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Instructor Jobs in Olympia, WA (NOW HIRING)

Instructor - Group X - Shelton

Shelton, WA · On-site

$20.25 - $24.75/hr

The instructor is also responsible for the safety and overall satisfaction of participants. OUR CULTURE: Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live ...

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Instructor information

See Olympia, WA salary details

$15

$48

$85

How much do instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for instructor in Olympia, WA is $48.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.83 and $65.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an instructor do?

An Instructor is a professional who teaches students in a specific subject or skill, often at the postsecondary, vocational, or training level. They design lesson plans, deliver lectures or hands-on training, and assess students' progress through assignments and exams. Instructors may work in colleges, technical schools, private organizations, or online platforms, adapting their teaching methods to meet the needs of diverse learners. Their goal is to help students understand new concepts, develop skills, and achieve their educational or professional objectives.

What does an instructor do?

It’s an instructor’s job to teach students how to improve their hands-on skills or learn more about a particular subject. Instructors work in various industries, but many of the essential skills, duties, and responsibilities overlap even if the subject material is specialized and the job qualifications differ. Instructors need to be comfortable working with different skill levels, age groups, and learning speeds. Of course, instructors need to have expertise in what they teach. As an instructor, it’s essential to have patience, to be an excellent listener, and to be comfortable providing feedback and constructive criticism. Having previous education or classroom teacher experience is helpful for getting started in this role.

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

To thrive as an Instructor, you need subject matter expertise, strong instructional abilities, and typically a relevant degree or teaching certification. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS) like Canvas or Blackboard and digital presentation tools is often required. Exceptional communication, adaptability, and classroom management skills help foster an engaging and inclusive learning environment. These skills ensure effective knowledge transfer, student engagement, and successful educational outcomes.

How do instructors typically collaborate with colleagues and support staff to enhance student learning outcomes?

Instructors often work closely with colleagues, such as teaching assistants, curriculum developers, and fellow faculty members, to create cohesive and engaging learning experiences. Regular meetings and team discussions help align teaching strategies and share best practices. Collaboration with administrative and support staff also ensures that classroom logistics, resources, and student needs are efficiently managed. This teamwork fosters a supportive environment where Instructors can focus on delivering effective instruction and addressing student challenges.

What is the difference between Instructor vs Trainer?

AspectInstructorTrainer
Required CredentialsTypically requires teaching certifications or subject-specific credentialsOften requires certifications in training methods or industry-specific skills
Work EnvironmentClassrooms, educational institutions, online learning platformsWorkshops, corporate settings, specialized training sessions
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, colleges, online education providersCorporations, training companies, professional development firms
Common Search & ComparisonOften searched by individuals seeking educational rolesOften searched by organizations or professionals seeking skill development

While both instructors and trainers focus on teaching, instructors typically deliver academic or theoretical content in educational settings, whereas trainers focus on practical skills and hands-on learning in corporate or specialized environments. The choice depends on whether the goal is academic instruction or skill development.

What are the career paths for instructors?

Instructors can advance to roles such as senior instructor, department head, curriculum developer, training manager, or educational coordinator. They may also pursue specialization in areas like instructional design, online education, or obtain certifications to qualify for higher-level teaching or administrative positions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Instructor jobs in Olympia, WA?

The most popular types of Instructor jobs in Olympia, WA are:

What are popular job titles related to Instructor jobs in Olympia, WA?

For Instructor jobs in Olympia, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Olympia, WA are hiring for Instructor jobs?

Cities near Olympia, WA with the most Instructor job openings:

Infographic showing various Instructor job openings in Olympia, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% Full Time, 60% Part Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $101,654 per year, or $48.9 per hour.

$19.23 - $19.73/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Position: Exercise Instructor

Wage:$19.23 to $19.73 per hour, depending on qualifications

Hours:Part-Time, Up to 25 hours per week

Location:Pearl Street Family YMCA, Tacoma, WA

As an Exercise Instructor, you will create a safe and positive atmosphere that promotes member safety and engagement as you teach group exercise classes.

