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Recreational Services

Group Fitness Instructor Positions

To Apply:

Student Applications Student Athletic Service Assistant IV (Student Positions)

Non-Student Applications   Temp Serv Prof SCL-CFC (Non-Student Positions)

Qualified candidates must complete an interview and audition.

Questions? Please email Diane Fine or call (607) 255-0637.

Employer:  Recreational Services

Employer Address: 319 Helen Newman Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853

Employing Department: Cornell Fitness Centers

Physical Work Location(s):  Helen Newman Hall, Teagle Hall, Noyes Community Recreation Center, Appel Commons

Supervisors:  D. Fine & L. Santana

Dates of Employment: Annually, August-May with option to continue through June and July.  Auditions are held September through November, February through June

Rate of Pay:  $20.00-$44.00/hr, based on experience.  Includes membership to Cornell Fitness Centers (must teach minimum of one class per week during schedule period)

Purpose or Role of the Position Within the Organization:

Cornell Fitness Centers seeks dynamic, inclusive, and enthusiastic individuals to lead cardiovascular, strength, mind-body, and cycling classes. Cornell students and Ithaca community members are welcome to apply. 

Please note: Due to university benefits eligibility rules, we are unable to accommodate dual-appointments for current benefits-eligible Cornell faculty or staff. Current temporary staff will be considered on case-by-case basis depending on current position details.

Our Group Fitness Instructors foster supportive, encouraging environments where participants of all fitness levels feel empowered in their movement. While an active fitness certification is required to apply, individuals interested in learning how to become an instructor are encouraged to contact the Group Fitness Program Coordinators for guidance on training pathways prior to applying.

Hiring Process and Timeline:

  • Application & Audition Cycle: Auditions and interviews are held mid-semester to build our roster for the upcoming term. Candidates who are hired will be eligible for placement on the schedule starting the following semester.
  • Teaching Availability: To support program continuity for our community, candidates must be available to teach for a minimum of two full semesters following their audition semester. (For example, a candidate auditioning in the fall semester must be able to teach both the following spring and fall semesters.) 

Certification Requirements:

  • Group Fitness Certification: Hold a current, nationally recognized fitness certification or specialized training (e.g., ACE, AFAA, ACSM, Spinning®, ZUMBA®, 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training, or equivalent) at the time of application.
  • Adult CPR, AED & First Aid: Current certification with an in-person practical/hands-on component (no fully online certifications). American Red Cross is preferred, though equivalent blended or in-person certifications will be reviewed. (Must be obtained within one month of hire.)

Core Responsibilities:

Teaching Philosophy & Instructor Presence

  • Create an Inclusive Space: Design and lead safe and effective classes that offer options for varied fitness levels and body mechanics. 
  • Guide Alignment & Choice: Demonstrate and cue exercises dynamically, prioritizing body literacy, functional alignment, and participant autonomy over rigid movement expectations. 
  • Pre & Post-Class Presence: Arrive 12 minutes before class to set up audio/equipment and welcome participants, and remain 12 minutes after to clean up, answer questions, and foster class community.
  • Feedback & Growth: As a university-based developmental program, maintain a receptive approach to supervisor observations and feedback.

Operational Safety & Administration

  • Class Administration: Check for participant wristbands, log participation numbers, ensure equipment is safely stored, and after class secure the facility. 
  • Safety & Care: Maintain a safe environment by recognizing signs of exertion, reporting facility concerns, and completing incident reports when necessary.
  • Program Communication: Read the weekly Friday Instructor Newsletter to stay informed, and check email regularly for subbing requests and administrative updates.

Administrative Requirements

  • Staff Meetings: Attend mandatory all-staff meetings once per semester to stay aligned with program updates, policies, and seasonal schedules.
  • HR Trainings: Complete and stay current on all university and HR-required online training modules as they are assigned.