Professional Aerialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the thrilling world of entertainment, the spotlight on professional aerialists has never been more dazzling.

As performance arts evolve, each step beckons for talented individuals who can expertly execute, evolve, and preserve our aerial artistry traditions.

But let’s unravel the mystery: What’s truly expected from a professional aerialist?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring performer seeking to understand the core of this role,
• A casting director looking for the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of aerial performance,

You’ve landed in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable professional aerialist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or casting websites.

So, let’s take flight and delve right into it.

Professional Aerialist Duties and Responsibilities

Professional Aerialists perform a range of tasks related to performing aerial acrobatics and stunts, usually in a circus, theater, or entertainment setting.

They are responsible for creating breathtaking performances, maintaining rigorous physical fitness, and ensuring safety standards are met.

A professional aerialist’s duties and responsibilities include:

• Developing and practicing aerial routines and stunts
• Performing intricate aerial maneuvers on various apparatus such as trapeze, silks, hoops and ropes
• Maintaining high levels of physical fitness, flexibility, and strength
• Ensure all equipment is set up correctly and safely before each performance
• Collaborating with other performers, directors, and choreographers to develop performances
• Adhering to strict safety protocols to prevent accidents and injuries
• Participating in workshops, rehearsals, and performances, often including travel
• Maintaining a professional demeanor and appearance at all times, both on and off stage
• Engaging with audience members in a professional and respectful manner

 

Professional Aerialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated and highly skilled Professional Aerialist to join our team.

The successful candidate will perform complex acrobatic routines at various heights, demonstrating exceptional strength, flexibility, and creativity.

Professional Aerialists responsibilities include developing unique aerial performances, maintaining physical conditioning, and ensuring safety protocols are adhered to.

Our ideal candidates have a passion for performance art, a flair for creativity, and exceptional physical ability.

Ultimately, the role of the Professional Aerialist is to deliver breathtaking performances that captivate and entertain audiences.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and rehearse unique aerial routines for performances
• Maintain peak physical condition, strength, and flexibility
• Adhere to all safety protocols and regulations during performances
• Perform complex acrobatic routines at various heights
• Work with team members to create synchronized performances
• Participate in promotional activities and events
• Ensure all equipment is in excellent working condition
• Provide assistance in stage setup and breakdown
• Interact with audiences and provide an engaging performance experience

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a professional aerialist or a similar role
• Exceptional strength, flexibility, and physical conditioning
• Experience with various aerial equipment (ropes, silks, hoops, etc.)
• Ability to work at great heights
• Strong creative abilities to develop unique performances
• Excellent teamwork skills
• Ability to adhere to strict safety protocols
• Background in gymnastics, dance, or acrobatics is an advantage

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Opportunities for creative expression and performance
• Travel opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Professional Aerialist
• Work Environment: This position often requires working at great heights, in various venues, and potentially travelling for performances. Frequent physical activity is a must.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Performance Director or Show Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $40,000 minimum to $75,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if traveling for performances)
• 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, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a video of your performance to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Professional Aerialist Do?

Professional Aerialists are performance artists who specialize in aerial acrobatics, often showcasing their skills in circuses, festivals, concerts, theaters, and other special events.

They perform acrobatic maneuvers high above the ground on equipment such as aerial silks, trapezes, hoops, straps, or poles.

These performances require strength, flexibility, creativity, and a high level of skill to execute complex routines while suspended in the air.

Aerialists create unique choreographed routines that blend dance, gymnastics, and acrobatics.

They incorporate elements such as flips, twists, and inversions into their performances, often moving in sync with music or a narrative.

In addition to performing, professional aerialists may also be responsible for maintaining their own equipment, ensuring safety measures are adhered to, and training to continually improve and develop new skills.

Many professional aerialists also offer teaching services, providing classes or workshops for those interested in learning aerial arts.

They provide instruction on technique, safety, and performance aspects of aerial acrobatics.

Aerialists often work closely with other performers, choreographers, costume designers, and directors to produce a cohesive and entertaining performance.

They may also need to adjust their performance routines based on the venue or audience.

 

Professional Aerialist Qualifications and Skills

A professional aerialist should possess a unique blend of physical strength, creativity, and discipline.

