Description
Under the direction of Healthy LIving Leadership and in alignment with the Christian mission of the YMCA, the Specialty Trainer – Level 2 is a certified fitness professional responsible for providing personalized instruction in specialized formats (e.g., TRX, Pilates Reformer). Trainers in this role use advanced knowledge and experience to design goal-based programs, deliver results-focused training, and support the development of healthy lifestyles in a welcoming, safe, and motivating environment.
Culture Statement
The culture of the Y is rooted in our Christian mission and core principles. We strive every day to collectively embody our purpose to love, serve and transform lives. Every day we show up to Lead with Love and Serve with Purpose.
We Love unconditionally – showing genuine care and concern for everyone, making each interaction meaningful and personal and ensuring every person feels valued, seen and welcomed. We elevate Hope – promoting optimism by offering encouragement and practical solutions to challenges. We act with Care & Compassion – listening attentively without judgment, responding with empathy, and creating a sense of belonging by uplifting and supporting those around us. We demonstrate Generosity – sharing our time, skills, and resources freely and with joy.
We walk in Grace – showing patience and kindness, even in difficult moments. We ignite Faith – staying grounded in our mission, principles and purpose, inspiring others to trust in what is possible. Demonstrating consistency in our actions, helping others see how their efforts align with a greater purpose. We treasure Honesty – communicating openly and truthfully, admitting mistakes when they occur, and honoring commitments. We honor Humility – leading with a servant's heart by prioritizing the needs of others above our own. We live with Joy – celebrating small and big wins alike, inspiring connection and shared joy. We offer Respect – addressing everyone by name and honoring diverse perspectives and backgrounds. We value Responsibility – performing every task timely with diligence and excellence and holding ourselves accountable by openly evaluating our performance. We engage in Service – going above and beyond in serving others by anticipating needs and delivering exceptional experiences.
Essential Functions
• Design and implement personalized fitness programs in a designated specialty area, integrating
strength, mobility, and functional training principles.
• Teach a minimum of two sessions per week while maintaining safety, professionalism, and engagement.
• Apply coaching expertise to conduct movement assessments, track progress, and adjust program
content accordingly.
• Spot clients safely during exercise and assist with equipment setup or modifications as needed.
• Provide ongoing motivation, technical guidance, and lifestyle support for each client’s health goals.
• Promote specialty services to YMCA members and prospective clients through direct engagement and marketing strategies.
• Accurately track attendance and client progress while completing related administrative tasks.
• Stay current on fitness and wellness trends through workshops, continuing education, and
certifications.
• Represent the YMCA by participating in staff meetings, trainings, and community initiatives (e.g.,
Annual Giving Campaign).
• Maintain a clean, professional appearance and comply with YMCA uniform and conduct guidelines.
Performs other duties and tasks as assigned by leadership.
Required Qualifications
• Completion of a comprehensive training program in a designated specialty (e.g., TRX, Pilates
Reformer) with applicable equipment certifications.
• At least two years of personal training experience (averaging 2+ hours/week), OR a four-year
degree in a health-related field, OR a current Personal Training or Group Exercise certification.
• Completion of all required YMCA of Greater Charlotte trainings by the designated deadlines.
• Strong knowledge of exercise physiology, specialty training techniques, and injury prevention.
• Excellent communication, coaching, and customer service skills.
• Outgoing and motivational personality with the ability to foster strong client relationships.
• Reliable and flexible with availability that includes mornings, evenings, and weekends.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel) and ability to learn YMCA-specific systems.
All YMCA team members are expected to maintain a current and active status for all safety, risk, and
programming certifications defined by the YMCA of Greater Charlotte.
Preferred Qualifications
• Advanced qualifications are required including but not limited to: At least two years of personal
training experience, averaging 2 hours of coaching per week or more, OR a 4 year degree in health or a related field or the equivalent education/experience, OR Personal Training or Group Exercise certification preferred.
Working Conditions
• Ability to teach and coach during varied hours, including early mornings, evenings, and
weekends.
• Ability to stand, walk, kneel, bend, and move for extended periods.
• Must be able to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds.
• Exposure to bodily fluids, exercise equipment, and communicable diseases.
• Visual and auditory ability to respond quickly to emergencies.
• Ability to demonstrate physical exercises and safely “spot” clients.
• Prolonged computer or tablet use for data entry and tracking purposes.
Competencies
1 FUNCTIONAL EXPERTISE: Executes superior technical skills for the role
2 EMOTIONAL MATURITY: Demonstrates ability to understand and manage emotions effectively in
all situations
3 DEVELOPING SELF & OTHERS: Develops self and supports others (e.g., staff, volunteers,
members, program participants), both formally and informally, to achieve their highest potential
4 COMMUNICATION & INFLUENCE: Listens and expresses self effectively and in a way that
engages, inspires, and builds commitment to the Y’s cause
Requirements
New Les Mills Ceremony formats, Strength Clinics, and Pilates Reformer