Adaptive Exercise Specialist (PRN)

Paraquad; St. Louis (MO); On-site; USD 36,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Paraquad is seeking a PRN Adapted Exercise Specialist to deliver comprehensive health and wellness programs for people with disabilities and older adults at the Stephen A. Orthwein Center in St. Louis.

You will lead adapted group classes, guide one-on-one training, and monitor progress while applying adaptive exercise principles to improve health outcomes. The role requires collaboration with staff, strong organizational skills, and commitment to independent living philosophy.

Qualifications

• Degree in health-related field such as OT, OTA, PT, PTA.
• At least one year of experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement health and wellness programs for participants.
• Assist participants with adapted exercises and transfers.
• Develop and lead adapted group fitness classes.
• Develop and implement individualized exercise plans for one-on-one training.
• Monitor participant technique and progress; ensure safety.

Skills

Adapted exercise

Group fitness

Exercise modification

Documentation

Customer service

Education

Health-related degree (OT/OTA/PT/PTA)

Tools

Microsoft Office

Database systems

Job description

About Us

Paraquad champions equity and independence for people with disabilities through services partnerships, education, and advocacy.

Position Summary

The PRN Adapted Exercise Specialist is responsible for implementing a comprehensive health and wellness program for people with disabilities and older adults to empower individuals to achieve their health and fitness goals and reduce secondary health conditions. This position will be responsible for providing direct services to Stephen A. Orthwein Center members.

Key Responsibilities

Service Delivery

• Develop and implement comprehensive health and wellness programs for participants that are directed toward reducing health risks and improving health status.
• Assist participants as needed with exercises, including transfers, set up on adapted exercise equipment, and guidance on appropriate exercises.
• Develop and lead adapted group fitness classes.
• Develop and implement individualized exercise plans for one‑on‑one training participants.
• Monitor participant technique and progress with exercises.
• Utilize adaptive technology to maximize participant engagement in exercise.
• Demonstrate initiative and a level of expertise in use of fitness principles and technology to serve as a resource to staff and members.
• Demonstrate understanding of injury and disease functions common to participants.
• Monitor cardiovascular, respiratory, and muscular changes due to exercise including pain, fatigue, and skin changes.
• Assist with administrative tasks, such as checking in members and accepting payments, as needed.

Documentation

• Maintain exercise participant files to ensure that all documentation is filed in the participant file.
• Complete all monthly, quarterly and annual paperwork by assigned deadlines.
• Document participant case notes in an efficient and professional manner using Paraquad's database.
• Maintain assigned participant files in accordance with defined deadlines and procedures.
• Gather accurate data for program evaluation and reporting purposes by assigned deadlines.

Independent Living Services

• Provide assistance to participants to help them plan and achieve personal goals.
• Establish rapport with participants to assist with determination of the need for additional services.
• Refer participants to Paraquad's other programs and services as needed.

Miscellaneous

• Demonstrate understanding and commitment to the independent living philosophy.
• Protect participant's rights to privacy and confidentiality in all forms of communication.
• Attend and participate in all required trainings and meetings.
• Assist to fulfill program outreach and education functions as directed.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Degree in health-related Field (i.e. OT, OTA, PT, PTA)
• At least one year of experience preferred

Skills and Competencies

• Organization
• Written/Oral Communication
• Time Management
• Attention to Detail
• Multi‑Tasking
• Professionalism
• Team Oriented
• Customer Services
• Computer Literacy in Microsoft Office Programs and Database Environment
• Knowledge of Anatomy, Kinesiology, and Secondary Conditions of Disability
• Driving and Personal Transportation Preferred

Certifications / Licenses

• Required: Licensed Occupational Therapist/Assistant or Licensed Physical Therapist/Assistant

Qualifications

• Knowledge and understanding of the philosophy and goals of independent living/disability rights

Working Conditions

• Must be able to remain in a stationary position 25% of the time.
• Needs to move about inside the office to access file cabinets, office machinery, etc. and positions self to maintain files in file cabinets.
• Consistently operates a computer and other office productivity machinery, such as copy machine, phone system, and computer printer.
• Must be able to communicate information and ideas so others will understand and must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations.
• Frequently moves items, weighing up to 50 pounds, across environment for various needs.
• Must be able to work full‑time in office and gym environment. Occasional flexibility with schedule as needed.
• Requires travel within 30 miles of the office and further as necessary.

EEO Statement

Paraquad is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to an individual's sex, race, color, religion, age, disability status, protected veteran status, national or ethnic origin, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation. We are dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment - fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Our employees proudly reflect the diversity and ideas of the communities we serve.

Accommodation: If you are unable to use our online application process due to a disability, please contact Barb Cant at 314‑289‑4200 or [e-mail] with the nature of your accommodation request.

Employee Certification

This job description is not intended to cover all 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. Additionally, this job description does not constitute a contract of employment, and the company may exercise its employment‑at‑will right at any time.