What are the responsibilities and job description for the Instructor, Ninja Zone position at YMCA of Metropolitan Denver?
SCHEDULE - Evenings between 4pm-8pm and Saturdays between 10am-3pm
Are you part coach, part cheerleader, and part obstacle-course ninja? Do you believe every kid deserves to feel strong, confident, and unstoppable?
At the YMCA, we’re looking for a Ninja Zone Instructor who brings energy, creativity, and a passion for youth development to every class.
What You’ll Do:
- Lead high-energy Ninja Zone classes that build strength, agility, and confidence
- Create a fun, inclusive environment where every participant feels they belong
- Teach obstacle course techniques, movement skills, and safe progression
- Encourage teamwork, resilience, and positive sportsmanship
- Keep safety top of mind while making every class an adventure
What You Bring:
- Enthusiasm for working with youth of all abilities
- Background in gymnastics, parkour, martial arts, or fitness (preferred, not required)
- Strong communication and leadership skills
- A positive, can-do attitude and team spirit
- Commitment to YMCA values: Caring, Honesty, Respect, Responsibility
Why You’ll Love It Here:
- You get to make a real impact on kids’ confidence and growth
- Supportive team environment that feels like family
- Opportunities for training and professional development
- Flexible scheduling options
Bonus Points If You:
- Can demonstrate or teach basic ninja/obstacle skills
- Have experience leading group classes or camps
- Love turning challenges into fun, engaging activities
POSITION SUMMARY
Instructor, NinjaZone working as part of the YMCA Experience team, will deliver world-class customer service and relationship building skills to create a welcoming environment at the YMCA. The individual will provide a high level of interaction with all participants in center programs and deliver a high level of quality within all programs administered. The incumbent will also exhibit the core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility in all aspects of their work with the YMCA.
OUR PATH
For 150 years, the YMCA of Metro Denver has been more than a place - it is a movement that lifts spirit, mind and body for all. Our direction is clear: Elevate Lives and Rise Together. Grounded by our mission and strengthened by the global YMCA movement we will elevate our people, purpose, partnerships and promise.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Plan and lead engaging Ninja Zone classes that support youth development and skill progression
- Demonstrate and coach obstacle-based movements (e.g., climbing, jumping, balancing, swinging) in a safe and supportive manner
- Actively supervise participants to ensure safety, engagement, and inclusion at all times
- Set up, adjust, and break down equipment for classes and programs
- Provide clear instruction, encouragement, and constructive feedback to participants of varying skill levels
- Enforce YMCA policies and safety protocols, including proper equipment use and emergency procedures
- Build positive relationships with participants, families, and team members
- Maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free program space
- Attend required trainings and staff meetings
WORK ENVIRONMENT
- Primarily conducted in an indoor gym or recreation space with obstacle-course style equipment
- Environment is active, fast-paced, and can be noisy during program hours
- Regular interaction with youth participants, including large group settings
- May include occasional outdoor programming or special events
- Work schedule may include evenings and weekends based on program needs
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
- Ability to actively lead and participate in physical activities for extended periods of time
- Frequent standing, walking, running, jumping, climbing, balancing, and spotting participants
- Ability to lift and move equipment (typically up to 30–50 lbs)
- Use of hands and arms for demonstrating movements and assisting participants
- Ability to visually and audibly monitor participants for safety
- Must be able to respond quickly to emergencies and provide physical assistance if needed
REASONABEL ACCOMODATIONS STATEMENT
The YMCA will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities to enable them to perform the essential functions of the position, in accordance with applicable laws.
DISCLAIMER
The YMCA of Metropolitan Denver reserves the right to modify, add, or remove job duties and responsibilities as business needs evolve.
This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications required for the position.
Employment with the YMCA of Metropolitan Denver is at-will and may be terminated by either the employee or the organization at any time, with or without cause or notice, in accordance with applicable law.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER STATEMENT
The YMCA of Metropolitan Denver is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION & RISK MANAGEMENT
The YMCA is committed to the safety and well-being of all children and vulnerable individuals. As part of our commitment to child abuse prevention and Praesidium accreditation standards, all employees are required to comply with YMCA abuse prevention policies, including screening, training, supervision, and reporting requirements.
Qualifications:QUALIFICATIONS
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Must possess CPR/AED/O2/FA certifications prior to hire and maintain certifications during employment.
- Must be Ninja Zone-certified prior to start date
- Experience working with youth in a structured setting preferred (e.g., camps, sports, childcare, education, or recreation programs)
- Ability to lead groups with energy, clarity, and positivity
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Commitment to YMCA values: Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility
- Ability to pass a background check in accordance with YMCA policies
BENEFITS
- Free individual membership
- Program discounts
- Generous Retirement Contribution Options -Includes company contribution of 10% once eligibility is met
- Employee Assistance Program
- Accrue 1 hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked
- Paid Time off for those scheduled and working 20 per week
Salary : $19