Job Purpose:
The Assistant Dance Instructor provides education and expertise in the specific area of dance and/or any other performing art. They help facilitate and assist the instructor in whatever capacity they need, which may include stepping in and leading the class for short periods of time. A high priority is placed on communication, organization, and risk management with this position.

Essential Functions:

• Provide an education to students, classes vary between 1-24 weeks long, that meet once a week.
• Guide and develop participants individual talents through technique and artistry.
• Participate in maintaining cleanliness of facility and supplies as well as properly storing and organizing equipment/materials on site.
• Monitor and maintain the safety of all participants.
• Communicate with parents/guardians about daily activities and student progress when needed.
• Set and enforce rules and expectations.
• Understand, communicate, and enforce Park District rules and policies to participants and the public.
• Attend all staff meetings and training programs as specified.
• Be knowledgeable of detailed lesson plans and calendars that include a variety of age appropriate activities to keep participants active, excited, safe, and engaged.
• Address any participant behavior/disciplinary issues with the Program Supervisor / Coordinator.
• Provide excellent customer service and maintain a positive public image by addressing questions and concerns from staff, patrons, participants, and parents immediately.
• Become familiar with participants; know their names, personalities, skills and interests.
• Identify and observe equipment daily for possible maintenance needs and adjustments; report maintenance needs to Supervisor / Coordinator.
• Complete all paperwork as required including, but not limited to reports and logs.
  

Knowledge, Skills, and Work Experience Required:

• Certification in advanced Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), First Aid and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) within 1 month of employment and keep certification current. The District provides this training.
• Must obtain Mandated Reporter Certification.
• Must be at least 16 years of age.
• Must be organized, responsible, professional, and able to proactively communicate.
• Must have the ability to solve problems as they arise and be able to perform tasks without direct supervision.
• Must possess basic knowledge of a variety of age appropriate activities or skills applicable to assignment.
• Must be highly motivated and able to assume a positive and active role in programming, even while working under potentially stressful conditions (hot or cold weather, upset or injured participants, etc.)
• Must have the ability to be firm with participants when necessary, enforce park district rules, and make sound decisions in order to secure the safety and well-being of all campers, facilities, and equipment.
  

Recommended:

• 2 years of dance experience.
• Experience working with youth, especially in a recreation, visual arts or performing arts setting, preferred.

Work Environment, Physical Demands and Considerations:

• Frequent walking, running, standing, reaching, bending.
• Must be able to lift up to 35 lbs.
• Majority of work is in the studio.
• May be exposed to occasional inclement weather including heat, humidity, and rain.
• Ability to understand and carry out verbal and/or written instructions efficiently and effectively and to read and understand printed material.
• Ability to operate assigned equipment.
• Ability to effectively interact and communicate well with others.
• Ability to follow safety guidelines and exercise judgment in all aspects of responsibility.
• Ability to resolve conflict safely, calmly and effectively.

Hours:
Monday - Sunday programming; hours vary depending on program assignment (Approximately 1-10 hours per week depending on enrollment.)

Customers:
Internal: Employees of Park District
External: Patrons of Park District of Oak Park; residents of Oak Park, WSSRA, Partner Organizations including governmental and non-profit groups, and the Oak Park Business Community

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, functions or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, functions, activities or responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice.

The Park District is an Equal Opportunity Employer!