Dance Instructor

Reports To: Recreation Supervisor
Division: Recreation Services
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Work hours vary based on availability and class size, about 10 hours/wk.

 
SUMMARY
A Dance Instructor, under the direction of the Cultural Arts Director, is responsible for planning and teaching all assigned dance classes.
 

QUALIFICATIONS
A Dance Instructor must have dance training and experience with children ages walking-18.  Teaching experience is helpful, but not required. 

• A Dance Instructor must possess enthusiasm, creativity, and the ability to communicate with people of all ages.


• This individual must be able to get participants excited about being a part of the program and choreograph dance numbers for the parent watch dates and the annual dance recital.


• A Dance Instructor should be flexible, willing to try new ideas and activities, and be motivated.


• Must also be organized and punctual.


• Demonstrate behavioral flexibility, good public relations and tactfulness.  Patience is also a character trait that is important when working with the public.


• Ability to cooperate with and interpret Park District philosophies in relation to governmental, public and private groups and agencies and the general public


• Ability to work harmoniously with fellow employees, patrons, community groups and other units of local government


• Ability to work independently day-to-day operations with general direction from immediate supervisor


• Ability to demonstrate leadership qualities to perform required work


• Ability to maintain self-control and composure in difficult situations 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Plan and carry out each assigned class to the best of their ability.


• Work with Cultural Arts Director to complete lesson plans and/or class syllabi.


• Maintain cleanliness and organization of Park District facilities.


• Communicate effectively with participants, guardians, supervisors, and the general public.


• Report any safety or health hazards immediately to the Cultural Arts Director or the Safety Specialist.


• Encourage participants/guardians to complete a Program Evaluation to ensure quality programs and instructors at the Park District.


• Act as positive role model for participants both in and out of class.


• Submit all attendance sheets and Program Evaluations to the Cultural Arts Director as sessions end.


• Attend any training sessions offered to develop relevant knowledge and skills.


• Promote Park District programs to patrons, members, guests and staff.


• Performs the job safely and in compliance with District policies, procedures, work and safety rules, and the employee policy manual.  

MARGINAL FUNCTIONS

• Maintains a clean and organized work environment


• Responds to citizen’s complaints and suggestions


• Performs other duties as assigned

 
PHYSICAL CONSIDERATIONS

• May frequently be required to walk, sit, talk and hear


• May frequently be required to use hand and/or fingers, handle feel and reach with hands and arms


• May frequently be required to climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl


• Must be able to handle average to heavy weight materials, maximum weight 50 pounds. Over 50 pounds with assistance.


• May be in awkward or difficult positions resulting in physical fatigue


• Must have specific vision abilities required for this job: close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus

PSYCHOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS
Worker must be able to work:

• Calmly in life and/or death situations


• Effectively under stress of deadlines and complaints


• Independently


• Under supervision and direction of supervisor(s)


• Cooperatively with fellow staff, participants, general public, vendors, contractors, community groups, and media in a proper manner

PHYSIOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS
Prolonged stress and pressures of the position could affect some individual’s blood pressure
 
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS
Occasionally exposed to elevated noise levels from participants, sound equipment, maintenance equipment and/or power tools. May be exposed to dust, pollens, molds, insects etc. may be present. May be exposed to varied weather conditions when classes are held in the outdoors.
 
COGNITIVE CONSIDERATIONS
Worker must be able to:

• Communicate with youth and adults of all ages


• Use basic math, reading and writing skills


• Follow step-by-step procedures and obtain end results


• Exhibit good problem-solving abilities


• Project a positive image and neat appearance to participants of the park district


• Use good safety awareness and judgment


• Follow direction from supervisor with safe and effective follow through