Adaptive Certified Personal Trainer

Special Strong; Riverside (CA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k)

Competitive salary

Employee discounts

Flexible schedule

Wellness resources

Free uniforms

Training & development

Job summary

Special Strong seeks an Adaptive Certified Fitness Trainer in Riverside, CA to deliver safe, individualized adaptive fitness sessions for participants with developmental and physical disabilities. The trainer reports to the Adaptive Certified Lead Trainer and coordinates with supervisors to align with program objectives.

Responsibilities include leading sessions, following IPPs/ISPs, documenting progress, and participating in onboarding and community activities.

Qualifications

• NCCA-accredited personal training certification (e.g., NASM, ACE, ACSM, ISSA).
• Adaptive Fitness certification or Special Strong Adaptive Training Certification.
• High School Diploma or equivalent; college degree preferred in related field.
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s in Kinesiology/Exercise Science preferred.
• CPR/First Aid/AED certification required and current.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in varied environments; strong communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead adaptive fitness training sessions for individuals or groups with safety policies.
• Follow individualized training plans aligned with IPPs and ISPs.
• Monitor attendance, engagement and progress; document outcomes.
• Communicate with Lead Trainer about goals and performance.
• Assist delivery of community-based fitness activities and maintain confidentiality.
• Report suspected abuse/neglect as mandated by law and complete required certifications.
• Participate in onboarding, initial consultations and free session delivery as needed.

Education

NCCA-accredited personal training certification

Adaptive Fitness certification or Special Strong Adaptive Training Certification

High School Diploma or equivalent

Associate’s or Bachelor's in Kinesiology/Exercise Science

Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills

Job description

Benefits:

• Special Strong Shirts
• 401(k)
• Competitive salary
• Employee discounts
• Flexible schedule
• Wellness resources
• Free uniforms
• Training & development

Job Description:

Adaptive Certified Fitness Trainer

Position Title:

Adaptive Certified Fitness Trainer

Role in the Organizational Structure:

The Adaptive Certified Fitness Trainer reports to the Adaptive Certified Lead Trainer and is responsible for delivering safe, individualized adaptive fitness training sessions. This role directly supports individuals with developmental and physical disabilities to achieve their health, wellness, and functional goals. The trainer collaborates with the CEO or assigned Supervisor to ensure services align with program expectations and participant objectives.

Work Hours:

Part-time or full-time depending on availability and program demand

Available shifts between:

7:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Monday through Saturday

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead adaptive fitness training sessions for individuals or groups, following safety and behavior policies.
• Implement and follow individualized training plans aligned with participants’ Individual Program Plans (IPPs).
• Monitor and document participant attendance, engagement, and progress.
• Maintain consistent communication with the Lead Trainer regarding participant goals and performance.
• Assist with the delivery of community-based fitness activities at approved facilities.
• Maintain professional, confidential, and supportive interactions with participants and their support teams.
• Report any Special Incidents or suspected abuse/neglect immediately as required by law. This position is considered a mandated reporter under California Welfare and Institutions Code §15630, and training will be provided.
• Participate in onboarding processes including initial consultations, orientation support, and free session delivery as needed.
• Contribute to documentation for goal progress and updates to Individual Service Plans (ISPs).

Minimum Qualifications:

• Required Certifications:
  • NCCA-accredited personal training certification (e.g., NASM, ACE, ACSM, ISSA, etc.)
  • Adaptive Fitness certification or Special Strong Adaptive Training Certification
• Education: High School Diploma or equivalent (Associate’s or Bachelor's in Kinesiology, Exercise Science, or related field preferred)
• Experience:
  • Preferred: At least 1 year of experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities
• CPR/First Aid/AED certification required and must remain current
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., work indoors and outdoors, and adapt to diverse physical environments.
• Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills

Benefits:

401(k) participation option available for eligible employees

Supervision Responsibilities:

Reports To: Adaptive Certified Lead Trainer

• Must complete and pass a background check including fingerprint clearance (e.g., DOJ/FBI Live Scan) as required by regional center and Title 17 regulations prior to start date. In addition, the online portion of the Adaptive Training Certification must be completed before the trainer is placed on payroll. Special Strong will pay for this certification. Once both the certification course is completed and the background check has cleared, the trainer will be officially placed on payroll.

Employment Status

• This is a non-exempt, hourly position. Employment is at-will and may be terminated at any time by either party, with or without cause, in accordance with applicable law.

Equal Opportunity

Special Strong Greater South Riverside is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Mandated Reporting

This position is designated as a mandated reporter under California Welfare and Institutions Code §15630. Staff will receive training on how to identify and report suspected abuse or neglect.

Injury and Illness Prevention

All staff will be trained under the organization's Injury and Illness Prevention Plan (IIPP) to ensure compliance with Cal/OSHA safety regulations.

Probationary Period

• All newly hired employees will undergo a ninety (90) day probationary period beginning on their first day of employment. The purpose of this introductory period is to assess the employee’s ability to perform the duties of the position and determine mutual fit with the organization.
• During this time, the employee’s performance, conduct, attendance, and overall suitability for continued employment will be evaluated. The probationary period may be extended at the discretion of management if additional time is needed to complete this assessment.
• Successful completion of the probationary period does not change the at-will nature of the employment relationship. Employment remains at-will and may be terminated at any time by either the employee or the company, with or without cause or notice, and without completion of the probationary period.

Flexible work from home options available.