Specialized Personal Trainer at The Kennedy Collective Inc – Orange, Connecticut

Specialized Personal Trainer — Autism Health & Fitness Center (AHFC)

Reports to: General Manager, AHFC

Location: 307 Racebrook Road, Orange CT

Schedule:
Saturdays 9:00am-2:30pm

Per diem/additional hours available

Why this role matters

As a Specialized Personal Trainer at the Autism Health & Fitness Center, you’ll deliver individualized, skill-building fitness sessions for members with autism and related support needs. Your work helps members strengthen their bodies, build confidence, and experience belonging—through safe, engaging movement tailored to who they are.

What you’ll do

• Create a welcoming, inclusive, high-energy environment where members feel safe, respected, and motivated
• Deliver 1:1 and/or small-group sessions by implementing Individual Fitness Plans (IFPs) and adjusting in real time based on ability, sensory needs, and progress
• Coach with clear cues and positive reinforcement; demonstrate proper form and fitness technique
• Keep sessions safe, structured, and fun, using strong situational awareness and sound judgment
• Apply appropriate behavior support strategies to encourage participation and manage challenges calmly and professionally
• Track participation and progress using center technology/tools; document accurately and on time
• Communicate updates, concerns, and meaningful wins to the GM
• Provide timely, professional feedback to parents/caregivers to support continuity and trust
• Support safe transitions into and out of training sessions in coordination with colleagues

What success looks like

• Members consistently feel supported and engaged—and want to come back
• IFPs are executed consistently and adapted thoughtfully to drive progress
• Documentation is timely, accurate, and useful for the team and families
• Safety is never compromised; concerns are escalated early and appropriately
• Families/caregivers feel informed and confident in the program

What we’re looking for

• Experience working with individuals with special needs (professional, volunteer, coaching, or program experience)
• Athletic training or performance/conditioning background
• Ability to build rapport quickly and communicate clearly with members and caregivers
• Comfort modifying exercises for different ability and fitness levels
• Current certification or willingness to obtain:
• ISSA or NASM Personal Trainer Certification
• CPR Certification
• PMT Certification

Physical requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs

About The Kennedy Collective
For more than 75 years, The Kennedy Collective has created opportunities and inclusion for people with disabilities across Connecticut. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcome applicants of all backgrounds, abilities, and identities.