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Fitness Program Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Syracuse University

Fitness Program Manager

Syracuse, NY · On-site

$24.52/hr

Job Type Full-time Unionized Position Code Not Applicable The Fitness Program Manager reports to the Assistant Director for Fitness Programs and assists with the daily operations of the Barnes Center ...

Kaweahhealth

Fitness Program Coordinator

Visalia, CA · On-site

$25.28 - $37.92/hr

Works collaboratively with clinical Directors/Coordinators on the development and implementation of ... Administers health screenings/fitness testing both on and off site. Gives exercise prescriptions.

Kaweah Health

Fitness Program Coordinator

Visalia, CA · On-site

$25.28 - $37.92/hr

Works collaboratively with clinical Directors/Coordinators on the development and implementation of ... Administers health screenings/fitness testing both on and off site. Gives exercise prescriptions.

Hospitality Pro Search

Be Seen First

Fitness Program Coordinator Needed

Texas City, TX · On-site

$40K - $45K/yr

Direct daily operations while teaching 8-12 weekly classes + 2 bootcamps. * Build the Team: Recruit ... This is your chance to shape a growing program and make a lasting impact on our fitness community.

Xperience Fitness

Program Director

Oak Creek, WI · On-site

Non-Exempt JOB SUMMARY Program Directors are responsible for promoting and selling gym memberships for Xperience Fitness, as well as contributing to all aspects of a positive customer experience ...

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Fitness Program Director information

See salary details

$29.5K

$78.2K

$137K

How much do fitness program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for fitness program director in the United States is $78,196.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,000.00 and $92,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Fitness Program Director vs Fitness Instructor?

AspectFitness Program DirectorFitness Instructor
CertificationsCPR/AED, personal trainer certification, program management experienceCPR/AED, personal trainer certification
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple classes or programs, manages staff, plans fitness initiativesLeads individual or group fitness classes, provides training
ResponsibilitiesProgram development, staff supervision, budget managementConducts fitness sessions, instructs clients, demonstrates exercises

The main difference is that a Fitness Program Director oversees multiple fitness programs and manages staff, while a Fitness Instructor focuses on leading individual or group classes. The director handles planning and administration, whereas the instructor provides direct training and instruction.

How does a Fitness Program Director typically collaborate with trainers and other staff to ensure program quality?

A Fitness Program Director works closely with personal trainers, group fitness instructors, and administrative staff to coordinate class schedules, implement new fitness initiatives, and monitor participant feedback. Regular meetings and ongoing communication are common to discuss program improvements, address challenges, and ensure that staff have the resources and training they need. This collaborative approach helps maintain high program standards and fosters a supportive team environment, directly contributing to member satisfaction and retention.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Fitness Program Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fitness Program Director, you need expertise in exercise science, program development, and team leadership, often supported by a degree in kinesiology or a related field and relevant certifications (such as ACSM, NASM, or ACE). Familiarity with fitness management software, scheduling systems, and health assessment tools is typically required. Strong communication, motivational, and organizational skills help you inspire clients and effectively manage staff. These competencies are crucial for creating impactful fitness programs, ensuring operational efficiency, and fostering a positive environment for clients and team members.

What does a Fitness Program Director do?

A Fitness Program Director oversees the planning, development, and management of fitness programs at gyms, health clubs, or community centers. They are responsible for hiring and training staff, creating class schedules, ensuring the facility meets safety and health standards, and developing programs that meet the needs of various clients. Additionally, they may manage budgets, promote programs, and evaluate the effectiveness of fitness offerings to ensure high-quality service. Their role combines leadership, program development, and operational management in the fitness industry.
What cities are hiring for Fitness Program Director jobs? Cities with the most Fitness Program Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Fitness Program jobs? The most popular types of Fitness Program jobs are:
What states have the most Fitness Program Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Fitness Program Director jobs include:
Fitness Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fitness Program Director job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 96% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,196 per year, or $37.6 per hour.
Fitness Program Director

