Job Description
The Department of Dance at Hope College invites applications for a full-time, Visiting Assistant Professor of Dance (beginning August 15, 2026). We are seeking a dynamic teacher, performer, and choreographer with professional experience in ballet. A terminal degree ( MFA or equivalent) is desired but not required. Significant professional experience will also be considered. Responsibilities include: teaching multiple levels of ballet, pointe, introductory dance courses for general education students, as well as additional technique and lecture classes that may fall within the candidate’s expertise (i.e. composition, improvisation, dance history, jazz, modern/contemporary etc.). Additionally, the successful candidate will be responsible for choreographing for the annual faculty-choreographed concert, setting work on the pre-professional dance companies associated with the department, mentoring students in the student dance showcase, and advising the student-led ballet club.
The ideal candidate will have a record of teaching pre-professional students at a variety of technical levels, and a passion for inspiring and guiding emerging artists. The candidate’s professional experience will point to an established collection of performance, choreography, and/or creative contributions to the field of ballet. Additionally, the successful candidate will embrace a collaborative and positive work culture with faculty and students.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS : Ability to combine excellence in classroom teaching with other appropriate professional activities such as mentorship, choreography, and opportunities outside of the college.
Successful applicants will demonstrate a commitment to all aspects of Hope’s mission as a liberal arts college. We are grounded in robust ecumenical Christian aspirations and daily strive for inclusive excellence. As part of the application, we ask all candidates to describe how they will engage and support the holistic mission of the College, particularly how their Christian faith and commitment to the liberal arts, and inclusive excellence shapes their approaches and identities as teachers, scholars, and mentors. More guidelines for Hope College candidate’s response to the mission statement can be found at hope.edu/jobs .
APPLICATION PROCEDURE : Consideration and interview of candidates will begin immediately. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Please submit the following electronically to the link provided on the Hope College Human Resources website:
a. Cover Letter
b. Resume or Curriculum Vitae
c. Unofficial Transcripts if applicable (official transcripts will be requested of the final candidate at time of hire)
d. Three names and contact information (daytime phone and/or email) of professional references
e. Teaching and Artistic Philosophy
f. A one-page reflection on the candidate’s Christian faith and alignment with Hope’s commitment to a multifaceted Christian environment, and how it shapes their approach as a teacher, scholar, and/or artist.
h. Links to website or online portfolio (choreography and teaching if possible)
Is this a visiting faculty position?
Yes
Rank
Assistant
Qualifications
A terminal degree (MFA or equivalent) is desired but not required. Significant professional experience will also be considered.
Successful applicants will demonstrate a commitment to all aspects of Hope’s mission as a liberal arts college. We are grounded in robust ecumenical Christian aspirations and daily strive for inclusive excellence. As part of the application, we ask all candidates to describe how they will engage and support the holistic mission of the College, particularly how their commitment to the Christian faith, the liberal arts, and inclusive excellence shapes their approaches and identities as teachers, scholars, and mentors.
Physical Demands
This position requires remaining in a sitting or standing position for frequent periods of time; uses office machinery such as a computers, printers, copy machines; Occasionally involves moving items over 10 pounds; frequently will move between different offices/workspaces/buildings; and requires effective communication abilities. In the case of temporary or permanent condition(s) that require(s) accommodation(s), reasonable accommodation(s) may be requested.
Pre-employment Screenings
“All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check. Some positions may have position specific requirements, such as education/licensure/certification verification, a physical, drug screening, credit checks and/or transportation record review.”
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
2023-131FR
Job Posting Open Date
02/02/2026
Job Posting Close Date
05/01/2026
Open Until Filled
No
Is this position available for sponsorship
No
Special Instructions to Applicants
a. Cover Letter
b. Resume or Curriculum Vitae
c. Unofficial Transcripts if applicable (official transcripts will be requested of the final candidate at time of hire)
d. Three names and contact information (daytime phone and/or email) of professional references
e. Teaching and Artistic Philosophy
f. A one-page reflection on the candidate’s Christian faith and alignment with Hope’s commitment to a multifaceted Christian environment, and how it shapes their approach as a teacher, scholar, and/or artist.
h. Links to website or online portfolio (choreography and teaching if possible)
Documents Needed to Apply
Required Documents
- Cover Letter
- Unofficial Transcripts
- Curriculum Vitae
- Media File
- Mission: Christian response
- Teaching Philosophy
- Research Statement
