POSITION SUMMARY:  

The Ninja Zone Instructor is responsible for leading high-energy, safe, and engaging Ninja Zone practices that combine the four key elements of gymnastics, tricking, parkour, and warrior freestyle movement. Instructors create a fun and structured environment that promotes confidence, discipline, coordination, and skill development in children. This position requires strong teaching/coaching skills, the ability to motivate and encourage youth, with a commitment to ensuring participant safety and positive behavior. 

OUR CULTURE: 

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. It’s who we are, who we aspire to be and how we show up every day. We are cause driven. We don’t just show up, we show up with purpose. 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: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger, beginning with you. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 

1. Embody the Ninja Zone Mantra and Creed 

1. Lead and coach Ninja Zone practices using the provided curriculum and lesson plans. 

1. Demonstrate and teach skills in agility, strength, coordination, and discipline. 

1. Provide positive reinforcement and clear instruction to help kids grow. 

1. Set up and take down obstacle courses and equipment before and after classes. 

1. Effective and continuous communication with parents about student progress and class updates 

1. Maintain a clean and organized Ninja gym 

1. Attend staff meetings and ongoing training sessions 

1. Maintain records as required (ex: attendance, progress reports, etc.) 

1. Build relationships with students and parents in order to help them connect with each other and the YMCA as a whole. 

1. Follow all YMCA policies, rules, regulations and procedures, including emergency and safety procedures. 

1. Complete incident and accident reports as necessary.  

1. Perform other duties as assigned. 

1. Previous experience with teaching/coaching gymnastics, parkour, tumbling, martial arts, dance, free-running, or cheer is preferred. 

1. High energy, patience, and confidence while instructing/coaching children of various age groups. 

1. Minimum of 1 year experience teaching/leading/coaching recreational or educational programs. 

1. Complete CPR PRO/AED/FA and Emergency Action Plan training within 6 months of hire. 

1. Must be at least 18 years of age 

SKILLS and ABILITIES:  

1. Exhibit the core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility in all aspects of their work within the YMCA. 

1. Ability to instruct and observe participants and work independently 

1. A basic knowledge of a variety of sports.   

1. Understanding and comprehensive knowledge of youth sports curriculum and lesson plans. 

1. Must possess skills in planning, leadership, and youth supervision. 

1. Skills in customer service and program execution. 

1. High energy, creativity, initiative, flexibility, eagerness to seek out and involve others and genuine concern for participants are essential. 

1. Ability to coach/teach kids of varying abilities. 

1. Ability to effectively communicate with parents and participants, youth, staff and leadership team. 

1. Ability to work flexible hours that include daytime, evening and/or weekend shifts. 

1. Knowledge or background spotting skills and tricks. 

1. Ability to lift up to 85 pounds 

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:  

1. Adhere to policies related to boundaries with children. 

2. Adhere to procedures related to managing high-risk activities and supervising children. 

3. Report suspicious or inappropriate behaviors and policy violations 

4. Follow mandated abuse reporting requirements.