The qualifications and skills for a professional aerialist include:

• Exceptional physical strength and flexibility, as aerial routines often require complex, strenuous maneuvers
• Discipline and dedication to maintain a rigorous training regimen
• Ability to perform under pressure during live performances or competitions
• Strong understanding of safety procedures and risk management, to prevent injuries
• Excellent balance and spatial awareness, to execute movements at high altitudes
• Creative skills to choreograph unique and captivating aerial routines
• Interpersonal and communication skills to work effectively with other performers, choreographers, and instructors
• Resilience and determination, as the field is highly competitive and physically demanding
• Possession of a performer’s certificate or equivalent from a recognized institution, verifying training in aerial performance

 

Professional Aerialist Experience Requirements

Aspiring professional aerialists generally need extensive training in acrobatics and aerial arts, typically gained over several years.

This training can be acquired through courses at a circus school, workshops, or private instruction.

Aerialists often start with foundational training in gymnastics, dance, or other forms of movement to develop strength, flexibility, and body awareness.

They then advance to training on specific aerial apparatuses such as the trapeze, aerial silks, hoop, and rope.

Many aerialists begin their careers performing in amateur shows or at local events to gain performance experience, often while still in training.

Aerialists with 3 to 5 years of performance experience can typically audition for more prestigious or demanding roles, such as those in professional circus companies or productions.

Those with more than 5 years of performance experience, particularly in leading roles or in high-profile productions, may have the qualifications to work as aerial choreographers, instructors, or even start their own aerial arts companies.

Note that the field of aerial arts is physically demanding and inherently risky, so professional aerialists must also have experience and training in safety procedures and injury prevention.

 

Professional Aerialist Education and Training Requirements

Becoming a Professional Aerialist requires extensive physical training and practice rather than formal education.

However, many professional aerialists have a background in dance, gymnastics, or other related physical disciplines.

Training as a professional aerialist generally involves learning various acrobatic and gymnastic techniques, usually under the guidance of a professional trainer or by attending circus schools or aerial arts programs.

These training programs focus on strength, flexibility, and technical skills.

An aerialist must also have a deep understanding of safety measures and procedures, as the job involves a certain level of physical risk.

This can be gained through dedicated workshops or as part of the broader training program.

While there are no specific certifications required to become a professional aerialist, achieving a certain level of proficiency and demonstrating it in public performances or competitions can add credibility.

Ongoing practice and training are essential for a professional aerialist to maintain their skills and continue to improve.

Many professional aerialists also engage in other physical conditioning activities to maintain their strength and flexibility.

 

Professional Aerialist Salary Expectations

A Professional Aerialist’s salary can greatly fluctuate depending on their experience, location, and the type of performance.

On average, they can expect to earn around $40,000 (USD) per year.

High-profile aerialists performing in larger venues or prestigious events can earn significantly more, with the top earners making well over $70,000 (USD) per year.

However, those just starting out or performing at smaller venues may make less than the average wage.

 

Professional Aerialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Professional Aerialist need?

A professional aerialist should possess excellent physical strength and flexibility, as well as great balance and coordination.

They should have a good understanding of rhythm and body movement.

In addition, they need to have a high level of endurance to perform strenuous routines, and excellent concentration skills to focus on their performance while at great heights.

 

Do Professional Aerialists need any specific qualifications?

While there aren’t specific educational qualifications needed to be an aerialist, many professional aerialists have received formal training in circus arts, gymnastics, or dance.

Having a background in performing arts can also be beneficial.

Some professional aerialists have attended circus arts schools or workshops to enhance their skills.

 

What should you look for in a Professional Aerialist’s resume?

A Professional Aerialist’s resume should highlight their training, experience, and specialty areas within the field.

Look for formal training in circus arts, gymnastics, or dance, and any certifications they may have.

Evidence of regular performances, either solo or as part of a group, and any notable performances or awards should also be included.

 

What qualities make a good Professional Aerialist?

A good Professional Aerialist has a passion for performing and has the ability to engage and captivate an audience.

They are disciplined and dedicated to their craft, often practicing for hours a day to perfect their routines.

Safety is paramount in this role, so they should demonstrate a respect for safety procedures and the ability to stay calm under pressure.

 

What are the risks involved in being a Professional Aerialist?

Professional Aerialists often perform at great heights and their performances involve a lot of physical strain and highly technical maneuvers.

This puts them at risk for falls, injuries, and physical exhaustion.

It is important for aerialists to follow safety procedures, maintain good physical condition, and get regular check-ups to ensure they can perform their routines safely.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we unravelled the mystery behind what it truly means to be a professional aerialist.

And you know what?

It’s not just about performing tricks in the air.

It’s about painting masterpieces in the sky, one daring move at a time.

With our comprehensive professional aerialist job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to take flight.

But why not go further?

Soar higher with our job description generator. It’s your next leap towards creating precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every performance is a part of a larger spectacle.

Let’s create that spectacle. Together.