Principal, Professional Training Division

POSITION SUMMARY

Cincinnati Ballet is looking to hire a Principal Faculty, Professional Training Division (PTD) to join their Otto M. Budig Academy's most elite team. With a keen focus on fostering pathways to a career in dance, the Principal, PTD, should be well-versed in professional company hiring requirements not only at Cincinnati Ballet but also at dance organizations across the nation and the world. The ideal candidate is a master ballet teacher, exceptionally proficient in contemporary dance styles, serves as a strong ambassador for the organization, and possesses a professional, caring, and positive approach to teaching, mentoring, and student engagement. The Principal, PTD, will plan, cultivate, and execute a program that best prepares its students for professional employment in dance. Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, three references, and a link to examples of choreographic work.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Provide high-quality instruction in ballet and contemporary dance that challenges and prepares students for professional careers. Curate supplemental training to develop versatile and employable dancers. Create an inspiring, inclusive, and supportive learning environment. Oversee student progression through structured goal-setting and evaluation processes, including beginning-of-year, mid-year, and end-of-year check-ins. Facilitate collaborative faculty feedback to support each dancer's development and alignment with individual goals. Provide career mentorship, including audition preparation, professional guidance, and letters of recommendation. Collaborate with Artistic staff to prepare PTD dancers for company productions, support rehearsal processes, and align training with company standards and repertory. Liaise on casting and contribute to the development pipeline into the professional company. Lead planning and execution of PTD performances in collaboration with Academy leadership, ensuring a range of programming and performance opportunities. Coordinate with production and related departments to support high-quality presentations. Manage daily PTD operations, including scheduling, communication, attendance, and student reporting. Maintain clear communication with Academy leadership regarding student progress and program needs. Enforce policies and disciplinary standards in alignment with Cincinnati Ballet guidelines. Lead and support recruitment efforts, including participation in the National Audition Tour, review of auditions (in-person and video), and ongoing communication with prospective students and families. Build and maintain relationships with prospective students across programs. Guide students through audition processes and support placement into professional companies and post-secondary programs. Maintain a teaching presence in the Academy's Advanced Division and Summer Intensives. Participate in Academy events, faculty meetings, and recruitment initiatives. Uphold all Cincinnati Ballet policies and maintain a safe, inclusive environment.

KEY PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Advanced knowledge of classical ballet, contemporary dance, and pedagogical practices; professional training and/or degree in dance preferred. Minimum of five years of advanced-level ballet teaching experience, ideally within a pre-professional or professional training environment. Demonstrated experience in choreography, staging, and rehearsal direction, with the ability to lead performance-based programming. Strong commitment to student development, including goal-setting, mentorship, and preparing dancers for professional pathways. Experience supporting audition preparation and student placement into professional companies or post-secondary programs. Collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively with artistic staff, faculty, and administrative teams. Clear, compassionate communicator with strong organizational and administrative skills. Ability to foster an inclusive, supportive environment while maintaining appropriate discipline and boundaries. Commitment to the values and culture of Cincinnati Ballet and experience working with diverse populations. Sound judgment and a strong commitment to the safety and well-being of minors. Proficiency with modern technologies including MS Office and virtual communication platforms. Willingness to continue developing as an educator and leader. Subject to criminal background, motor vehicle, and credit checks.

ADDITIONAL ELIGIBILITY QUALIFICATIONS

Top candidates must be willing to teach an in-person class as part of the interviewing process. To be considered for this position, candidates must be willing to complete a criminal background, motor vehicle, and credit checks.

EXPECTED WORK HOURS AND TRAVEL

Must be able to work a highly flexible schedule, which may include weekday and/or weekend hours between 9 am and 8:30 pm. Most hours are scheduled in advance, but weekly flexibility is required. Hours change seasonally. On occasion, travel to audition sites, performance venues, and community centers may be required.

OTHER DUTIES

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

AAP/EEO STATEMENT

Cincinnati Ballet believes our organization and our art is an inclusive space. We provide equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, gender identification, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law. We invite you to join us!

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

From $60,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee assistance program Employee discount Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Education:

Bachelor's (Preferred)

Experience:

classical ballet and contemporary dance: 5 years (Required) pedagogical technique: 5 years (Required)

Work Location:

In person