Aquatic Group Fitness Instructor

The Salvation Army North & Central Illinois Division; Quincy (IL); On-site; USD 23,000 - 37,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Complimentary Kroc Center membership

Paid training and development

Flexible, part-time schedule

Job summary

The Quincy Kroc Center in Quincy, IL is seeking an Aquatics Instructor to lead safe, engaging aquatic classes and foster member participation. The role offers a flexible, part-time schedule with morning sessions and opportunities to grow professionally.

Responsibilities include teaching Aqua Fit and Aqua Blast, ensuring safety, preparing equipment, and building a welcoming community. Prior fitness instruction and CPR/AED certification are preferred, with willingness to obtain certification if

Qualifications

• Experience in fitness instruction or related field.
• Ability to lead and engage groups in a safe, professional, and motivating manner.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and customer service skills.
• Ability to adapt exercises for varying fitness levels and abilities.
• Reliable attendance and punctuality.
• Passion for health, wellness, fitness, and helping others achieve goals.
• Willingness to obtain a qualifying Group Fitness Instructor certification within a designated timeframe if not currently certified.

Responsibilities

• Lead safe, engaging aquatic group fitness classes for various fitness levels.
• Create a positive class experience that encourages participation and retention.
• Demonstrate proper exercise techniques and offer modifications as needed.
• Ensure participant safety while maintaining class energy.
• Prepare and organize aquatic fitness equipment before and after class.
• Build relationships with members and foster a welcoming community.
• Stay current on aquatic fitness trends and industry best practices.

Skills

Fitness instruction

Group leadership

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Customer service

Punctuality

Education

Group Fitness Instructor certification (preferred)

CPR/AED certification (preferred)

Job description

Pay & Schedule

Pay: $17.00-$27.00/hour. Pay rate based on certifications and experience.

Schedule (Beginning October 18): Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays 8am-8:45am.

Why Join the Quincy Kroc Center?

• Competitive pay based on experience and certifications
• Complimentary adult or family Kroc Center membership (taxable benefit; upgrade fees may apply)
• Paid training and professional development opportunities
• Flexible, part-time schedule
• Supportive, mission-driven culture
• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the health and wellness of our community

Responsibilities

• Lead safe, effective and engaging aquatic group fitness classes for a variety of fitness levels.
• Create a positive and motivating class experience that encourages member participation and retention.
• Demonstrate proper exercise techniques and offer modifications when needed.
• Ensure participant safety while maintaining class energy and engagement.
• Prepare and organize aquatic fitness equipment before and after class.
• Build relationships with members and help create a welcoming community environment.
• Stay current on aquatic fitness trends and industry best practics.

Current Aquatics Classes

Aqua Fit |

Mondays & Wednesdays at 8:00am

• A medium-intensity water fitness class that combines cardio, strength training, flexibility, balance, and muscular endurance exercises. Instructors may utilize a variety of aquatic fitness equipment to create engaging and effective workouts.

Aqua Blast | Fridays at 8:00am

• A fun, low-impact aquatic workout utilizing the resistance of our Current River to improve cardiovascular endurance, mobility, balance, and strength. Ideal for participants of varying fitness levels, including those seeking a joint-friendly exercise option.

Qualifications

Required

• Experience in fitness instruction, coaching, personal training, aquatic leadership, programming, wellness programming, or a related field.
• Ability to lead and engage groups in a safe, professional, and motivating manner.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and customer service skills.
• Ability to adapt exercises and instruction to accommodate varying fitness levels and abilities.
• Reliable attendance and punctuality.
• Passion for health, wellness, fitness, and helping others achieve their goals.
• Willingness to obtain a qualifying Group Fitness Instructor certification within a designated timeframe if not currently certified.

Preferred

• Current Group Fitness Instructor certification or equivalent certification through organizations such as ACE, NASM, or a related fitness organization.
• Aquatic fitness, water aerobics, or water exercise instruction experience.
• CPR/AED and First Aid certification.
• Experience teaching Aqua Fitness, Water Aerobics, Aqua Zumba, Aqua HIIT, SilverSneakers Splash, or similar aquatic fitness formats.
• Knowledge of exercise physiology, anatomy, and safe exercise techniques.
• Experience working with active older adults, beginners, or participants with varying mobility levels.

Don't meet every qualification? We encourage you to apply. Candidates with relevant fitness, coaching, aquatics, or wellness experience who are willing to obtain a qualifying certification may be considered.

About The Quincy Kroc Center

The Quincy Kroc Center is a community-focused wellness, fitness, recreation, and worship center dedicated to helping individuals develop their minds, bodies, and spirits. Through quality programs, meaningful relationships, and a commitment to service, we strive to strengthen individuals, families, and the broader community.