children ages 4-12 through creative, fun, and inclusive dance classes.

About the Role

We are looking for an enthusiastic and creative Dance Instructor with a passion for dance and a talent for engaging young learners. This role involves teaching a variety of dance styles, developing age-appropriate routines, and fostering a love for dance in a supportive environment.

Responsibilities

• Teach dance classes to children aged 4-12, improving their skills, rhythm, and coordination through creative and engaging routines.
• Develop and deliver enjoyable, educational lesson plans that enhance student engagement and progress across various skill levels.
• Inspire and motivate students to advance their dance skills and confidence while promoting positive participation and teamwork.
• Manage classroom behavior with sensitivity to maintain a respectful and productive learning atmosphere.
• Prepare students for performance opportunities or showcases to build achievement and a strong sense of community.
• Ensure a safe environment by adhering to 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.
• Represent the YMCA's mission, vision, and values in all interactions to enhance 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 team success.

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, 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: Positive, service-oriented attitude with the ability to work well with others.
• Effective communicator: Listen for understanding and meaning; speak and write clearly.
• Customer-focused: Build good customer relationships and deliver customer-centric solutions.
• Inclusive: 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 close interaction with children and managing group dynamics. Shifts may include afternoons, evenings, and weekends based on class schedules.

Physical Requirements

• Regularly stand, walk, and demonstrate dance moves during classes.
• Move freely, perform physical activities, and maintain stamina.
• Demonstrate dance routines and engage in physical movement.
• Occasionally lift or assist children as needed.
• Effectively communicate, including projecting your voice in both quiet and noisy environments.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.