Dance Jobs at Summer Camps
Dance jobs at summer camps are a perfect fit for choreographers, performers, dance teachers, and university dance students who want to spend the summer sharing their passion with eager young movers. From traditional sleepaway camps offering daily dance electives to specialty dance academies running serious training programs at residential camps, dance instructors find rich teaching environments across every style — ballet, jazz, hip hop, modern, tap, contemporary, and more.
As a dance instructor at an overnight camp, you’ll teach technique, choreograph routines, support showcases, and run cross-discipline events like dance battles or themed showcases. You’ll work across age groups and skill levels, from first-time dancers to pre-professional teens. Many co-ed residential camps blend dance with theater, music, and cheer programs, giving multi-discipline instructors plenty of creative variety throughout the summer.
What does a dance instructor at summer camp do?You’ll teach technique across styles, choreograph routines, lead classes, and prepare campers for showcases. Most sleepaway camps run dance as a daily elective with end-of-session performances throughout the summer camp season.
What dance styles are most common at summer camps?Hip hop, jazz, contemporary, ballet, tap, and lyrical are widely taught at residential camps. Specialty dance camps may also offer modern, musical theater, breakdance, and partnering. Instructors who teach multiple styles are especially valued.
Do I need a degree to teach dance at sleepaway camp?A degree isn’t usually required, but professional training, teaching experience, and a strong technique base matter most. Working dancers, choreographers, and university dance majors are all great candidates at overnight camps.
What does the pay look like for dance jobs at summer camps?Pay is competitive and commensurate with experience and credentials. Sleepaway camps include room, board, and laundry alongside salary, which adds meaningful value to the overall summer camp package beyond the base figure.
Can international dancers work at summer camps?Yes — many residential camps hire international dance instructors through J-1 programs like Camp America, CCUSA, and Camp Leaders. Dancers from around the world regularly teach at co-ed sleepaway camps each summer.
Browse Summer Camp Dance Jobs for 2026
| Job Type | Setting |
|---|
| Full-Time Seasonal | Overnight Camp |
Start Date: June 1, 2026
End Date: August 31, 2026
Camp Med-o-lark is seeking Dance instructors for our one-of-a-kind arts camp for summer 2025.
Responsibilities include teaching up to 5 one-hour classes each day of approximately 10-15 campers. We typically offer Hip Hop, Modern, Ballet, Jazz, Musical Theatre, Tap, and any specialty type of dance class you wish to offer and can teach. A positive attitude and outgoing demeanor will win over our campers. Experience leading classes and/or teaching choreography is a plus. We present a dance show at the end of each session to show off your work.
Med-o-lark is a coed residential creative arts camp for ages 8-16 and specializes in visual and fine arts, performing arts, circus, music, culinary, digital media, waterfront, and more! Med-o-lark offers staff benefits including a competitive summer salary, free room and board, laundry, and ample time off. Staff have some evening responsibilities and may live in a cabin with campers. This is a summer job that can be a ton of fun, gives you the opportunity to meet others from all over the world (both counselor and camper), and allows you to teach what you love to do!
No matter what field you ultimately go into, a Med-o-lark summer will always be an asset on your resume. We’re always glad to provide letters of recommendation or reference describing the skills you’ve developed with us. As a Med-o-lark staff member, you will have a positive impact on campers’ summers. They look up to you, learn from your example, and leave camp at the end of summer with new skills and accomplishments because of your influence. It’s an enriching experience helping campers create, grow, achieve, and excel. Apply today!
