Temporary Recreation Leader III - Personal Trainer

City of Alexandria, VA; Alexandria (VA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Alexandria is seeking a Temporary Recreation Leader III - Personal Trainer to design and implement safe, individualized fitness programs for clients, with a focus on older adults. The role provides instruction, motivation, and support to help participants achieve health and fitness goals in a welcoming environment.

The department emphasizes teamwork, ongoing education, and community engagement. Certification, CPR/First Aid, and background checks are required, with opportunities to lead

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Current nationally recognized Personal Trainer certification (ACE, NASM, ACSM, NSCA, or equivalent).
• CPR/AED and First Aid certifications required.
• Two or more years of experience instructing older adult group fitness or wellness programs.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Knowledge of exercise science, fitness programming, and injury prevention.
• Background check and drug screening required before employment.

Responsibilities

• Conduct fitness assessments and evaluate client needs, goals, and abilities.
• Develop and implement personalized exercise programs.
• Instruct clients on proper exercise techniques and equipment usage.
• Monitor client progress and adjust training plans as needed.
• Provide motivation, encouragement, and education to support healthy lifestyle choices.
• Maintain a safe workout environment by following established safety procedures.
• Ensure fitness equipment is clean, organized, and in good working condition.
• Maintain accurate client records, progress notes, and training schedules.
• Promote personal training services and assist with member engagement and retention.
• Respond to emergencies and complete incident reports when necessary.
• Attend staff meetings, training, and continuing education opportunities.
• Lead engaging, research-based fitness classes.
• Facilitate a welcoming environment that promotes safety, independence, and participation.
• Work collaboratively with City staff and utilize department resources for program success.
• Support Alexandria’s community by expanding access to high-quality wellness programming.

Skills

Communication

Customer service

Motivation

Injury prevention

Exercise science

Fitness programming

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Temporary Recreation Leader III - Personal Trainer

Recreation Services Division

About Alexandria

The City of Alexandria is situated in northern Virginia, along the Potomac River, and borders Washington, D.C., Arlington County, and Fairfax County. With a population of approximately 150,000, Alexandria is the seventh-largest city in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Nearly one-quarter of the city is designated as national or local historic districts, showcasing its unique charm and rich heritage. Alexandria’s vibrant waterfront and dynamic community make it an exceptional place to live and work.

A Message from the Director

Welcome to the City of Alexandria’s Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities. I am excited that you are considering joining our team. Every day, we have the privilege of serving a city that values connection, creativity, and community. Our parks, programs, and cultural spaces reflect Alexandria’s diversity and spirit, and our people are the heart of it all.

As you explore opportunities within RPCA, know that you are stepping into a department where teamwork, curiosity, and service guide everything we do. We take pride in our work, we find purpose in our impact, and we celebrate the difference each team member makes. Together, we are building something meaningful for the people of Alexandria, and I am grateful for your interest in being part of it.

Hashim T. Taylor, Director, Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities

Position Overview

The Personal Trainer is responsible for designing and implementing safe, effective, and individualized fitness programs for clients. This position provides instruction, motivation, and support to help participants achieve their health and fitness goals while ensuring a safe and welcoming environment.

What You Should Bring

We’re seeking an enthusiastic, compassionate, and reliable individual with a passion for promoting the wellness of older adults. The ideal candidate will:

• Conduct fitness assessments and evaluate client needs, goals, and abilities.
• Develop and implement personalized exercise programs.
• Instruct clients on proper exercise techniques and equipment usage.
• Monitor client progress and adjust training plans as needed.
• Provide motivation, encouragement, and education to support healthy lifestyle choices.
• Maintain a safe workout environment by following established safety procedures.
• Ensure fitness equipment is clean, organized, and in good working condition.
• Maintain accurate client records, progress notes, and training schedules.
• Promote personal training services and assist with member engagement and retention.
• Respond appropriately to emergencies and complete incident reports when necessary.
• Attend staff meetings, training, and continuing education opportunities.

Your Impact

As a Personal Trainer, you will:

• Lead engaging, research-based fitness classes that enhance physical health, emotional well-being, and social interaction.
• Facilitate a welcoming environment that promotes safety, independence, and participation.
• Work collaboratively with City staff and utilize department resources for program success.
• Support Alexandria’s community by expanding access to high-quality wellness programming.

About the Department

The Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities (RPCA) enriches the lives of Alexandria residents through diverse programming, well-maintained public spaces, and inclusive cultural activities. RPCA is nationally accredited by the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA), having met 155 rigorous best-practice standards in the industry.

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Current nationally recognized Personal Trainer certification (ACE, NASM, ACSM, NSCA, or equivalent).
• Current CPR/AED and First Aid certifications.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to motivate and work with individuals of varying fitness levels.
• Knowledge of exercise science, fitness programming, and injury prevention.

Current certification in a nationally recognized fitness or wellness discipline. Two (2) or more years of experience instructing older adult group fitness or wellness programs. CPR and First Aid certification. Knowledge of fitness assessment techniques, program modifications, and evidence-based health practices

This position requires successful completion of a criminal records background check and drug screening prior to employment.