Martial Arts Instructor I (Ridgewood YMCA)

The Martial Arts Instructor will work with children/teens to promote the enjoyment of martial arts.
Job Description

The YMCA of Greater New York is here for all New Yorkers — to empower youth, improve health, and strengthen community. Founded in 1852, today the Y serves a diverse population of more than half a million New Yorkers who learn, grow, and thrive through programs and services at our 24 branches. Community is the cornerstone of the Y. Together, we connect active, engaged New Yorkers to build stronger communities.

To help fulfill our mission, we cultivate a culture of learning, leading, and collaboration to enhance community impact. Through our talented staff and “LEAP” career framework (Leadership, Empowerment, Accountability, Personal Growth), we are committed to a people-first approach that fosters trust, inclusion, growth, and development for all. 

The Ridgewood YMCA is seeking a Martial Arts Instructor who will be responsible for working with children/teens to promote the enjoyment of martial arts while improving physical competence, developing confidence, and teaching basic skill development.  The overall major functions of the Martial Arts Instructor also include:

  • Provide a fun, safe, and positive experience for all participants. 
  • Demonstrate strong service and hospitality with all constituents, including, but not limited to, program participants and parents/guardians.
  • Create an all-inclusive and supportive learning environment.
  • Teach progressive lessons and provide opportunities to demonstrate learned skills.
  • Encourage a lifetime participation in sports and physical activity.
  • Embody the YMCA Core Values.
Qualifications
  • High School diploma or equivalent required.
  • Minimum of one (1) year of experience teaching children/teens martial arts in a structured setting.
  • Must be able to provide a martial arts instructor certification by a recognized body beyond belt rank and ability.
  • Current Child Abuse Prevention certificate.
  • Current First Aid/CPR certifications.
  • Must attend the YMCA Coaching 101 Training within ninety (90) days of hire.
  • Must receive the CDC HEADS UP Concussion in Youth Sports certificate within thirty (30) days of hire.
  • Knowledge of youth development stages.
  • Content expert in designated martial arts.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with members of all ages.
Essential Functions
  • Work with the supervisor to develop program objectives and goals for each program session.
  • As needed, create a written lesson plan for the program session that is age-appropriate and progressive.   
  • Provide supervision of the participants in line with YMCA program standards and guidelines (i.e., ratio, attendance).
  • Be able to modify lesson plans and instruction to meet the needs of the participants.
  • Communicate with parents/guardians regarding the progress of their child/teen and registration for the next session.
  • Communicate to parents/guardians about additional YMCA opportunities that can benefit them or their child/teen.
  • Create an environment that is encouraging to all participants regardless of skill level.
  • Inform the Manager on Duty (MOD) regarding any incident reports that need to be filled out.
  • Have a thorough knowledge of branch emergency procedures and take appropriate actions in emergency situations.
  • Actively participate in designated meetings, training sessions, and special events.
  • Record accurate attendance for all classes.
  • Ensure the cleanliness of the program space during all activities.
  • Work with the Supervisor to develop and lead program promotion and recruitment efforts.