Group Ex Instructor

YMCA of Greater San Francisco; San Rafael (CA); On-site; USD 41,328 - 70,257; Full time

Job summary

The YMCA of Greater San Francisco is seeking a Group Exercise Instructor to deliver high‑quality wellness programs for members and the community. You will promote the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility while ensuring safe, engaging fitness experiences.

In this role you will lead classes, adapt exercises for all fitness levels, mentor new staff, and help sustain participation through friendly, inclusive guidance in a fast‑paced community setting.

Qualifications

• Must hold and maintain a nationally recognized Group Fitness Instructor certification (AFAA, NETA, ACE, etc.) or a specialized fitness certification.
• Must possess strong communication, program planning, team building and leadership skills.
• Must have a good understanding of the YMCA movement, mission, and vision.
• Within 30 days of hire obtain Y approved CPR/AED/First Aid certification.
• See “Group Exercise Instructor Certification requirements” addendum for required fitness certifications.

Responsibilities

• Preparing classes on time with equipment and materials; managing attendance and schedules.
• Greeting participants and fostering an inclusive, supportive environment.
• Leading warm-ups, cool-downs, and exercises for various fitness levels with safety in mind.
• Engaging members and responding to feedback to improve the class experience and retention.
• Demonstrating leadership by mentoring new staff and substituting for other instructors when needed.

Skills

Group Fitness Certification

Communication

Program Planning

Leadership

YMCA Mission

Job description

Careers by Empowering Futures, Building Communities

Imagine going to work each day knowing that your efforts positively impact individuals and communities.

As a global movement and the nation's leading nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, the YMCA of Greater San Francisco offers more than just a job—we offer a career with a future and the opportunity to make a lasting difference in your community.

At the Y, you can uncover your passion and build a lifelong career addressing some of the nation's most pressing social issues.

Our Organizational Culture

At the YMCA of Greater San Francisco, we are committed to demonstrating values that aim to building strong communities where you can Be, Belong and Become. With Truth & Courage, we strive to understand and act on individual and societal truths. We ensure a safe and inclusive environment with Authenticity & Accessibility, allowing everyone to participate according to their needs. Our approach is Dependable & Creative, as we respond to community needs through strong partnerships. Above all, we embody Dignity & Empathy, treating everyone with respect and compassion, and recognizing the inherent dignity in all individuals.

Position Summary

The Group Exercise Instructor is responsible for embodying the YMCA's core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility while delivering wellness services that positively impact participants. This role focuses on promoting the YMCA’s Commitment to Community and Wellness Pledge, aiming to enhance the health and wellness of YMCA members and the surrounding communities. The Group Exercise Instructor position requires enthusiasm and a commitment to motivating others to achieve their health and wellness goals. The instructor ensures that programs are conducted safely and in alignment with guidelines set by the YMCA of the USA, ACE, AFAA, or other recognized fitness governing bodies. As a Cause-Driven Leader, the Group Exercise Instructor serves as an ambassador for YMCA culture and a model of our service and engagement principles.

Job Responsibilities

Class Preparation and Management

• Ensuring timely arrival and proper preparation with all necessary equipment and materials.
• Managing attendance and class schedules, adhering to payroll and administrative procedures.

Creating a Positive, Inclusive Environment

• Greeting and welcoming participants while fostering an atmosphere of support and inclusivity.
• Using clear, motivating communication and addressing participants by name to enhance engagement.

Safety and Adaptability

• Leading warm-ups, cool-downs, and exercises that accommodate various fitness levels.
• Following safety protocols and providing modifications to ensure a safe and effective class for everyone.

Member Engagement and Retention

• Connecting participants to wellness resources and responding to feedback to improve the class experience.
• Creating an engaging, enjoyable atmosphere that promotes class retention and ongoing participation.

Leadership and Teamwork

• Demonstrating leadership by mentoring new staff and substituting for other instructors when needed.
• Supporting the YMCA’s mission and fostering community engagement through your role.

Qualifications

• Must hold and maintain a nationally recognized Group Fitness Instructor certification (such as AFAA, NETA, ACE, etc.) or a specialized fitness certification (such as Zumba, Les Mills, Yoga, Barre, Pilates, etc.).
• Must possess strong communication, program planning, team building and leadership skills.
• Must have a good understanding of the YMCA movement, mission, and vision.
• Within 30 days of hire obtain Y approved CPR/AED/First Aid certification.
• See “Group Exercise Instructor Certification requirements” addendum for list of required fitness certification.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bilingual in Spanish, Cantonese, Mandarin, or other languages.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

The Group Exercise Instructor is primarily indoors in a fitness studio or gym. The role involves standing, walking, and demonstrating exercises for extended periods. Instructors may need to lift and set up heavy equipment such as weights, resistance bands, or exercise mats. The Group Exercise Instructor should be physically capable of demonstrating various exercises, which may involve lifting, bending, or holding positions for prolonged periods. The position requires clear communication and the ability to monitor and guide participants effectively while ensuring their safety. Instructors may also work in varying temperature environments, depending on the location of the class.

Disclaimers

• Must successfully complete a background screening, including criminal and employment verification. Some positions may also require a credit check.
• All duties and responsibilities are essential job functions subject to reasonable accommodation.
• The YMCA of Greater San Francisco promotes an equal employment opportunity workplace, which includes reasonable accommodation for otherwise qualified disabled applicants and employees. Please contact your manager if you have any questions about this policy or these job duties.
• This job description may not be all-inclusive, and employees are expected to perform other duties as assigned by management. Job descriptions and duties may be modified by management as needed.
• Job offers are conditional and contingent upon background clearance. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance and CA Fair Chance Act, we will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records for employment.

Salary Description

The Group Ex Instructor position offers a compensation range of $31.60 - $50.60 per hour. This rate is based on salary benchmarking for similar roles and is aligned with grant fund approvals and requirements for the position