Senior Ninja Coach

Dominique Dawes Academy; Rockville (MD); On-site; USD 40,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Dominique Dawes Academy is seeking a Senior Coach to deliver high-energy ninja programming for athletes of all ages. You will develop and implement engaging, safe classes, support coach development, and collaborate with program leaders to refine lesson plans and events.

You will lead by example, maintain a positive training environment, and mentor junior coaches while ensuring adherence to safety policies and gym protocols.

Qualifications

• High-energy, engaging coaching style.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Reliably punctual and consistent in attendance.
• Patience and positivity with children of varied ages.
• Able to adapt instructions to different learning styles and abilities.
• Clear communication via phone, email, and in person.
• Team-oriented, collaborative, and solution-focused.

Responsibilities

• Refine lesson plans with Program/General Manager and evaluate program effectiveness.
• Support gym management with scheduling and equipment changes.
• Serve as point person for events and showcases.
• Model exemplary coaching practices and positive athlete engagement.
• Assist with onboarding and training of new coaches and provide feedback.
• Ensure smooth class transitions and safe, organized training spaces.
• Maintain safety policies and coaching standards in all classes.
• Instruct weekly gymnastics and/or ninja classes for preschool to intermediate levels.
• Attend staff trainings, team meetings, and events.
• Uphold core values of respect, teamwork, and excellence.
• May be assigned manager on duty for shifts.

Skills

High-energy coaching

Interpersonal skills

Punctual and dependable

Patience with children

Adapt instruction to learning styles

Clear communication (phone, email)

Team-oriented and collaborative

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Job description

Description

The Senior Coach for ninja programming is responsible for delivering high-energy, engaging, and safe classes for athletes of all ages and skill levels. This role works closely with the General and Program Managers to support coach development, execute programming, and provide hands-on instruction.

The Senior Coach plays a key role in advancing the Dominique Dawes Academy’s mission to empower every child through movement in a positive, encouraging, and structured environment. Senior Coaches are expected to cultivate a fun, disciplined learning atmosphere that promotes confidence, coordination, strength, and teamwork.

Key Responsibilities

• Partner with the Program Manager and General Manager to refine lesson plans, evaluate program effectiveness, and implement improvements.
• Support gym management with the rollout of new lesson plans, equipment changeovers, and any scheduling needs.
• Serve as the point person for program-specific events and showcases, where applicable.
• Model exemplary coaching practices and positive athlete engagement.
• Assist with onboarding and training new coaches, providing ongoing support, guidance and performance feedback as needed.
• Collaborate with teammates and management to ensure smooth class transitions, rotations, and overall facility operations.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe training environment, including setup and breakdown of equipment.
• Monitor programming and class flow through regular on-floor presence; respond promptly to support needs, injuries, or safety concerns in accordance with gym protocols.
• Ensure all classes adhere to established safety policies, procedures, and coaching standards.
• Instruct weekly gymnastics and/or ninja classes for preschool, beginner, and intermediate-level athletes as assigned.
• Attend required staff training sessions, team meetings, seasonal evaluations, and special events.
• Uphold and model the academy’s core values of respect, teamwork, and excellence in all interactions.
• May be assigned manager on duty for various shifts.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Core Competencies

• High-energy, engaging, and positive coaching style
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Dependable, punctual, and consistent in attendance and performance
• Demonstrates patience, positivity, and the ability to work effectively with children of diverse ages and backgrounds
• Ability to adapt instruction to meet different learning styles and physical abilities
• Clear and effective communication skills via phone, email, and in person
• Team-oriented, collaborative, and solution-focused

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent (GED)
• Experience working with children in instructional, athletic, or recreational settings (preferred)
• Background in gymnastics, ninja, or another movement-based discipline (required)
• CPR/AED, First Aid, and SafeSport certified or willingness to obtain (required)

Work Schedule & Environment

• Primarily weekday afternoons/evenings and weekends, with occasional daytime hours during the week for classes.
• Classes are held in an indoor gym environment with frequent interaction with children and families

Physical Requirements

• Ability to demonstrate physical skills and actively engage with students
• Frequent standing, walking, kneeling, lifting, and moving equipment
• Must be able to spot athletes safely and provide physical assistance as needed
• Ability to lift and move up to 50lbs. and work in a physically active, fast-paced environment

The company is an equal opportunity employer, drug-free workplace, and complies with ADA regulations as applicable.