Water Fitness Instructor

YMCA of Youngstown; Youngstown (OH); On-site; USD 20,664 - 34,440; Part time

Job summary

A community-focused nonprofit organization in Youngstown is looking for a Water Fitness Instructor. The role involves leading group classes aimed at promoting health and wellness while ensuring a safe and supportive environment. Candidates should have experience in teaching wellness classes and be able to connect with participants of various backgrounds. Certifications will be required within the first 30 to 60 days of hiring. This position supports the YMCA's mission of strengthening community through healthy living and personal growth.

Qualifications

• At least one year of experience teaching group wellness classes preferred.
• Required certifications must be completed within the first 30 to 60 days of hire.

Responsibilities

• Leads energizing and fun group classes to achieve YMCA mission.
• Maintains a safe and enjoyable environment for all skill levels.
• Observes participants and modifies classes to meet various needs.

Skills

Teaching group wellness classes

Building relationships

Observing and adjusting to participants' needs

Education

Certification in area(s) of expertise

YMCA Healthy Lifestyles Certification

Job description

Job Title: Water Fitness Instructor FLSA Status: Part Time Hourly/ non-exempt

Reports to: Aquatic Director Revision Date: 4/18/25

POSITION SUMMARY

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Instructs group classes in a safe, enjoyable, and positive environment that welcomes people of all skill and fitness levels. Effectively builds community within the class. Modifies class as needed to meet varied health, ability and cultural needs. Creates a culture of transforming lives through friendship, achievement, and belonging.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Leads energizing, fun, safe, and educational group classes to accomplish the YMCA mission and goals.
2. Asks and answers questions from program participants and members to support them in achieving their goals related to health and well-being.
3. Maintains working knowledge of wellness and trends to provide effective information and support to members.
4. Builds effective, authentic relationships with members; helps members and program participants connect with each other and the YMCA.
5. Observes and adjusts approach to support all participants’ capabilities, physical conditions, health, and culture.
6. Celebrates achievement of program participants related to program or personal goals, mastering of specific skills or overall health and well-being.
7. Starts/ends class on time, has equipment prepared for class, and keeps accurate class attendance records.
8. Follows YMCA policies and procedures; responds to emergency situations including those related to medical and disciplinary situations, child abuse prevention and emergencies.
9. Attend staff meetings and trainings; maintain certifications.
10. Performs other duties as assigned.

YMCA COMPETENCIES (Leader)

• Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Y’s values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fund-raising.
• Collaboration: Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view, and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others.
• Operational Effectiveness: Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience. Establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work and actively participates in meetings. Follows budgeting policies and procedures, and reports all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members.
• Personal Growth: Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change, and seeks opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths and limitations and how they impact relationships. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.

QUALIFICATIONS

1. At least one year of experience teaching group wellness classes preferred.
2. Certification in area(s) of expertise.
3. Required training and certifications within 30 days of hire: New Staff Orientation, Bloodborne Pathogens, Child Abuse Prevention, Sexual Harassment, CPR/AED, First Aid, Oxygen, YMCA Leader certification, as well as national certification (ACE, NETA, AFAA, NASM) in group fitness instruction or YMCA Foundations of Group Exercise certification.
4. YMCA Healthy Lifestyles and YMCA Aquatic Safety Assistant certifications within 60 days of hire.