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Fitness Program Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

You'll oversee the Group Fitness program in your club, managing class schedules, developing instructors, and ensuring programming is high-energy, safe, and inclusive for all fitness levels. This role ...

You'll oversee the Group Fitness program in your club, managing class schedules, developing instructors, and ensuring programming is high-energy, safe, and inclusive for all fitness levels. This role ...

You'll oversee the Group Fitness program in your club, managing class schedules, developing instructors, and ensuring programming is high-energy, safe, and inclusive for all fitness levels. This role ...

Fitness Trainer

Elmwood Park, IL · On-site

$13 - $15.75/hr

Conduct and run the Planet Fitness PE@PF program, including creating and following the schedule ... Manager or Manager as needed. Qualifications/Requirements * A passion for fitness and health!

Fitness Trainer

Morton Grove, IL · On-site

$13.25 - $16/hr

Conduct and run the Planet Fitness PE@PF program, including creating and following the schedule ... Manager or Manager as needed. Qualifications/Requirements * A passion for fitness and health!

Fitness Trainer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Conduct and run the Planet Fitness PE@PF program, including creating and following the schedule ... Manager or Manager as needed. Qualifications/Requirements * A passion for fitness and health!

Fitness Trainer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$13.25 - $16/hr

Conduct and run the Planet Fitness PE@PF program, including creating and following the schedule ... Manager or Manager as needed. Qualifications/Requirements * A passion for fitness and health!

Fitness Trainer

Riverdale, IL · On-site

$12.50 - $15/hr

Conduct and run the Planet Fitness PE@PF program, including creating and following the schedule ... Manager or Manager as needed. Qualifications/Requirements * A passion for fitness and health!

Fitness Trainer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Conduct and run the Planet Fitness PE@PF program, including creating and following the schedule ... Manager or Manager as needed. Qualifications/Requirements * A passion for fitness and health!

Fitness Trainer

Joliet, IL · On-site

$12.75 - $15.50/hr

Conduct and run the Planet Fitness PE@PF program, including creating and following the schedule ... Manager or Manager as needed. Qualifications/Requirements * A passion for fitness and health!

Fitness Trainer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Conduct and run the Planet Fitness PE@PF program, including creating and following the schedule ... Manager or Manager as needed. Qualifications/Requirements * A passion for fitness and health!

Fitness Trainer

Lansing, IL · On-site

$13 - $15.50/hr

Conduct and run the Planet Fitness PE@PF program, including creating and following the schedule ... Manager or Manager as needed. Qualifications/Requirements * A passion for fitness and health!

Fitness Trainer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Conduct and run the Planet Fitness PE@PF program, including creating and following the schedule ... Manager or Manager as needed. Qualifications/Requirements * A passion for fitness and health!

Fitness Trainer

Oak Lawn, IL · On-site

$13.50 - $16.25/hr

Conduct and run the Planet Fitness PE@PF program, including creating and following the schedule ... Manager or Manager as needed. Qualifications/Requirements * A passion for fitness and health!

Fitness Trainer

Cicero, IL · On-site

$13.25 - $16/hr

Conduct and run the Planet Fitness PE@PF program, including creating and following the schedule ... Manager or Manager as needed. Qualifications/Requirements * A passion for fitness and health!

Fitness Trainer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Conduct and run the Planet Fitness PE@PF program, including creating and following the schedule ... Manager or Manager as needed. Qualifications/Requirements * A passion for fitness and health!

Fitness Trainer

Evanston, IL · On-site

$12.75 - $15.25/hr

Conduct and run the Planet Fitness PE@PF program, including creating and following the schedule ... Manager or Manager as needed. Qualifications/Requirements * A passion for fitness and health!

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Showing results 1-20

Fitness Program Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$39.7K

$110.8K

$161.9K

How much do fitness program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for fitness program manager in Chicago, IL is $110,787.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,000.00 and $136,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a fitness program manager do?

A Fitness Program Manager oversees the development, implementation, and management of fitness programs within an organization, gym, or health club. Their responsibilities include designing exercise plans, supervising fitness staff, ensuring the safety and satisfaction of clients, and monitoring program effectiveness. They may also handle budgeting, scheduling, and staff training to ensure high-quality service and compliance with health regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fitness program manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fitness Program Manager, you need a strong background in exercise science, program design, and leadership, typically supported by a degree in kinesiology or a related field and industry-recognized certifications like ACSM or NASM. Familiarity with fitness tracking software, scheduling systems, and health assessment tools is important for managing programs and monitoring client progress. Outstanding communication, motivational skills, and the ability to build rapport help create a positive environment and inspire both clients and staff. These combined skills ensure the effective delivery of fitness programs, client satisfaction, and the overall success of the facility.

