Fitness Specialist (Full Time)

**The Village at Orchard Ridge – Where Fitness Specialists Inspire Well-Being and Community!** **Job Type:** Full Time**Shift:** Day **Pay range:** $22.00–$28.50 *per hour, commensurate with experience and relevant skills in comparable roles.* At The Village at Orchard Ridge, wellness is at the heart of our vibrant community. We believe every resident deserves opportunities to move, thrive, and feel connected. As a Fitness Specialist, you’ll play a vital role in shaping joyful, engaging wellness experiences that uplift mind, body, and spirit. **Why You’ll Love Working with Us** - Make Every Movement Count: Inspire residents to achieve their personal fitness and wellness goals through creative and meaningful programs. - Aquatics-Plus Opportunity: While not required to be an Aquatics Specialist, candidates with aquatic experience or a strong interest in learning Aquatics are highly valued. We prioritize group exercise leadership with comfort in pool environments and knowledge of chemical balancing as a priority. - Supportive Team Atmosphere: Collaborate with welcoming team members who share your passion for holistic well-being and service excellence. - Positive Impact: Your encouragement and expertise help foster a healthy, inclusive community. - Opportunities for Growth: Access ongoing education, training, and professional development as part of the NLCS commitment to continuous learning. - Work-Life Balance: We prioritize work/life balance and realistic expectations, fostering a laid-back, steady work environment with ample opportunities to serve residents through the seven dimensions of wellness. **What You’ll Do** - Welcome and motivate residents and guests, fostering a supportive fitness environment. - Plan and lead engaging group classes and one-on-one fitness sessions tailored to our residents’ interests and abilities. - Assist in developing and implementing all aquatic programs, including providing basic and advanced water exercise instruction. - Serve as a back-up lifeguard and Certified Pool Operator (CPO), contributing to aquatics program safety and excellence. - Ensure all functions of the pool are operating in accordance with established policies and procedures, including water chemistry, climate control, cleanliness, and related maintenance. - Monitor and maintain compliance with all applicable local, state, and national water, environmental, health, and safety standards, ensuring the pool remains current on all required certifications for operation. - Report any discrepancies or concerns immediately to the Wellness Program Manager, Facilities Director, and/or other appropriate staff. - Assist with preventative maintenance of pool areas and equipment. - Supervise the Fitness Center, educate residents on equipment use, and ensure a safe, clean environment at all times. - Collaborate with colleagues in Connected Living and other departments to deliver high-quality wellness programs and special events. - Track participation, maintain records, and assist with membership and administrative tasks. - Promote participation through outreach and wellness incentives. - Respond swiftly and professionally to emergencies, following all established protocols. - Maintain current Lifeguard and CPO certifications. - Uphold National Lutheran’s philosophy, modeling compassion, teamwork, and excellent service every day. **What We’re Looking For** - **Education:** High school diploma required; associate or bachelor’s degree preferred. - **Certifications:** First Aid/CPR/AED, Certified Pool Operator (CPO), Lifeguard, plus relevant national fitness certifications (group exercise and/or personal training). Aquatics experience or a strong willingness to learn and grow in Aquatics is a priority. - **Experience:** Prior group fitness leadership; experience working with seniors a plus. - **Skills & Attributes:** Energetic, creative, organized, reliable, and able to motivate individuals and groups. Comfortable with technology and recordkeeping…