Specialty Class Instructors - Sports, Arts, Music, STEAM & More

Description

Job Title: Specialty Class Instructor

THIS POSITION BEGINS SEPTEMBER 2026

FLSA Status: Non-exempt

Job Grade: Part-Time

Reports to: Program Director

Revision Date: 06/11/2026

Leadership Level:

Primary Function/Department: Youth & Family

Position Summary

The Specialty Class Instructor supports a variety of youth and adult programs within their specified specialty area including, but not limited to adult and youth fitness, arts & humanities, or specialty programs.. This role focuses on creating a positive, inclusive, and engaging environment where children and adults can explore, learn, and express themselves in a safe environment. The instructor works collaboratively with program leadership to deliver safe, structured, and developmentally appropriate activities. The Specialty Instructor inspires participants of all ages by sharing their unique passion and expertise in a structured, welcoming environment. Whether teaching youth tumbling, adult martial arts, creative arts, or specialized sports, the instructor designs and delivers engaging lesson plans that cater to diverse skill levels. They focus on skill development, safety, and building confidence while actively fostering a sense of community and belonging among participants. By reinforcing the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility, the instructor ensures a positive, inclusive experience that encourages healthy living and personal growth for every individual. 

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The Arts & Humanities Specialty Instructor at the YMCA of the Greater Tri-Valley maintains a supportive, positive atmosphere that welcomes and respects all individuals, promotes the potential of all youth, and provides a quality experience to both youth and their families.

OUR CULTURE:
Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intention every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger, beginning with you.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities

• Plan lessons: Design structured, progressive activities for varying skill levels.
• Deliver instruction: Teach technical skills in arts, sports, or specialized disciplines.
• Ensure safety: Maintain a secure environment and proper equipment usage.
• Engage participants: Build positive relationships with youth, adults, and families.
• Model values: Demonstrate the YMCA core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
• Manage logistics: Set up and clean up class spaces and equipment daily.
• Track attendance: Maintain accurate rosters and participant records for every session.
• Communicate effectively: Share updates and progress with parents and supervisors regularly.
• Monitor progress: Provide constructive feedback to help participants grow safely.
• Enforce policies: Follow all organizational safety, emergency, and child protection guidelines.

Qualifications

• Expertise: Demonstrated proficiency in a specialty field like sports, arts, music, STEAM and other fields.
• Experience: Minimum one year of experience teaching or coaching youth or adults.
• Certifications: Current CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications, or willingness to obtain them.
• Child Safety: Ability to pass a comprehensive background check and child abuse prevention training.
• Communication: Strong verbal skills to explain technical concepts to diverse age groups.
• Adaptability: Skill in modifying lessons for different abilities, fitness levels, and learning styles.
• YMCA Alignment: Deep commitment to the mission and core values of the YMCA.
• Availability: Flexibility to work varied hours, including evenings or weekend mornings. 
• Physical Ability: Capacity to demonstrate movements, lift equipment, and remain active during class.

Core Competencies

• Creativity & Flexibility: Able to adjust activities and think on your feet.
• Youth Engagement: Builds trust and keeps kids motivated and involved.
• Team Collaboration: Works well with staff across departments.
• Safety Awareness: Maintains a secure, supervised environment at all times.
• Mission-Driven Mindset: Supports the YMCA’s commitment to youth development and community impact.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Ability to plan, lead, and participate in program activities in a variety of indoor and/or outdoor settings.