What are some common challenges faced by fitness program managers, and how can they be overcome?

Fitness Program Managers often face challenges such as balancing administrative responsibilities with hands-on program supervision, ensuring high client engagement, and adapting programs to diverse participant needs. Effective time management, clear communication with both staff and clients, and staying current with industry trends can help address these issues. Building a strong team and fostering collaboration also contribute to overcoming common hurdles and delivering successful fitness programs.

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

AspectFitness Program ManagerFitness Instructor
CertificationsCPR/AED, fitness management certifications, possibly NASM or ACECPR/AED, personal trainer certifications (e.g., NASM, ACE, ISSA)
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple programs, manages staff, plans budgets, works in gyms, health clubs, or wellness centersLeads individual or group fitness classes, works directly with clients in gyms or studios
Primary ResponsibilitiesProgram development, staff supervision, operational managementConducts fitness classes, personal training sessions, client coaching

While both roles focus on fitness, a Fitness Program Manager oversees entire programs and staff, focusing on management and planning. A Fitness Instructor directly engages with clients through classes and training sessions. The roles complement each other within the fitness industry but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Fitness Program jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Fitness Program jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Fitness Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Fitness Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Fitness Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Fitness Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Fitness Program Manager jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Fitness Program Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Fitness Program Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, and 36% Part Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $110,787 per year, or $53.3 per hour.

Sports & Fitness Program Assistant

Breakthrough

Chicago, IL

$36K - $46K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Support the management of community sports activities, including scheduling, athlete recruitment, parent communication, and event supervision.

  • Develop, plan, and execute sports programs, leagues, camps, and tournaments both within and outside the facility.

  • Collaborate with community partners, volunteers, and staff to promote program offerings and ensure smooth program operations.


Job description

Job Title: Sports amp; Fitness Program Assistant
FLSA Code: Full time, Exempt with benefits
Reports to: Director of Operations amp; Recreation
Program Area: Breakthrough Youth Network
Hours: 40-hour workweek; including weekends and evening hours
Location: FamilyPlex, 3319 W. Carroll Ave, Chicago, IL 60624
POSITION SUMMARY
Demonstrate the mission and vision of Breakthrough Urban Ministries, the Sports and Fitness Program Assistant will oversee the Breakthrough Sports and Fitness Academy (BSFA), which currently encompasses 15+ sports teams/clubs competing in a variety of sports. S/he will manage current and planned community sports teams, house leagues, travel experiences and developmental programs for ages 6+. Candidate will also contribute to the continued development of the overall Breakthrough Youth Network through serving on the FamilyPlex Leadership Team.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES/FUNCTIONS
  • Support the management of community sports activities serving over 500 athletes annually; including: expense budgets, sponsorships, scheduling, equipment, athlete recruitment, parent communication, event supervision, healthy snacks, organizing team outings, and transportation
  • Develop, plan and execute facility and out-of-facility sports programs, leagues, camps, and tournaments
  • Manage and cultivate key ongoing program partnerships and build relationships with local schools and community organizations to communicate the Sports and Fitness Academy program offerings and initiatives
  • Collaborate with Breakthrough volunteer engagement team to recruit, train and retain a reliable volunteer base
  • Ensure compliance with internal and external grant and reporting requirements, including Sports and Fitness Academy outcomes for BYN Scorecard and daily/weekly program paperwork such as attendance sheets, parent sign-outs, etc.)
  • Implement BYN policies and behavior management methodology on a daily basis
  • Assist in the youth mentoring program by planning activities, teaching lessons, building relationships with youth and volunteers.
  • Pursue meaningful relationships with volunteers, community athletes and their parents
  • Daily participate in the Nettie Bailey Student Achievement Program (K-8th after school program) including team meetings, classroom/event oversight, instruction, student engagement and interventions
  • Assist with student transportation and building clean-up when needed
  • Collaborate with Director to create annual budget
  • Participate in special events; such as, summer camps, awards nights, registration nights, and field trips
  • Participate in staff trainings and professional development
  • Performs other duties and tasks assigned

Demonstrated Values
  • Independently follows agency policy and procedures
  • Follows through with commitments including meeting established timelines
  • Identifies and resolves difficult and complex issues effectively
  • Maintains a professional appearance, demonstrating appropriate hygiene and grooming.
  • Demonstrate exceptional customer service in all interactions
  • Works effectively with diverse staff, communities and population served
  • Maintain a high degree of sensitivity, tact, and diplomacy during stressful situations.
  • A passion for the mission of Breakthrough

QUALIFICATIONS
  • High School diploma or equivalent OR a minimum of one (1) year of experience serving urban communities working with youth, and/or managing sporting events
  • Ability to demonstrate initiative and follow through and be comfortable working in a changing environment.
  • Must possess an accurate and informed understanding of cultural and urban realities, especially as related to youth, poverty, and community development
  • Strong interpersonal skills, conflict resolution skills, and the ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite as well as other Windows based programs and comfortable using computer programs to track participant engagement
  • Ability to work with a team, respond well to supervisor direction, be flexible and dependable, and demonstrate initiative
  • Must demonstrate initiative and follow through, and be comfortable working in a dynamic environment
  • Ability to demonstrate sensitivity to the service population’s cultural and socioeconomic characteristics.
  • Must maintain a valid driver’s license, have daily access to a vehicle and an acceptable motor vehicle driving record and/or reliable means of transportation are required

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Interpret and explain policies, procedures, and relevant laws
  • Must demonstrate solid knowledge in the fields of youth development and sports/fitness
  • Ability to demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, professionalism, and problem solving ability.
  • Ability to demonstrate initiative and follow through and be comfortable working in a changing environment.
  • Maintain a high degree of sensitivity, tact, and diplomacy during stressful situations.
  • Maintain confidentiality with sensitive information
  • Ability to create and maintain collegial, harmonious working relationships with others
  • Demonstrates willingness to consistently improve work performance through their relationship and guidance.
  • Must possess an accurate and informed understanding of cultural and urban realities, especially as related to youth, families, poverty, and community development.

SUPERVISION
  • Direction received from the Director of Operations amp; Recreation
  • This position has no direct reports

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING CONDITIONS
Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to walk and/or sit; use hands and fingers to feel objects, tools or controls, reach with hands and arms; balance; stoop; regularly talk or hear. The employee must be able to bend, stoop, pull, lift as well as have overhead extension of arms. Must be able to stand for long periods of time; be able to lift, carry or move at least 50 pounds. Must adhere to proper handling and lifting techniques. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions
Work Environment
While performing the duties of this job, the employee will work in an office located in a multi-purpose facility and/or outdoors and thus will be exposed to weather conditions prevalent at the time. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate but can be high depending on the activities in the facility.
Safety Requirements
Prior to the first day of work, must complete a criminal background and sex offender clearance

Equipment Used
The employee will generally use general office equipment including but not limited to telephone, computer, calculator, copier, overhead projector, paper shredder, paper cutter, and filing systems.
BENEFITS
  • Medical - We offer group medical benefits through BlueCross BlueShield to full-time employees. You have the option of choosing between a PPO or HMO plans. Depending on the plan you choose, there may be no cost for an employee single coverage. There is a cost per pay period for coverage for family (i.e., employee plus spouse; employee plus child(ren) or employee plus spouse and child(ren).
  • Dental – We offer group dental benefits through BlueCross BlueShield to full-time employees. You have the option of choosing between a PPO or HMO. This is an employee paid benefit.
  • Vision - We offer group vision benefits through BlueCross BlueShield to full-time employees. This is an employee paid benefit.
  • Life - Through MetLife, we offer full-time employees term life insurance to the employee’s family in case of death. The cost of this benefit is paid fully by the organization.
  • Short and long-term disability - If you become disabled, MetLife provides both short-term and long-term disability insurance to full-time employees. The cost of this benefit is paid fully by the organization.
  • 401 (k) Plan - We offer a 401(k) plan which is a tax-deferred annuity to assist full-time employees in planning for retirement. We match 50% of your contribution up to a total of 3% of your base salary.
  • Section 125 Plan (FSA) - Through TASC, we allow full-time employees to make contributions toward premiums for medical insurance, out-of-pocket medical expenses, dependent care expenses, and/or transit and parking on a “before tax” rather than an “after tax” basis.
  • Vacation Days - Full-time employees in this position are eligible to accrue vacation days at a rate of 6.67 – 13.33 days per month based on tenure with the organization.
  • Personal Days - Full-time employees in this position are eligible for up to 3 personal days annually, pro-rated in year one.
  • Sick Days - Full-time employees in this position are eligible for up to 10 sick days annually, pro-rated in year one.
COMPENSATION
The actual salary within the range is determined by many factors including, but not limited to, skills, experience, education and internal equity.
$20-$22/hr
Breakthrough is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, or any other non-merit factors. If a reasonable accommodation is needed for any part of the hiring process, please contact us at HR@breakthrough.org. The decision to grant reasonable accommodation will be on a case-by-case basis.