Strength and Conditioning Internship

The Kettle Moraine YMCA is seeking 2-3 highly motivated internship candidates for the Summer of 2026. Individuals will gain knowledge and experience in a Sports Performance setting with a variety of ages and skillsets. Intern candidates must be currently pursuing bachelor’s or master’s degree in exercise science, sport management, or related field.

POSITION SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the Strength and Conditioning Coach, the Strength and Conditioning Intern is responsible for assisting in individual and team training for Kettle Moraine YMCA members, participants, and youth. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

With direct mentorship and supervision from the Strength and Conditioning Coordinator, interns will:

1. Assist with strength and conditioning sessions for large groups of high school athletes (setup, flow, coaching support).
2. Support youth sessions emphasizing movement quality, fundamentals, and safe progression.
3. Assist with older adult / elderly functional fitness sessions (balance, strength, mobility, and confidence).
4. Support adult wellness programming (health, fitness, and behavior consistency).
5. Observe and apply exercise coaching fundamentals (technique instruction, cueing, regression/progression selection, safety scanning).
6. Support facility professionalism, including equipment organization and upkeep as needed.
7. Builds and maintains effective, positive relationships with the members, participants, volunteers, other staff, and the communities we serve.
8. Ensures safety of all members, guests and staff within the guidelines of the Kettle Moraine YMCA and the Healthy Living Department.
9. Adhere to the Code of Conduct and policies within the Child Abuse Prevention handbook.
10. Performs other duties as assigned.

YMCA COMPETENCIES (Leader):

Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Ys values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fund-raising.

Collaboration: Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view, and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others.

Operational Effectiveness: Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience. Establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work, and actively participates in meetings. Follows budgeting policies and procedures, and reports all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members.

Personal Growth: Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change, and seeks opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths, and limitations and how they impact relationships. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Currently pursuing bachelor’s or master’s degree in exercise science, sport management, or related field
2. Candidates should be actively working towards obtaining CSCS (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist) or TSAC (Tactical Strength and Conditioning Coach) certification.
3. Certified in CPR/First Aid, or ability to obtain within 60 days
4. Demonstrated professionalism, a strong work ethic, high attention to detail, and a passion for sports performance coaching are essential qualities. A strong desire to become a Sports Performance Coach
5. The ability to relate to and engage with diverse groups of people.
6. Strong interpersonal and communication skills and an interest and ability in working with individuals of all fitness levels. 
7. Majority of this position is done in person and on-site at YMCA branches
8. Must possess a valid driver’s license.

CERTIFICATIONS:

1. Bloodborne Pathogens/Child Abuse Prevention every year

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

1. While performing the duties of this job the employee is required to: bend, stoop, kneel, twist, reach, stand, lift up to 50lbs, grasp, perform repetitive motions.
2. 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.
3. Reasonable accommodation may be made to be able to perform essential functions of the position.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER: THE YMCA WELCOMES A DIVERSE WORKFORCE

The Y: We’re for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility