Aqua Fitness Instructor
Grand Traverse Bay YMCAAbout the role
Description
- We are looking for a certified Aquatic Fitness Instructor to join our team of passionate individuals dedicated to providing energizing, fun, safe and educational aqua fitness classes.
- Join our team of like minded individuals and put your passion to purpose today!
- Employee benefits include: free membership, eligibility for CEU reimbursement, friendships and more!
OUR CULTURE:
Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. At the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: We are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: We value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: We believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: We support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: We are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger, beginning with you.
Requirements
Job Title: Aqua Fitness Instructor
Reports to: Senior Director of Health & Wellness and Central Y Operations
Department: Health and Wellness
Classification: Part-time, Non-Exempt
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Aqua Fitness Instructor is responsible for leading, instructing, and motivating individuals and groups in aquatic exercise activities to deliver high-quality programming and exceptional member experiences. The instructor ensures all YMCA safety policies and aquatic guidelines are followed and enforced. This role actively builds relationships by learning and using names, engaging participants, and fostering positive connections with staff, members, and program participants.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Lead engaging, safe, and educational Aqua Fitness classes in alignment with YMCA mission, values, and program standards
- Create a fun, inclusive, and motivating class environment that encourages participant engagement and consistency
- Provide guidance, encouragement, and respond to participant questions to support individual health and well-being goals
- Maintain a working knowledge of aquatic fitness and wellness trends to deliver effective, relevant instruction
- Build authentic, positive relationships with members and program participants, fostering connection to each other and the YMCA
- Observe participants and adapt instruction to accommodate varying abilities, physical conditions, health considerations, and cultural backgrounds
- Ensure participant safety by monitoring class conditions and following all YMCA aquatic and safety protocols
- Accurately track and submit class attendance and required program documentation
- Perform other related duties as assigned by the supervisor
QUALIFICATIONS
- High school degree or equivalent and at least 18 years of age
- National certification required in Aqua Fitness Instruction (ASFA, AEA, ISFTA, IFTA, IFA, WIM, SCW)
- A minimum of 1 year of YMCA or Group/Water Fitness experience
- Strong communication skills and the ability to relate well to the public
- Must be receptive to training/learning and willing to grow in the position
- Exceptional customer service and delivery skills
- Current certification in CPR, First-Aid and AED
- Possess and demonstrate a strong understanding of the YMCA and its purpose, mission and values
WORKING CONDITIONS:
- Hot, humid environment
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
- Flexible work hours as needed
CORE COMPETENCIES:
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 fi
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