Karate/Taekwondo Expert

Job DetailsLevel: ExperiencedJob Location: New York, NY 10032Position Type: Part TimeSalary Range: $125.00 - $125.00 HourlyAbout the Organization: 

The Police Athletic League (or PAL) is New York City’s largest independent youth development organization. We operate diverse programs from Head Start, Day Car and Universal Pre-K programs; to elementary and middle school after-school programs, summer day camps and summer Playstreets. We run evening teen centers and college readiness programs, as well as youth employment and juvenile justice programs. In its over a century of service, PAL is continuing its evolution and remains a vibrant and vital New York City institution.  

Position Summary: 

The Karate/Taekwondo Expert provides high-quality martial arts instruction to middle and high school–aged adolescents, fostering discipline, confidence, respect, and physical development. This role is designed for a seasoned martial arts professional who can balance technical excellence with youth development, safety, and mentorship. The instructor creates a structured, motivating, and inclusive learning environment that supports both skill progression and positive social-emotional growth. 

Pay & Commitment:  

$125 per hour  

3-hour shifts, 2 days per week 

16 weeks beginning in March  

Key Responsibilities 

Deliver structured Karate and/or Taekwondo instruction appropriate for middle and high school–aged youth 

Design and lead lesson plans that emphasize technique, physical conditioning, discipline, respect, and self-confidence 

Adapt instruction to varying skill levels, learning styles, and physical abilities 

Maintain a safe training environment, ensuring proper warm-ups, conditioning, and injury prevention practices 

Model and reinforce positive behavior, sportsmanship, and mutual respect 

Establish clear expectations and maintain effective classroom and group management 

Monitor student progress and provide constructive feedback 

Collaborate with program staff to align instruction with overall youth development goals 

Ensure compliance with all organizational policies, safety protocols, and child supervision standards 

Maintain accurate attendance and basic program documentation as required 

QualificationsQualifications 

Minimum of 5–7 years of progressive experience teaching Karate, Taekwondo, or closely related martial arts 

Demonstrated experience working with adolescents (ages 11–18) in a structured instructional or coaching setting 

Black Belt (1st Dan or higher) in Karate, Taekwondo, or a recognized equivalent 

Certification from a recognized martial arts governing body or federation (e.g., Kukkiwon, ITF, WKF, ISKF, or comparable) preferred 

Strong knowledge of age-appropriate training techniques and youth development principles 

Proven ability to manage groups, set boundaries, and maintain a respectful learning environment 

Skills & Competencies 

Instructional leadership and mentorship 

Youth engagement and motivation 

Safety awareness and risk management 

Clear communication and adaptability 

Professionalism and reliability 

Work Environment & Physical Requirements:  

This position involves providing martial arts instruction in a group setting. Activities can include demonstrating techniques, moving around the training area, and interacting with students. 

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: 

At the Police Athletic League, we seek people who are talented, creative and passionate to help create a more inclusive city and better futures for our youth. We’re devoted to empowering communities and building the best places to work, and that goes for our own teams too.  

The Police Athletic League is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected characteristic including, but not limited to, an individual’s sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy  

Employment with PAL is contingent upon successful completion of all the Agency’s lawful pre-employment checks, which may include a background check.