Theatre Instructor

Job Details: The ideal candidate will have 3–6 years of teaching experience and/or experience in the performing arts. We are seeking someone who is passionate about working with early childhood and school-aged students, and who is also comfortable teaching up to the adult level. Current openings include teaching a performance-based class on Sunday afternoons, starting in January 2027. The class will run 1:30-3:30pm. There will be opportunities to take on more classes as the department expands. 

Summary: The Theater Instructor is responsible for duties related to Theater classes including communication with supervisor and Park District staff, instructing students, choreographing Theater combinations, taking attendance, and controlling the music source. The Theater Instructor should be passionate about building relationships with students and will be responsible for teaching a dynamic group of students a range of diverse techniques.

Supervisory Responsibilities: Supervises students enrolled in assigned classes.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Include but not limited to the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• Teach a variety of Theater classes for various ages 18 months through adult.
• Observe students to determine physical and artistic qualifications and limitations and plans programs to meet students’ needs and aspirations.
• Explain and demonstrate techniques and methods of regulating movements of body to musical or rhythmic accompaniment.
• Motivate and inspire students to achieve their goals in their chosen area of Theater.
• Evaluate student performance and make recommendations for improvement.
• Enforce a fun and creative environment.
• Keep up to date disciplinary actions and implement any changes to Theater routines and curriculum as needed.
• Maintain emergency forms and dispense District-approved required medication if necessary.
• Take accurate attendance for each class each session.
• Work with the Recreation Supervisor to expand the youth and adult Theater program.
• Assist with the recruitment of professional Theater instructors.
• Attend meetings with Theater staff on a regular basis to coordinate class curriculum.
• Work with the Theater Coordinator to order costumes and supplies for classes and recital.
• Attend all rehearsals and performances as scheduled.
•  Keep supplies and storage area neat and organized.
• Follow emergency procedures as outlined in the facility Emergency Action Plan (EAP).
• Follow and implement PDHP behavior and performance management policies.
• Implement and document behavior and performance management plans within Park District guidelines.
• Provide direction to Teacher’s Aide and/or North Suburban Special Recreation Aide.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education and/or Experience: BA/BFA in Theater and/or Musical Theatre is preferred, however not required; or associate degree (A.A.) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school; or minimum two years of related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Ability to teach a variety of Theater styles and methodologies from beginner to advanced is strongly desired. Previous teaching experience is required. Energetic, driven, creative and dependable professional with demonstrated leadership skills is a plus. Stellar classroom management and excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:

• American Red Cross CPR/AED Certification preferred
• Related field certification
• Other relevant training courses

Wage Range: $25.51-$45.00 per hour; candidates with 3-6 years of experience may be offered up to $30.00/hour, Candidates with 6+ years may be offered up to $45/hour.

Classification: Part-time, non-exempt

Physical Requirements: The physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl and talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand, walk and sit. The employee is occasionally required to use hands to finger, handle or feel; climb or balance and taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision and depth perception.

Working Conditions: While performing the duties of this job may be exposed to outside weather conditions with some slightly disagreeable conditions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Benefits:
•    Health & Fitness Membership at a discounted rate.
•    Outdoor Pool Membership and Seasonal Beach Access.
•    Program and Facility Discounts on a variety of recreational activities including Golf and Raquet Sports.

The Park District of Highland Park is an equal opportunity employer.