Circus Skills Instructor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of entertainment, the emphasis on circus skills instructors has never been more profound.

As the interest in unique recreational activities grows, so does the demand for skilled instructors who can teach, nurture, and ensure the safety of aspiring circus artists.

But let’s dig deeper: What’s truly expected from a circus skills instructor?

Whether you are:

• An individual seeking to understand the nuances of this role,
• A recruitment head aiming to identify the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of circus skills instruction,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a tailor-made circus skills instructor job description template, crafted for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Circus Skills Instructor Duties and Responsibilities

Circus Skills Instructors provide training in a range of circus arts and skills.

They may work with students of all ages, from children to adults, and of all skill levels, from beginners to professionals.

Circus Skills Instructors have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Teach students a range of circus skills, such as juggling, acrobatics, aerial skills, stilt walking, tightrope walking, clowning and more
• Assess the skill level of each student and adapt training and instruction accordingly
• Plan and implement training programs and classes for students
• Ensure the safety of all students by properly instructing on the use of equipment and safe practices
• Monitor students’ progress and provide constructive feedback
• Choreograph and direct student performances and shows
• Assist with the set-up and take-down of training and performance equipment
• Stay updated with the latest trends and techniques in the circus industry
• Promote the circus arts within the community and help to recruit new students

 

Circus Skills Instructor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a fun-loving, enthusiastic Circus Skills Instructor to teach various circus skills to a diverse range of participants.

Responsibilities include planning and conducting classes, demonstrating and instructing techniques and methods, and ensuring safety of all participants.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in circus arts, excellent communication skills, and a passion for teaching.

They should be able to design engaging lessons that meet the needs of both beginners and advanced students.

 

Responsibilities

• Design and implement a curriculum that is age-appropriate and caters to the skill level of the participants
• Teach a variety of circus skills including juggling, acrobatics, aerial skills, and clowning
• Provide clear instructions and demonstrations to participants
• Ensure the safety of all participants at all times
• Monitor and assess the progress of students and provide constructive feedback
• Manage and maintain circus equipment
• Communicate effectively with parents, caregivers, and other staff members
• Assist with performances and other events

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Circus Skills Instructor or similar role
• Knowledge of a variety of circus skills and techniques
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong problem-solving and conflict resolution skills
• First aid and CPR certification
• Experience working with a diverse range of ages and skill levels
• High level of physical fitness and stamina

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Free access to circus equipment and classes

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Circus Skills Instructor
• Work Environment: Indoor and outdoor circus facilities. Some weekend and evening hours may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Circus Program Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: Varies depending on experience.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Circus Skills Instructor Do?

Circus Skills Instructors typically work for circus schools, community centers, or as self-employed individuals offering private lessons or workshops.

They teach a wide range of circus skills to students, from beginners to advanced performers.

These skills can include juggling, acrobatics, aerial silks, trapeze, stilt walking, clowning, tightrope walking, and more.

Their job involves careful planning and structuring of lessons to ensure the safety of the students while providing engaging and challenging activities.

They need to demonstrate, explain and oversee the practice of each skill, ensuring that students understand the techniques, safety requirements, and performance aspects.

Circus Skills Instructors also need to provide appropriate feedback to students, helping them to improve their technique and build confidence in their abilities.

They also monitor the progress of each student, adjusting lesson plans as needed to cater to individual needs.

In addition, many Circus Skills Instructors may also be involved in creating and choreographing circus performances or shows, often working closely with other instructors and performers to coordinate routines and ensure a smooth performance.

They may also be responsible for maintaining and inspecting equipment to ensure safety standards are met.

 

Circus Skills Instructor Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Circus Skills Instructor should possess the necessary qualifications and skills that are essential for the role, such as:

• Extensive knowledge and experience in various circus skills including juggling, aerial acrobatics, tightrope walking, and clowning.
• Ability to instruct and demonstrate circus techniques effectively to individuals of different ages and skill levels.
• Strong communication skills to clearly explain techniques, provide constructive feedback and ensure safety instructions are understood.
• Interpersonal skills to build a rapport with students, inspire confidence and foster a positive learning environment.
• Flexibility and physical fitness to demonstrate circus techniques and ensure proper execution of complex movements.
• Problem-solving skills to adapt teaching methods to individual student needs and resolve any issues that arise during training sessions.
• Safety-conscious and first aid skills to handle accidents or injuries that may occur during training.
• Patience and motivational skills to encourage students and foster an environment of growth and learning.
• Organizational skills to manage class schedules, plan lessons and monitor student progress effectively.

