NinjaZone Coach - Geauga YMCA

YMCA of Greater Cleveland; Chardon (OH); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A community nonprofit organization in Chardon, Ohio is seeking a NinjaZone Coach to lead dynamic youth classes combining gymnastics and martial arts. The ideal candidate will have experience in coaching youth, excellent communication skills, and a passion for fostering physical and personal development. The role requires high energy and the ability to maintain class enthusiasm while ensuring safety and engagement among participants.

Qualifications

• At least 1 year of experience working with youth.
• 1+ year experience in gymnastics or obstacle-style programming.
• Passion for working with youth.

Responsibilities

• Bring energy to every class.
• Lead structured NinjaZone classes.
• Keep accurate class attendance records.

Skills

High-energy coaching style

Excellent group management

Creative and adaptable

Strong communication skills

Education

CPR and First Aid certification

NinjaZone Coach certification

Job description

Position Summary

This position supports the work of the YMCA, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

NinjaZone is a program blending obstacle‑course training, gymnastics, parkour, and martial arts. It focuses on developing strength, agility, and confidence in children through a structured, progressive curriculum. The program encourages children to learn at their own pace while building body awareness, listening skills, and coachability.

The NinjaZone Coach brings high‑energy leadership to one of our most dynamic youth programs, blending gymnastics, martial arts, parkour, and obstacle training into an electrifying class experience. The coach is responsible for keeping the designated rooms clean and free from clutter, recognizing potential hazards, and communicating and eliminating hazards relative to program areas. The coach adheres to policies and responsibilities in the Child Abuse Prevention Plan, creates and implements age‑appropriate lesson plans, and maintains communication with parents and staff while reporting to the Youth and Family Coordinator.

NinjaZone Coaches lead by example, jumping, rolling, and high‑fiving their way through classes that build strength, coordination, confidence, and character.

Essential Functions

• Bring the energy‑coach every class with a high level of enthusiasm, voice projection, and expressive body language to keep young Ninjas engaged.
• Lead fun, structured NinjaZone classes with safe obstacle‑course setup, skill demonstrations, and age‑appropriate progressions.
• Use creative storytelling and imaginative instruction to teach fundamental movement skills (rolling, balancing, jumping, climbing, etc.).
• Keep kids focused and inspired, especially during moments of distraction or challenge.
• Reinforce positive behavior and sportsmanship while celebrating effort, not just achievement.
• Communicate regularly with parents and caregivers about student growth and program updates.
• Keep accurate class attendance records, aiming for continual retention and growth. Obtain a roster of paid participants at the beginning of the session and inform the supervisor of any discrepancies.
• Ensure completion of daily equipment checks and complete daily cleaning tasks.
• Attend and participate in training, team meetings, and seasonal events.
• Ensure cleanliness, safety, and readiness of all class areas and equipment.
• Uphold YMCA core values and reinforce NinjaZone's emphasis on Focused Energy, Work Ethic, and Self‑Responsibility.

Qualifications

Experience

• At least 1 year of experience working with youth (teaching, coaching, childcare, or equivalent).
• At least 1 year working in gymnastics, tumbling, martial arts, dance, or obstacle‑style programming.
• Must be available to work evenings and weekends.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and problem‑solving skills.
• Passion for working with youth and ability to bring BIG energy to every session.

Certifications & Requirements

• CPR, First Aid, and Child Abuse Prevention certification required within 30 days of hire.
• Adhere to Blood‑borne Pathogen standards and attend annual training.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• NinjaZone Coach certification (training provided).

Skills & Traits

• High‑energy coaching style with an engaging and playful teaching presence.
• Excellent group management and communication skills.
• Creative, patient, and adaptable when working with a wide range of personalities and ages.
• Comfortable demonstrating physical skills and maintaining an active presence throughout class.
• Team player with a positive, growth‑minded attitude.

Physical Demands

• Must be able to run, jump, climb, crawl, and lift up to 50 lbs.
• Frequent kneeling, squatting, spotting, and equipment movement required.
• Ability to maintain a physically active pace for the duration of class.

Work Environment

• High‑energy, loud, and fast‑paced gym environment.
• Must be able to maintain enthusiasm in a setting with high levels of movement, noise, and excitement.
• Evening and weekend availability required.

YMCA Core Competencies

• Mission Advancement: Embraces and models the Y's mission and values.
• Collaboration: Builds positive relationships with families, youth, and teammates.
• Operational Effectiveness: Delivers high‑quality programming with safety and enthusiasm.
• Personal Growth: Demonstrates self‑awareness, reliability, and continued learning.