Fitness Program Director

YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

$48K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

The Fitness Director provides operational leadership to the Fitness team. This role is accountable to ensure high-quality programming to meet the community needs and goals for program enrollment, quality, member experience, and budget. This includes enhancing the member/participant experience and member retention, delivering on program enrollment goals and revenue/budget and ensuring a safe environment for all members, participants and staff. Provides leadership and supervision that drives team engagement, performance and development.
Salary range for this position is $48,000_$55,000 per year with full-time benefits and opportunities to grow within the organization!
Our staff is the Y's greatest asset. Our teams provide valuable skills, knowledge, and passion that is essential to the contribution and positive impact in our communities, which is why we offer Y employees numerous perks and benefits, including:
  • Competitive salaries reflecting your skills and experience.
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for eligible employees, plus wellness programs, mental health resources, and a family gym membership.
  • Generous PTO and paid holidays, with flexible work hours for work-life balance.
  • 403(b) plan with company contributions for eligible employees after 2 years of service.
  • Continuous learning opportunities through workshops and training programs.
  • Supportive work environment valuing diversity, equity, and inclusion.
  • Discounts on programs, employee assistance programs, and company-sponsored events.

Scope of Responsibilities:
Member and Program Experience
  • Increases member/participant connection and commitment to YMCA programs and ensures the member/participant experience is consistent, integrated and aligned to YMCA goals for member experience, engagement and retention.
  • Addresses members' and prospective members' inquiries. Adapts and creates tools and processes to enhance member experience.
  • Monitors program registration goals to understand trends and identify means for development. Adapts and customizes program portfolio to meet community needs.
  • Collaborates with peers and leaders in and outside the Y to promote programs in the community through multiple channels. Participates in special events and activities at the center and within the community.
  • Coordinates with membership/contact center to ensure all collections, refunds and other transactions are completed accurately and timely.
  • Participates in direct service as needed to facilitate program operations.
  • Collaborates with other teams within center on membership and programming to ensure a high-quality member experience.

Team Management
  • Identifies, manages and motivates a high-performing team that accomplishes program objectives.
  • Establishes, monitors and evaluates team goals and performance standards. Coaches, trains and develops team members to optimize performance and enhance member experience.
  • Coaches and mentors staff to support them in delivering safe, engaging and well-organized program services. Completes formal staff evaluations for performance reviews and provides coaching and intervention as necessary.
  • Hires, onboards and trains new staff and provides ongoing trainings in accordance with training designs. Facilitates all-staff meetings and in-services. Responsible for ensuring staff are compliant with required trainings and certifications.
  • Manages time and attendance for current staff, ensuring that time is accurately recorded in the HRIS system.
  • Recruits and trains volunteers to meet the needs of the programs.

Program Management
  • Manages program budget, including forecasting revenue, managing program margins and expenses, to meet financial targets. Monitors and reports on program financial performance and ensures program safety and compliance according to program standards.
  • Oversees maintenance of program guides, customer management system and online registration site to market programs to members and the community.
  • Works to keep facilities safe, clean and inviting by adhering to association standards. Promotes the value of keeping the center welcoming and safe with staff.
  • Identifies, escalates and rectifies potential risks that could threaten the safety, health or well-being of members, participants or employees.

Minimum and Preferred Requirements:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Physiology, Recreation, or related field and/or equivalent experience
  • 2 years or more of recreation-related experience; Prior team leadership/supervisory experience is essential with the ability to collaborate with others and attract, motivate, and effectively coach teams
  • Personal Training certification required.
  • Passion for and commitment to the YMCA's mission
  • Strong customer service orientation with the ability to relate well with a diverse set of youth, parents, and volunteers
  • Strong verbal, written and presentation skills with the ability to effectively lead in-services and trainings essential
  • Ability to organize and prioritize multiple, competing priorities to maximize personal and team effectiveness
  • Demonstrated interpersonal skills with the ability to effectively build and maintain relationships with stakeholders and constituents
  • Ability to meet physical requirements of job including the physical stamina, agility and sudden exertion required to safely lead sports and aquatics programs. The YMCA will make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities

Child Abuse Prevention - Supports the YMCA's commitment to child abuse prevention by:
  • Reporting any items that may provide a health or safety hazard to staff, members or guests to your supervisor
  • Following all policies and procedures related to keeping children safe in our facilities and programs, including those related to the monitoring and supervision of children
  • Reporting any suspicious behavior and violation of policy and procedures to your supervisor
  • Completing all child abuse prevention training as require

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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