 

Circus Skills Instructor Experience Requirements

Circus Skills Instructors generally have several years of experience performing circus arts before they transition into teaching.

This experience can be gained through professional circus performance or through extensive personal practice in disciplines such as juggling, tightrope walking, acrobatics, or clowning.

Many Circus Skills Instructors have attended circus arts schools, where they learn not only the craft of their chosen discipline, but also the safety procedures and teaching techniques needed to effectively instruct others.

Potential instructors with less than 2 years of experience may start their careers as assistants or apprentices under a more experienced instructor, gradually taking on more responsibility as their skills and confidence grow.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience may have demonstrated their proficiency in multiple circus disciplines and can be trusted to teach a wider range of skills.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are often well-versed in all aspects of circus arts and may be ready for leadership roles in a circus school or troupe.

They may also have experience in choreographing performances or creating original acts, which can be beneficial in a teaching role.

 

Circus Skills Instructor Education and Training Requirements

A Circus Skills Instructor typically holds a high school diploma or equivalent.

However, a degree in performing arts, physical education, or a similar field can be advantageous.

The primary requirement is extensive experience and proficiency in a variety of circus skills such as acrobatics, juggling, aerial silks, trapeze, tightrope walking, and others.

Many circus skills instructors gain experience by being a performer themselves, or through an apprenticeship under experienced circus professionals.

Some institutions offer formal circus arts training programs, which can lead to a diploma or certificate in circus arts.

These programs often include rigorous training in physical fitness, performance skills, and safety procedures.

It is also important for a Circus Skills Instructor to have a first aid and CPR certification, as safety is a paramount concern in this profession.

Some instructors may choose to specialize in certain skills and may seek additional training and certification in these areas.

Strong communication and teaching skills are also essential for this role.

Therefore, workshops or courses in teaching and coaching could be beneficial.

Finally, a Circus Skills Instructor should have a strong commitment to continuous learning and skill development, as the art of circus performance is always evolving.

 

Circus Skills Instructor Salary Expectations

A Circus Skills Instructor can expect to earn an average salary of $40,000 (USD) per year.

However, this can greatly vary depending on the level of expertise, experience, location, and the organization they are working for.

Some highly experienced instructors working in top-tier circuses may earn significantly more.

 

Circus Skills Instructor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Circus Skills Instructor need?

A Circus Skills Instructor should ideally have a background in performance arts and a proficiency in a variety of circus skills such as juggling, acrobatics, aerial arts, and clowning.

They should possess excellent communication and teaching skills to effectively impart complex techniques and safety procedures.

Physical fitness, creativity, and patience are also vital.

 

Do Circus Skills Instructors need a degree?

While a degree is not strictly required, a background in performing arts, physical education, or a related field can be beneficial.

There are also specialist circus schools that offer professional qualifications.

Most importantly, an instructor should have a solid foundation in various circus skills and experience in teaching or coaching.

 

What should you look for in a Circus Skills Instructor resume?

Look for a background in performance arts, physical education, or a similar field.

Experience in teaching or coaching, especially with children or beginners, can be a strong asset.

A resume should also highlight a range of circus skills and any notable performances or achievements.

Certification in First Aid and CPR is a plus, considering the physical nature of the job.

 

What qualities make a good Circus Skills Instructor?

A good Circus Skills Instructor should be patient, enthusiastic, and able to inspire and motivate students.

They should have excellent communication skills, the ability to adapt teaching methods to suit different learners, and a strong understanding of safety procedures.

They should also have a passion for circus arts and a commitment to ongoing learning and skills development.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Circus Skills Instructor?

Hiring a Circus Skills Instructor can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the role.

It requires a unique blend of physical skill, teaching ability, and safety consciousness.

However, by offering competitive salaries, a supportive work environment, and opportunities for professional development, you can attract quality candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve demystified the role and responsibilities of a Circus Skills Instructor.

Surprised?

It’s not all about juggling and acrobatics.

It’s about sharing the magic of the circus, one skill at a time.

With our handy Circus Skills Instructor job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the leap.

But why stop at the tightrope?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your key to creating precise job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every circus skill mastered is a part of a larger, more dazzling performance.

Let’s create that spectacle. Together.

How to Become a Circus Skills Instructor (Complete Guide)

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