Temporary PE Instructor

Cornell University; Town of Ithaca (NY); On-site; USD 6,696 - 13,392; Part time

Job summary

Cornell University is hiring a Physical Education Instructor to teach various disciplines including Sailing, Yoga, and Swimming. The position involves daily lesson planning and 2–4 hours of weekly instruction with a pay range of $600–$1,200 per section, depending on experience.

Applicants should have a high school diploma and relevant teaching experience. Competency in the activity to be taught and excellent communication skills are required. This temporary role is not eligible for benefits.

Qualifications

• 2–3 years of relevant experience in physical education.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs.
• Experience working directly with people from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.

Responsibilities

• Daily/weekly lesson planning for PE courses.
• PE record keeping including attendance and grading.
• 2–4 hours of instruction per week.

Skills

Strong competency in the activity to teach

Excellent customer service skills

Strong organizational skills

Communication skills

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Microsoft Office

Google Drive

Job description

Physical Education Instructor Responsibilities

Physical Education (PE) Instructors are front‑line staff responsible for teaching over 500 PE courses. They provide instruction in a variety of disciplines including Sailing, Yoga, Swimming, Scuba, Bowling, Dance, Fencing, Fishing, Gymnastics, Ice Skating, Hockey, Soccer, Basketball, Volleyball, Martial Arts, Badminton, Tennis, Archery, Hand Guns, Trap and Skeet, and Weight Training.

Temporary PE instructors provide in‑person weekly instruction for students enrolled in courses. Duties include:

• Daily/weekly lesson planning
• PE record keeping (attendance, Canvas upkeep, grading)
• Email correspondence and communication
• 2–4 hours of instruction per week
• Pay: $600–$1,200 per section, depending on experience and certification. Positions are temporary, non‑benefits eligible, and not eligible for visa sponsorship.

All staff are expected to foster a culture of belonging and a psychologically healthy work environment by communicating across differences, showing respect, compassion, and empathy, and supporting work/life integration.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma with at least 2–3 years of relevant experience.
• Strong competency in the activity you will teach.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Strong organizational and communication skills (written and verbal).
• Basic computer skills including Microsoft Office, Google Drive, email, and spreadsheets.
• Related certifications in the area (e.g., instructor cert, CPR/First Aid).
• Ability to lift 50 lbs.
• Experience working directly with people from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Experience modeling values that support inclusion, belonging, and wellbeing.
• Experience incorporating perspectives of multiple communities.

Preferred Qualifications

• 3–5 years of teaching experience.
• Advanced certification in teaching area.
• First Aid/CPR/AED certification.

Additional Information

Pay: $600–$1,200 per section. These positions are temporary, non‑benefits eligible, and not eligible for visa sponsorship.

EEO Statement

Cornell welcomes students, faculty, and staff with diverse backgrounds from across the globe to pursue world‑class education and career opportunities, to further the founding principle of “... any person ... any study.” No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally protected status or subjected to prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, such factors as race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex, pregnancy or pregnancy‑related conditions, age, creed, religion, actual or perceived disability (including persons associated with such a person), arrest and/or conviction record, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, an individual’s genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Cornell University embraces diversity in its workforce and seeks job candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff of all identities and backgrounds. We hire based on merit, and encourage people from historically underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply. Consistent with federal law, Cornell engages in affirmative action in employment for qualified protected veterans as defined in the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) and qualified individuals with disabilities under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law.