Fitness Tainer (Contracted Position)

Make a difference in the lives of New York City’s older adults, their families and the community. For over 60 years PSS has performed vital and important work -- through its ten senior centers, caregiver services and affiliated programs, the agency touches the lives of over 2,000 people a day. The Fitness Trainer is responsible for planning and leading safe, engaging, and evidence-based fitness programs that promote strength, balance, flexibility, mobility, and overall wellness for older adults. This position provides instruction in a supportive and inclusive environment, encourages healthy aging, and collaborates with PSS staff to enhance participants' physical well-being, independence, and quality of life.

This position reports to the Senior Director of Community Social Services

RESPONSIBILITES:

• Plan, develop, and facilitate safe, engaging, and age-appropriate fitness classes designed to meet the needs of older adults with varying levels of physical ability.
• Lead individual and group exercise sessions utilizing fitness equipment, resistance training, free weights, and other appropriate exercise modalities available within the on-site fitness center.
• Instruct participants in proper exercise techniques while emphasizing safety, injury prevention, and appropriate use of equipment.
• Modify exercises and provide individualized adaptations to accommodate participants' functional abilities, chronic health conditions, and physical limitations.
• Lead strength, balance, flexibility, mobility, and fall-prevention exercises that support healthy aging and increased independence.
• Monitor participants during exercise sessions and respond appropriately to health or safety concerns in accordance with agency policies and emergency procedures.
• Collaborate effectively with PSS staff to coordinate programming, identify participant needs, and support resident wellness goals.
• Foster a welcoming, respectful, and motivating environment that encourages regular participation, social engagement, and healthy lifestyle choices.
• Provide brief, non-clinical individual coaching before or after classes to reinforce wellness education, answer participant questions, and encourage healthy behaviors.
• Deliver instruction bilingually (English and Spanish or other designated language), including exercise demonstrations, participant education, and group discussions.
• Adapt instructional methods and communication styles to meet varying literacy levels, language proficiency, cognitive abilities, and cultural backgrounds.
• Maintain accurate attendance records and complete all required program documentation, including participant assessments, satisfaction surveys, and outcome measures in accordance with agency and funder requirements.
• Maintain exercise equipment and immediately report unsafe conditions, damaged equipment, or participant safety concerns.
• Participate in staff meetings, required trainings, professional development opportunities, and agency events.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
  

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Physical Education, Health Education, Public Health, Gerontology, Recreation, or a related field preferred; equivalent education and experience will be considered.
• Nationally recognized Fitness Instructor or Personal Trainer certification preferred (ACE, NASM, ACSM, AFAA, NSCA, SilverSneakers®, or equivalent).
• Minimum of one (1) to two (2) years of experience leading group fitness or wellness programs, preferably serving older adults.
• Experience working in community-based organizations, older adult centers, affordable housing communities, healthcare settings, or nonprofit organizations preferred.
• Fluency in English and Spanish (or another designated language) required, including the ability to speak, read, and write professionally in both languages.
• Demonstrated knowledge of exercise programming for older adults, including fall prevention, chronic disease management, balance training, and functional fitness.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, presentation, and group facilitation skills.
• Demonstrated cultural competence and ability to work respectfully with diverse populations, including low-income older adults, immigrants, and individuals with varying educational backgrounds.
• Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office applications, email, spreadsheets, electronic documentation systems, and virtual meeting platforms such as Zoom.
• Current CPR, AED, and First Aid certifications required and must be maintained throughout employment.
  

PROFESSIONALISM AND OTHER QUALITIES:

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, squat, and demonstrate exercises for extended periods.
• Ability to safely lift, carry, and move fitness equipment and program materials weighing up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to demonstrate proper exercise techniques using resistance equipment, free weights, mats, and other fitness equipment.
• Ability to respond quickly during participant emergencies or safety incidents.
• Ability to maintain a flexible schedule, including occasional evening or special event programming.
  

EEOC and DEI Statement:

At PSS we are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other legally protected status. We value diversity and strive to create an inclusive and respectful workplace where all individuals are welcomed, supported, and given the opportunity to thrive.

EOE M/F/D/V