POSITION SUMMARY: Under the guidance of the Fitness Coordinator, the Group Exercise Instructor teaches group classes in a safe, enjoyable, and positive environment that welcomes people of all skill and fitness levels. The Group Exercise Instructor builds community within the class and modifies class as needed to meet varied health, ability and cultural needs. This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Leads energizing, fun, safe, and educational group classes, as directed by the supervisor, to accomplish the YMCA mission and goals. Asks and answers questions from program participants and members to support them in achieving their goals related to health and well-being. Maintains working knowledge of wellness and trends to provide effective information and support to members. Builds effective, authentic relationships with members; helps members and program participants connect with each other and the YMCA. Observes and adjusts approach to support all participants’ capabilities, physical conditions, health, and culture. Celebrates achievement of program participants related to program or personal goals, mastering of specific skills or overall health and well-being. Keeps accurate class attendance records. Follows YMCA policies and procedures; responds to emergency situations. Performs other duties as assigned. QUALIFICATIONS: Required certifications: CPR, First Aid, AED, national certification (ACE, NETA, AFAA, NASM) in group fitness instruction or YMCA Foundations of Group Exercise certification. Certification in areas of expertise. YMCA Healthy Lifestyles certification within 60 days of hire. The ability to communicate verbally to individuals and small groups At least one year of experience teaching group wellness classes preferred. YMCA COMPETENCIES: Accepts and demonstrates the Ys values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fund-raising. 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. 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. 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. WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.