WE’RE HIRING! - Become a

BACKHAUSDANCE TEACHING ARTIST

Backhausdance, Southern California’s critically-acclaimed contemporary dance company committed to cultivating creativity and fostering a love for dance, is seeking passionate and enthusiastic Teaching Artists to join our education team.

As a Teaching Artist, you will play a vital role in inspiring and educating students of all ages through weekly dance classes that emphasize artistic exploration, technique development, and creative expression.

Qualifications

  • Education: Hold a BA or BFA in Dance (or currently pursuing one of these degrees)

  • Teaching Experience: Must have prior teaching experience (2-5 yr preferred)

  • Knowledge: A knowledge of fundamental dance / education concepts

  • Curriculum Experience: Have experience or ability in implementing and following an arts-based curriculum for children in a structured learning environment.

  • Classroom Management Experience: Have experience or ability in managing a classroom effectively and adapting activities to students of multiple levels & needs.

  • Communication Skills: Demonstrate excellent written and oral communication skills in English (Bilingual/Other Languages are a benefit).

  • Collaboration Skills: Demonstrate ability to work collaboratively and effectively with a team, as well as individually.

  • Transportation: Must have a car for travel.

  • Background Check: Must be able to pass a Live Scan background check and provide negative results from a TB test.

Availability

As a Backhausdance Teaching Artist, you’ll have the chance to be a part of various dance education initiatives. Below are three unique opportunities with current open positions.

  • AFTERNOON DANCE CLASSES (2024-2025 School Year)

    • In the school year, Backhausdance teaches weekly dance classes to grades TK-2 and 3-5 as part of the Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP) in Santa Ana Unified School District. These classes emphasize artistic exploration, technique development, and creative expression.

    • Classes Run during the 2024-2025 school year. (September-May)

    • Monday - Thursday

      • Monday, Tuesday, Thursday- 2:30pm-5:00pm

      • Wednesday- 1:30pm-4:00pm

      • Must be available for weekly classes (anywhere from 1 to 4 days a week)

  • PARKS AND RECREATION COMMUNITY CLASSES (Year-Round)

    • Backhausdance collaborates with Santa Ana community centers to offer various dance classes focused on teaching different styles of dance to young children. (Ballet, Jazz, Hip Hop, etc.)

    • Classes are usually in the late afternoon on weekdays (4:30-8pm Mon-Fri) or on Saturday mornings during all seasons.

      • Schedule built around community needs and teaching artists’ availability.

  • EDUCATION TEAM MEMBER (September-May)

    • Participate in rehearsals and professional development sessions and be a part of our education endeavors in public schools around Orange County. Teach workshops, residencies, and masterclasses, and perform in assemblies for schools and students all around Southern California.

    • Must be available Monday and Wednesday mornings 8am-1pm.

    • Audition required to be considered for a performing role.

Responsibilities

  • Teaching: Implement standards-based Backhausdance curriculum to teach weekly dance & creative movement, improvisation, and dance appreciation to students while encouraging creativity and self-expression.

  • Professionalism: Maintain punctuality in all responsibilities and represent Backhausdance in a professional manner.

  • Adaptability: Adapt teaching methods to accommodate students' diverse learning styles and abilities

  • Classroom Management: Strong classroom management skills are essential

  • Team Player: Collaborate with other Teaching Artists and staff to enhance the overall educational program

  • Communication Skills: Communicate effectively and with high emotional intelligence with students, parents, and colleagues

  • Development: Attend appropriate trainings and review provided curriculum prior to beginning the role, and continue professional development throughout employment.

  • Documentation: Be accountable for paperwork as required by program administration

PAY

  • Hourly Teaching Rates: $30-45 /hr (commensurate with experience)

  • Development and Training Rates: $20-25 /hr

This is a part-time position with an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on young dancers' lives while collaborating with a dedicated team of artists and educators at Backhausdance. If you are passionate about dance education and inspiring the next generation of dancers, we encourage you to apply.

To apply, please fill out the form below. We look forward to welcoming new Teaching Artists who shares our enthusiasm for dance and education!