Fitness Instructor

Sjsu-Student-Union; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 48,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Sick pay

Job summary

The Student Union, Inc. at San Jose State University invites applications for a part-time Fitness Instructor at the Spartan Recreation and Aquatic Center.

The role involves leading safe and effective group fitness classes, preparing routines and music, and ensuring all equipment is stored securely after each session. Under the Fitness and Wellness supervision, you will adapt activities for all fitness levels, arrange substitutes when needed, communicate promptly about changes, attend staff

Qualifications

• Group Fitness certification/training required (Nationally recognized certifications preferred).
• First Responder - responds to emergencies by rescuing and administering appropriate first aid and/or CPR/AED procedures.
• Able to lift at least 45 pounds safely and stand on your feet for an extended period of time.
• Ensures that all equipment is used in a manner that promotes safety and that after use is stored appropriately.
• Good conflict resolution skills necessary.
• Continue to maintain access to the latest research and trends in the fitness industry.
• Work and communicate effectively with a diverse University community.

Responsibilities

• Lead safe and effective fitness classes.
• Arrive early and manage class times.
• Arrange for qualified substitutes when unable to teach.
• Ensure equipment stored properly after class.
• Maintain safety of the class area.
• Stay updated on industry trends.
• Communicate with Fitness and Wellness Supervisor.
• Attend staff meetings and trainings.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Skills

Group Fitness certification

First Aid/CPR

Lifting 45 lbs

Safety awareness

Conflict resolution

Industry trends

Diversity & inclusion

Job description

Fitness Instructor

Application Deadline: 7 September 2026

Department: SRAC Fitness & Wellness

Employment Type: Part Time

Location: Spartan Recreation and Aquatic Center

Reporting To: Richard Pham

Compensation: $23.50 - $35.50 / hour

Description

Position Overview The Student Union, Inc. is 501(c)(3) nonprofit auxiliary that maintains three major facilities at San Jose State University in downtown San Jose, California. These facilities include the Diaz Compean Student Union Building, the Provident Credit Union Event Center, and the Spartan Recreation and Aquatic Center. The Student Union, Inc. functions as part of the Student Affairs Division on campus, and is governed by a Board of Directors made up of a student majority, faculty, and administrators.

Mission The Student Union, Inc. of San Jose State University supports the development, growth, and well-being of students and the campus community by providing diverse programs, desired services, and quality facilities to enhance the collegiate experience.

Job Summary The Student Union is known for being a great place to work and build a career. This is an outstanding opportunity to help us grow in a sustainable and thoughtful way, to provide vision, leadership, and administrative direction to the aquatic function for the recreation group, a vital part of The Student Union and student engagement at San Jose State University. Under the supervision of the Fitness and Wellness Category, the Fitness Instructor is responsible for leading safe and effective fitness classes.

Essential Functions and Tasks

• Fitness Instructors arrive at least 10 minutes prior to the start of their class. All classes will begin and end at the designated time.
• Prepares routines and musical accompaniment that adhere to current industry guidelines and standards for exercise in a group setting.
• Arrange for qualified substitutes when unable to teach a scheduled class.
• Ensures that all equipment is stored properly at the conclusion of class.
• Performs additional duties as requested.
• Ensure the safety of the class area prior to starting classes.
• Prepare routines and musical accompaniment that adhere to current industry guidelines and standards for exercise in a group setting.
• Maintain current knowledge of leading trends in the fitness industry.
• Maintain open lines of communication with the Fitness and Wellness Supervisor.
• Arrange for qualified substitutes when unable to teach a scheduled class. Inform the Fitness and Wellness Supervisor of all changes.
• Ensure all equipment is properly stored and locked at the conclusion of class.
• Attend all regularly scheduled staff meetings, training days, and workshops.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Group Fitness certification/training required (Nationally recognized certifications preferred)
• First Responder - responds to emergencies by rescuing and administering appropriate first aid and/or CPR/AED procedures.
• Able to lift at least 45 pounds safely and stand on your feet for an extended period of time.
• Ensures that all equipment is used in a manner that promotes safety and that after use is stored appropriately.
• Good conflict resolution skills necessary.
• Continue to maintain access to the latest research and trends in the fitness industry.
• Work and communicate effectively with a diverse University community.

Preferred Qualifications

• Nationally recognized group fitness certifications preferred
• Current First Aid/CPR/AED certification; American Red Cross required. Must be an in person, hands on certification, on-line certifications will not be accepted.
• Minimum of six months instructor experience, a National group fitness certification from a recognized organization (ACSM, ACE, etc.), is preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to properly instruct a group class including skilled cueing, proper technique, interesting and appropriate choreography, ability to stay on the beat and utilize a 32 count tempo.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

• Ensure all equipment is used in a manner that promotes safety and is stored properly.
• Ability to teach to all fitness levels.
• Excellent customer service, ability to manage conflicts, and create an inclusive environment.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to quickly and effectively respond to emergencies.
• Interpret and implement proper policies and procedures for all emergencies.
• Maintain a professional appearance and attitude.
• Ability to develop effective working relationships with a diverse community clientele.
• Able to lift 45 pounds safely and stand for an extended period of time.

Work Requirements

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• The position works in an indoor, recreation facility program-oriented environment.
  • The physical demands of this position are described below
    • Sitting, walking, twisting, bending, climbing, pulling, pushing, squatting, crawling, kneeling, balancing, reaching, and coordination (eye, hand, foot).
    • Fall (Slip, Trip) Conditions that result in falls (impacts) from height or traditional walking and playing surfaces.
    • Lifting and carrying, often 10-25lbs, frequently 26-50lbs, occasionally 50-75 lbs.
    • Hearing and speaking to exchange information in person or on the telephone.
    • Dexterity of hands, fingers, and wrists to operate a computer keyboard and calculator.
• In general, the position works a schedule based on business needs 9 a.m. - 8 p.m., Monday - Saturday
  • When school is in session - may work up to, but not in excess of 20 hours per week (among all concurrent positions).
  • When classes are not in session (i.e. summer break) may work up to, but not in excess of 40 hours per week.
• This position is non-exempt from the provisions of Section 1 of the California Industrial Welfare Commission Orders.

Employment Information & Policies

Benefits

• This position is employed through the Student Union at San Jose State University which offers employees to receive 40 hours of sick pay during the calendar year.

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action

The Student Union of San José State University (SJSU) is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer committed to nondiscrimination on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, creed, disability, ethnicity, gender, genetic information, pregnancy, marital status, medical condition, national origin, race, religion or lack thereof, sex, sexual orientation, transgender, or protected veteran status consistent with applicable federal and state laws. The Student Union and SJSU have a firm and unambiguous commitment to the active elimination of discrimination, and the affirmative recruitment of a diverse, multi-racial community of students, faculty and staff.

Background Check and Fingerprinting

Student Union employees are required to undergo and complete a successful background check that includes verification of employment and education, as well as a check of criminal records for employment. Candidates for positions where the employee will come in regular contact with minors and cash management will be required to be fingerprinted. This policy includes emergency hires and may also be applicable to volunteers depending on the work performed. In some cases, the background check will include a credit check and/or a Department of Motor Vehicles check, as well as a check of licenses and certificates when applicable. All background checks are conducted through the Student Union third‑party vendor, Accurate Background.

California State University (CSU) Learning and Development

1. CSU - Injury and Illness Prevention Program
2. CSU - Preventing Discrimination and Harassment for Non-Supervisors
3. CSU - Sexual Misconduct Prevention Program (Title IX) - required within the first 6 months of hire
4. Data Security and FERPA

California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act

All Student Union at San Jose State University employees are considered mandated reporters under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and are required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment.