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Head Instructor Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Swim Team Coach

Columbia, SC · On-site

$17/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You will help the Head Swim Team Coach register new participants for the Team and maintain the ... Successfully complete and pass Life Time Swim Instructor Certification * Ability to work in a ...

Head Instructor information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$10

$20

$31

How much do head instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for head instructor in Columbia, SC is $20.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $24.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the job of a head instructor?

A head instructor is responsible for leading and managing instructional staff, developing training programs, and ensuring effective teaching methods. They oversee class operations, evaluate instructor performance, and maintain safety standards within the learning environment.

What does a head instructor do?

A Head Instructor is responsible for overseeing the planning, coordination, and delivery of educational or training programs within an organization or institution. They supervise other instructors, develop curriculum, ensure teaching standards are met, and often teach advanced classes themselves. Additionally, Head Instructors may be involved in evaluating student progress, mentoring staff, and addressing any issues that arise within their team. Their leadership ensures that the learning environment is effective and that educational objectives are achieved.

What are some common challenges faced by a head instructor and how can they be addressed?

Head Instructors often face the challenge of balancing administrative duties with hands-on teaching. Managing a diverse team of instructors, addressing student needs, and updating curriculum to meet industry standards can be demanding. Effective time management, clear communication, and staying current with best practices are key to overcoming these challenges. Collaborating closely with staff and seeking regular feedback from both students and instructors can also enhance program quality and team morale.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a head instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Head Instructor, you need extensive subject matter expertise, teaching experience, and relevant educational credentials, often including advanced degrees or certifications in your field. Familiarity with curriculum development tools, learning management systems (LMS), and assessment software is typically required. Leadership, strong communication, and the ability to mentor others are crucial soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure effective instruction, foster team development, and maintain high educational standards within an institution.

What is the difference between Head Instructor vs Assistant Instructor?

AspectHead InstructorAssistant Instructor
Required CredentialsCertifications in teaching, leadership experienceBasic teaching certifications, training
Work EnvironmentLeads classes, manages curriculum, supervises staffSupports lead instructor, assists with classes
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in education, martial arts, fitnessCommon in similar settings, supporting roles
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for leadership roles, advanced responsibilitiesEntry to mid-level support roles

The main difference between a Head Instructor and an Assistant Instructor lies in their responsibilities and experience. The Head Instructor leads classes, manages curriculum, and supervises staff, requiring more certifications and leadership skills. The Assistant Instructor supports the lead, assists with classes, and typically has fewer certifications. Both roles are common in educational, fitness, and martial arts industries, but the Head Instructor holds a more senior, leadership position.

What are the most commonly searched types of Instructor jobs in Columbia, SC?

The most popular types of Instructor jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Head Instructor jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Head Instructor job openings:

Training Instructor - Security & Operations

State of South Carolina

Columbia, SC

$45K - $77K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


State Of South Carolina rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Responsibilities If your goal is to build a career that makes a difference and you have a passion for making a difference in the lives of South Carolina's youth, consider joining the dedicated people of the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ). MISSION It is the mission of the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) to impact and transform young lives, strengthen families, and support safer communities through targeted prevention and rehabilitation. JOB PURPOSE: Under limited supervision, plans, develops, conducts and coordinates staff development and training programs for agency staff with special emphasis for Security and Operations division, to include all SCDJJ Facilities; Assists in the training of other direct care staff in the agency as needed or required; Assists in conducting needs assessments and serving as part of the training team for Training and Certification.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES: Training and Delivery- Conducts and assists in the development and implementation of trainings related to assigned training programs (Security and Operations, Recertification, In-Service) based on the identified programmatic and/or agency needs while utilizing various training modalities including, but not limited to virtual, in person, and eLearning platforms. Effectively conducts and co-facilitates in cross trained programmatic areas, as needed, and adjusts training delivery styles to meet the needs of participants based on adult learning theory best practices. Accurately completes and submits paperwork for training records.

Uses Microsoft Suite programs. Communication- Demonstrate excellent written and verbal communication skills effectively and clearly by responding, reporting, and communicating with training participants, co-facilitators, training managers, and required programmatic division/agency staff, as required, regarding training information as deemed necessary and appropriate. Effectively manages time, prioritizes tasks, and meets deadlines.

Quality Assurance- Conducts formal and informal evaluations of trainings and training methodologies to ensure compliance with various standards including, but not limited to, quality of instructional content, juvenile correctional best practices, and workforce/talent development best practices. Uses expertise to make recommendations for execution of projects while acting as a good steward of available resources. Additionally, provides updates and recommendations for training quality improvements based on feedback, and implements updates based on approval.

Needs Assessments- Conducts formal and informal needs assessments by applying analytical skills in collecting information that identifies gaps as it relates to the training of employees who are responsible for providing direct care and recommend solutions. Professional Development- Maintains and further develops specialized knowledge and expertise in core competencies for trainers. Seeks and pursues opportunities to advance know how and skills of correctional settings.

Additionally, obtains and maintains required instructor certifications in Nationally recognized and/or accredited training programs to have and possess the knowledge, ability, and capacity to deliver. Performs other related duties as needed or required to support the division or the agency. Minimum and Additional Requirements STATE MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: A bachelor's degree and relevant experience.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Required knowledge of applicable training principles and practices-especially pertaining to adult learners. Knowledge of methods and techniques of conducting formal and informal training sessions. Ability to lead discussion groups to stimulate participants in the learning process.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships. Ability to analyze training/ development needs and resources as well as communicate solutions effectively utilizing critical thinking. Knowledge of the juvenile justice system required.

Must be able to effectively work with other training team members. Works closely with the training division managers to plan, deliver and coordinate all trainings for assigned area. Includes and consists of physical intervention techniques and on-the-job functions but not limited to: Handcuffing (hands extended behind back), prone positions (flat on stomach and/or back), bending at the waist and torque motions; lifting hands above the head, repeated breathing (inhaling/exhaling) techniques for First Aid/CPR/AED.

Kneel on knees (together and individually) unsupported. Walk and/or stand for extended periods of time, sit in a desk chair for up to eight hours per day at least 5-7 days per week. This position performs job duties relating to the custody, control, transportation, or recapture of youth within the jurisdiction of DJJ, and the employee may have direct and indirect contact with youth within the jurisdiction of DJJ.

Trainings applicable to these duties will be provided. Routine travel throughout the state possible. Position is not sedentary; employees must be mobile and able to bend, kneel, lift, carry, and demonstrate physical safety interventions applied on youth for agency behavior management training which includes and consists of primary restraint and take down techniques.

Attend training and maintain certification required to meet agency needs. Preferred Qualifications PREFERRED AGENCY REQUIREMENTS: A bachelor's degree and five years (5) of experience with employee training, instructional design, curriculum development or related field. Additional Requirements: Successful completion of the Detention Basic training at the SC Criminal Justice Academy and the DJJ's Training of Trainers within 9 months of hire and other applicable instructor certifications as required for delivery of training to agency staff.

Must successfully complete and maintain instructor certification in agency's selected behavioral management training which includes the primary restraint and take down techniques and on-the-job functions. Additional Comments The South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice offers an exceptional benefits package for FTE positions that includes: Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Health, dental, and life insurance 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year 15 days of sick leave per year 13 paid holidays State retirement plans and deferred compensation programs Discount Programs such as TicketatWork and WeSave Applications are incomplete if you fail to answer all supplemental questions, education, and work history. Incomplete applications are not referred to hiring managers.

Applications are accepted until 5:00 p.m. on the stated closing date. You will be asked to provide a certified transcript if selected for a position requiring a degree

A background investigation will be conducted that may include but is not limited to, criminal records, driver's license, and child abuse registry prior to an offer of employment. Additionally, a medical examination and drug testing may be required. Please provide an explanation for any gaps in employment.

A resume may be attached to your application but not substituted for completing the work history section of the application.


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About State of South Carolina

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

State of South Carolina is not a typical corporation, but the governing body of the US state of South Carolina, located in the capital city of Columbia. Its industry focuses on public administration, providing key essential services to ensure the efficient functioning of the state. These services range from public safety and environment protection to education, healthcare, and economic development. The state was founded in 1788, grounded in democratic principles meant to support the overall well-being of its citizenry. Its core values revolve around service, integrity, accountability, and transparency. The mission of the State of South Carolina is to improve the quality of life for all its people, with a focus on education advancement, economic growth, and improved healthcare.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbia, SC, US

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