Aquafit Instructor (Group Fitness Instructor) at City of Richmond (BC)

Aquafit Instructor (Group Fitness Instructor) The City of Richmond is committed to be the most appealing, livable, well-managed community in Canada, a vision that is only made possible by developing our most valuable asset – our people. This is a great opportunity to join our team and shape our community. The City of Richmond offers competitive pay programs, comprehensive benefits and attractive incentives.

Overview This position plans and leads aquatic group fitness classes for community members in accordance with their assigned class format(s). The incumbent provides instruction for a variety of fitness classes to diverse clientele, responds to incidents, first aid emergencies and patrons' inquiries, promotes interest and participation in fitness activities, and ensures that class participants are abiding by the facility's conduct and etiquette standards. While most duties are performed within established program guidelines, some independent action and initiative will be needed, provided said actions fall within the limits of applicable policies and procedures, referring any difficult or unusual problems to a Supervisor.

Examples of key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Designs, modifies and leads drop‑in and registered aquatic group fitness exercise classes for individuals of varying levels of ability.
• Demonstrates proper form and techniques using clear instructions.
• Develops and offers adaptations to accommodate individuals with specific fitness levels.
• Acts as a resource referring to inquiries that fall outside their scope of practice to the appropriate health and fitness professional.
• Aids in the promotion and delivery of fitness programs and community wellness events.
• Demonstrates proper form and techniques using clear instructions; develops and offers adaptations to accommodate specific fitness levels and to improve technique; ensures the safety of patrons enrolled in registered or drop‑in aquatic group fitness programs at the facility.
• Provides mentorship and coaching to newly certified instructors.
• Accurately records fitness class metrics including attendance.
• Attends team meetings, continuing education sessions, and fitness team engagement events as requested.
• Recommends purchase of supplies or equipment to their Supervisor.
• Ensures the proper set up and secure storage of equipment for aquatic group fitness classes.
• Responds to client/participant questions and concerns in a timely manner.
• Reports malfunctions, damaged equipment, or safety issues to their supervisor as required.
• Enforces general rules of conduct, including facility guidelines, relevant city and departmental policies and procedures, etiquette, and proper attire.
• Maintains control and discipline of unruly patrons as required.
• Performs administrative duties.
• Arranges for substitute instructor from approved lists.
• Provides First‑Aid treatment within their scope of practice, treats minor injuries, makes necessary arrangements for treatment for major injuries, and completes first aid/incident report forms; notifies Supervisor as required.
• Performs other duties as required, which may vary according to the facility.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Sound knowledge of the principles, practices, and objectives of aquatic group fitness instruction.
• Ability to provide, select, and incorporate music appropriately to enhance class.
• Sound knowledge of current anatomy, physiology, exercise science, and methods of practice.
• Sound knowledge of applicable policies, safety regulations and rules governing the work performed.
• Sound knowledge of current industry standards and methods of practice as it applies to the work performed.
• Sound knowledge of various aquatic group fitness programs, formats, teaching techniques and equipment use.
• Ability to plan, develop, design and deliver aquatic group fitness exercise classes to a diverse clientele of varying abilities and ages.
• Ability to manage group dynamics and deal tactfully and diplomatically with a variety of patrons and colleagues.
• Ability to prepare and maintain payroll records.
• Ability to demonstrate leadership and professionalism, utilizing a variety of communication techniques to motivate and build connections with clientele.
• Must possess the physical capabilities and stamina to carry out the duties of the position.
• Must keep all applicable certifications and registrations in good standing.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Completion of high school diploma (Grade 12 or equivalent).
• Previous work or volunteer experience in a customer‑service oriented position.
• Applicable certification program in community recreation or sports sciences.
• Completion of BCRPA Aquatic Fitness designation or equivalent.
• Valid Emergency First Aid Certificate from a recognized provider as listed on the BCRPA site (must maintain throughout employment).
• Valid CPR Level C and AED Certification from a recognized provider as listed on the BCRPA site (must maintain throughout employment).
• Ability to successfully clear a Police Information Check.

Preferred Qualifications and Experience:

• Post‑secondary education in a related field such as Human Kinetics or Kinesiology.
• Six (6) months of related experience working as a aquatic group fitness instructor, preferably in a fitness and aquatic facility and providing mentorship to upcoming aquatic group fitness instructors.
• Additional BCRPA Registration (Weight Training, Personal Training, Yoga, Pilates, Older Adult etc.) or other fitness certification (Indoor Cycling, Zumba etc.)
• Knowledge of second language is an asset.

Working Conditions:

Duties are performed in a busy environment. May encounter a variety of customers and/or challenging situations. May be required to move equipment for set‑up and take‑down as required for classes and programs.

Additional Information:

Employee Group: CUPE Local 718 Position Status: Auxiliary Duration of Appointment: N/A Salary Range: $36.69/hr - $43.13/hr Hours of Work: These are auxiliary positions that will involve variable hours. Flexibility and willingness to work a variety of shifts including days, evenings and weekends is required.