Fitness Instructor – Part-Time (On Site) at YMCA of the Lowcountry – Ridgeland, South Carolina

Salary: Minimum $20.00 - Maximum $25.50

Type: Part-Time – Non-Exempt

Schedule: Up to 30 hours per week (Flexible Schedule)

Reports to: Wellness Director

Organization Overview

At the YMCA of the Lowcountry, we are more than an organization — we are a cause. Together, we strengthen our community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Our staff are at the heart of this mission, creating safe, welcoming environments where children grow, families thrive, and everyone feels a sense of belonging.

Department Overview

The Wellness Department plays a pivotal role in advancing the YMCA’s mission of healthy living by creating inclusive, safe, and engaging environments that support physical well-being for members of all ages and abilities. Through fitness centers, group exercise classes, personal training, and community health initiatives, the department fosters lifelong wellness habits.

Benefits You’ll Receive

• Complimentary YMCA Membership for Part-Time employees. An additional adult family member may be added for $20 per month.
• Participation in the National YMCA Retirement Fund, a defined contribution plan. Employees become eligible for a 12% employer contribution after completing 1,000 hours of service in each of two 12-month periods (doesn’t have to be consecutive).
• All staff are eligible to make voluntary 403(b) retirement contributions (no employer match).
• Discounts on YMCA Programs (Immediate Family)
• 50% discount for staff working 20 or more hours per pay period
• 25% discount for staff working 10–19 hours per pay period
• 15% discount for staff working fewer than 10 hours per pay period

What You’ll Do

Class Preparation and Instruction

• Arrive at the YMCA branch in a timely manner to clock or sign in and prepare for class instruction.
• Begin and end all classes on time.
• Prepare and deliver assigned classes by establishing and communicating the class format and design.
• Ensure all equipment and music are appropriate for the class type and participant ability level.
• Structure each class to include a warm-up, main workout segment, and cool-down/stretch.
• Maintain class engagement by incorporating new music, exercises, and movement patterns.

Member Engagement

• Create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all members and participants.
• Act as an ambassador for the YMCA by learning members’ names and building relationships.
• Speak positively about fellow instructors and the YMCA group exercise program.
• Recommend classes to members based on their goals, interests, and ability levels.

Safety and Compliance

• Know YMCA emergency procedures and the location of First Aid and AED equipment.
• Monitor participant safety and provide modifications when necessary.
• Report all incidents or injuries.

Facility and Equipment Care

• Ensure the class area is left clean and orderly after each class.
• Return equipment to proper storage areas.
• Turn off equipment when not in use.
• Clean and sanitize equipment including exercise mats and bikes.

Team Collaboration

• Work cooperatively with supervisors and fellow instructors as part of the wellness team.
• Provide class substitutions when available.
• Support YMCA wellness initiatives and programming.

Abuse Risk Management and Youth Protection

• Adhere to all YMCA policies related to professional boundaries with participants.
• Complete required abuse risk management training.
• Follow procedures for supervising participants and managing high-risk activities.
• Comply with mandated reporting requirements.
• Adhere to all job-specific abuse risk management responsibilities.

What We’re Looking For

• Must hold a current certification from a nationally recognized organization, such as:
• ACE (American Council on Exercise)
• AFAA (Athletics and Fitness Association of America)
• ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine)
• NETA (National Exercise Trainers Association)
• Instructors teaching specialty formats such as Cycle, Pilates, Yoga, Zumba, or similar programs must hold a current specialty certification.

Required Certifications

• CPR/First Aid/AED
• Child Abuse Prevention Training

The YMCA of the Lowcountry is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position. Applicants requiring accommodation during the application or interview process should contact Human Resources.