Qualifications:

  • Minimum of one year experience in group exercise classes.
  • Knowledge of core fitness components and best practices for group exercise instruction.
  • Group Exercise or related specialty certification (preferred).
  • YMCA Foundations of Strength and Conditioning and/or Foundations of Group Exercise certification, or equivalent certifications such as ACE, ACSM, or AFAA (preferred).
  • Current CPR for the Professional Rescuer, First Aid, AED, and Oxygen certifications (preferred).
  • Must be able to pass Background and Reference checks (in accordance with the WA State Fair Chance Act).
  • Committed to valuing and promoting diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.
  • Able and willing to complete online Child Abuse Prevention training on first day, and other online and in-person training as required.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Conductfun, safeand educational classes
  • Design classes to improve one or more of the four components of fitness; flexibility, strength, muscular endurance, and cardio-respiratory conditioning
  • Demonstrate techniqueswith different intensity levels
  • Build relationships with members
  • Maintain equipment organization
  • Assist in compiling program statistics

Benefits:

All YMCA Employees receive the below benefits:

  • A Personal YMCA membership and YMCA360 virtual streaming membership
  • Flexible scheduling around school and extracurricular activities Paid Sick Leave accrued at 1.23 hours for every 40 hours worked per year
  • Employee Assistance Plan (EAP), Digital mental health counseling platform, Wellness program, and LifeMart employee discount center
  • Professional training, education, and certification opportunities
  • 20% discount on YMCA programs, childcare services and merchandise

Part-Time employees who work more than 20 hrs./week are eligible for the below voluntary benefit options:

  • HealthiestYou: by Teladoc (24/7 virtual general medical care access for non-emergency conditions)
  • Willamette Dental Plan
  • VSP Vision Plan

At the Y, we're all about empowering people, inspiring action, and strengthening the communities we call home. Join our team and support our vision of creating opportunity so all can thrive in every season of life. To apply, visit our website atwww.ymcapkc.org.

The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties is committed to diversity and inclusion throughout our organization and is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Women/Minority/Veteran/Disabled

Exercise Instructor Job Description

Position Summary

The Exercise Instructor provides direct leadership, instruction, and motivation for all members in group exercise classes. Develops, organizes, and implements high quality YMCA program(s). Provides a quality experience to members and participants focused on YMCA core values: caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

Key Responsibilities

Conduct energizing, fun, safe, and educational classes.

Design the class to improve one or more of the four components of fitness; flexibility, strength, muscular endurance, and cardio-respiratory conditioning.

Perform aerobic/fitness techniques that demonstrate different intensity levels to meet the various fitness levels of participants and to provide clear directions of these techniques.

Be available before and after classes to build relationship with members to increase class retention.

Maintain equipment organization.

Assist in compiling program statistics. Support monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of and participation in program.

Meet performance measurement by telling the Y story and raising charitable dollars to fulfill our mission.

Assist staff leadership team in reaching campaign goals through recruiting campaigners, making personal asks and supporting branch events.

Cleaning and sanitation protocols will be required of all staff.

Staff will be responsible for frequent touchpoint cleaning and sanitizing in specific areas.

Staff are expected to adhere to all safety protocols and procedures, including the use of PPE.

Embraces and actively promotes an inclusive and equitable work environment.

Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications, Skills and Abilities

Two years related experience in teaching group exercise classes.

National Fitness Certification, YMCA Foundations of Strength and Conditioning, Foundations of Group Exercise or equivalent, such as ACE, ACSM, or AFAA certifications.

Positive attitude and previous experience with diverse populations.

Current CPR for the Professional Rescuer, First Aid, AED, and Oxygen certifications.

Complete online Child Abuse Prevention training on first day. Complete other online and in-person training as required.

Working Conditions/Physical Demands

Regularly required to talk or hear.

Frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms.

Occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.

Must frequently lift or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift or move a higher amount.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

Ability to demonstrate and conduct activities relating to fitness.

Ability to plan, lead and participate in program activities.

Employee Acknowledgement

This job description indicates the general nature and levels of work, knowledge, skills, abilities and other essential functions expected of this position. This document is not an exhaustive list and other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or assigned at any time with or without advanced notice.

This job description does not constitute a contract of employment and the YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties may exercise employment-at-will rights at any time.

By signing below, you are acknowledging that you have read the document in its entirety and that you understand the requirements, essential functions, and job duties of this position. Further, you acknowledge that you are able to perform the duties of the position with or without reasonable accommodation(s), and that should you need assistance, that you are responsible for notifying your Director, Executive Director, and/or Human Resources.