Community Education Dance Instructor

The University of Pikeville is seeking an energetic, versatile, and creative Dance Instructor to join the University of Pikeville School of Dance. This position teaches students ranging from beginner to advanced levels across various age groups while fostering strong technique and creating a positive, encouraging studio experience.

A strong foundational background in classical ballet is required. Additional proficiency in jazz, hip-hop, lyrical, and/or tap is highly preferred.

Responsibilities:

• Teach engaging, safe, and age-appropriate dance classes in classical ballet and one or more additional genres, including jazz, hip-hop, lyrical, and/or tap.


• Develop progressive lesson plans that align with School of Dance curriculum guidelines and accommodate students with varying skill levels.


• Create original and inspiring choreography for recitals, productions, and community events, as needed.


• Provide constructive feedback, monitor student progress, and support individual student goals in an encouraging and structured environment.


• Maintain high standards for safe dance practices, proper body mechanics, classroom discipline, and injury prevention.


• Create a positive, inclusive, and motivating classroom environment that encourages student participation and growth.


• Maintain clear and professional communication with students, parents, studio staff, and School of Dance leadership regarding student development, class expectations, and program updates.


• Assist with rehearsals, performances, recitals, productions, and other School of Dance activities, as needed.


• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience Requirements:

• Formal dance training and comprehensive knowledge of dance skills, terminology, and techniques in classical ballet.


• Training or experience in one or more additional dance genres, including jazz, hip-hop, lyrical, and/or tap, is preferred.


• A minimum of one year of experience teaching dancers of various ages and skill levels.


• Demonstrated ability to develop age-appropriate lesson plans and provide effective dance instruction.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Energetic, creative, dependable, punctual, and engaging.


• Strong classroom management and interpersonal communication skills.


• Ability to provide constructive feedback in a positive and supportive manner.


• Commitment to maintaining a safe, inclusive, and encouraging learning environment.


• Ability to work effectively with students, parents, colleagues, and School of Dance leadership.


• Willingness and ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, rehearsals, and performances, as required.

Important Notes: Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Applications received on or before 08/17/2026 will be given priority consideration.

Resume and other application materials will be reviewed to determine if you meet the required qualifications for the position. If it is determined that you meet the required qualifications, your application materials will be used to identify a top group of the most highly qualified candidates. Please, specifically address the qualifications, competencies and desired qualifications in your resume and application materials.

The University of Pikeville is committed to providing a safe and productive learning, living and working community. To achieve this goal, we conduct background investigations for all final applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial and/or motor vehicle history.

The University of Pikeville is an equal opportunity employer committed to assembling a diverse, broadly trained faculty and staff. The University of Pikeville does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age or disabilities in its programs, activities, hiring, or the admission of students.

For more information about the University of Pikeville, please visit http://www.upike.edu. In addition to the application, interested applicants are requested to attach to their application a letter of interest, current resume, and the contact information for three to five professional references.