Instructor - Youth Dance and Gymnastics

General Information

The City of Ames Parks and Recreation Department has an exciting opportunity for Youth Dance and Gymnastics Instructors! Candidates interested in this opportunity can expect to work typically Monday - Thursday, between the hours of 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM depending on classes, flexible 8-20 hours per week, June - July 2026. Youth Instructors are directly accountable to the Recreation Manager and adjunctly accountable to the Recreation Superintendent and the Director of Parks & Recreation. This posting is open until filled.

Examples Of Essential Job Functions

• Instruct youth on the basic fundamentals of the activity
• Enforce all procedures and rules in place for all youth at all facilities/locations
• Inspect environment to ensure the safety of the children
• Teach good sportsmanship at all times

Qualifications

• Previous experience is preferred
• Knowledge of the activity
• Skill in being organized, dependable, and reliable
• Ability to teach basic fundamentals to youth of various ages
• Ability to communicate with parents and youth
• Ability to understand, appreciate and embody the City of Ames Core Values
• Ability to maintain an exceptional level of safety
• Ability to maintain a professional appearance (staff shirt w/ appropriate athletic shorts or pants) at all times while on site
• Ability to maintain a professional demeanor (calm and courteous) at all times while on site

Supplemental Information

• Frequently exposed to various weather conditions for outdoor activities, including cold, heat, rain and wind
• Need to remain alert and attentive for extended periods of time
• May be exposed to outdoor allergens, insects, slippery surfaces, and potential hazards
• Must be able to walk quickly or jog in case of emergency and lift objects up to 50 lbs
• Position requires physical participation and interaction related to specific activity
• In cases of outdoor weather, may make decisions relating to safety for participants and other recreation staff

Selection Process

• An evaluation of education and experience
• Interview
• Completion of a criminal background check, which includes a sex offender registry check

Physical & Environmental Characteristics

• Frequently exposed to various weather conditions for outdoor activities, including cold, heat, rain and wind
• Need to remain alert and attentive for extended periods of time
• May be exposed to outdoor allergens, insects, slippery surfaces, and potential hazards
• Must be able to walk quickly or jog in case of emergency and lift objects up to 50 lbs
• Position requires physical participation and interaction related to specific activity
• In cases of outdoor weather, may make decisions relating to safety for participants and other recreation staff

Required Question

• What is your preferred position? Dance Instructor Gymnastics Instructor Both
• Please list any dates you will be unavailable for the Summer session. (June 9 - July 16)
• Which days of the week are you available to work? (select all that apply) Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday
• What times are you available to work each day selected above?
• How many hours would you prefer to work per week?
• What experience do you have related to this/these position(s)?
• What skills or qualities do you believe make someone a good dance/gymnastics instructor?
• What impact do you hope to make on the kids in the program?