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Massage Instructor Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

East West College

Kinesiology 1 Instructor

Portland, OR · On-site

Kinesiology 1 Instructor Fall Term Class Dates: Monday, October 5, 2026 to Wednesday, December 16 ... Licensed Massage Therapist or health care provider (DC, ND, PT, RN, etc.) with previous coursework ...

East West College

Kinesiology 1 Instructor

Portland, OR · On-site

Kinesiology 1 Instructor Fall Term Class Dates: Monday, October 5, 2026 to Wednesday, December 16 ... Licensed Massage Therapist or health care provider (DC, ND, PT, RN, etc.) with previous coursework ...

FLEXFIT HVSL LLC DBA StretchLab Happy Valley

Be Seen First

Flexologist/Stretch Practitioner(Kinesiology grads, personal trainers)

Happy Valley, OR · On-site

$16.80 - $25/hr

StretchLab Happy Valley is seeking Kinesiology graduates, personal trainers, Physical Therapy Assistants, massage therapists, and dance/yoga/Pilates instructors to join our team. This is an amazing ...

FLEXFIT HVSL LLC DBA StretchLab Happy Valley

Be Seen First

Flexologist/Stretch Practitioner(Kinesiology grads, personal trainers)

Happy Valley, OR · On-site

$16.80 - $25/hr

StretchLab Happy Valley is seeking Kinesiology graduates, personal trainers, Physical Therapy Assistants, massage therapists, and dance/yoga/Pilates instructors to join our team. This is an amazing ...

All JobsMassage Instructor JobsMassage Instructor Jobs in Portland, OR

Massage Instructor information

See Portland, OR salary details

$11

$33

$59

How much do massage instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for massage instructor in Portland, OR is $33.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.22 and $47.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a massage instructor?

Massage instructors are professionals who teach others the theory and practical skills required to perform therapeutic massage. They design and deliver coursework covering anatomy, massage techniques, client safety, and professional ethics. Massage instructors typically work at massage therapy schools, wellness centers, or vocational colleges, guiding students through hands-on practice and preparing them for certification exams. They play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of massage therapists by ensuring students are competent and knowledgeable.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a massage instructor?

To thrive as a Massage Instructor, you need comprehensive knowledge of massage techniques, anatomy, and instructional experience, typically supported by a massage therapy license and teaching credentials. Familiarity with learning management systems, anatomy software, and continuing education resources is commonly required. Excellent communication, patience, and motivational skills help instructors engage students and foster a supportive learning environment. These skills ensure effective teaching, student success, and the maintenance of high professional standards in massage education.

What are some common challenges massage instructors face when working with diverse student groups?

Massage Instructors often encounter students with varying levels of skill, learning styles, and cultural backgrounds. Balancing hands-on demonstrations with theoretical instruction can be challenging, as some students may grasp techniques quickly while others need more guidance. Additionally, instructors must foster a respectful and inclusive learning environment, ensuring all students feel comfortable practicing and receiving feedback. Effective communication and adaptability are key to helping every student succeed.

What is the difference between Massage Instructor vs Massage Therapist?

AspectMassage InstructorMassage Therapist
Required CredentialsMassage therapy certification, teaching credentialsMassage therapy certification, licensing
Work EnvironmentEducational settings, training centersClinics, spas, wellness centers
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, massage schoolsHealthcare, wellness, spa industry
Primary RoleTeaching massage techniques, curriculum developmentProviding massage therapy services to clients

In summary, a Massage Instructor focuses on teaching and training students in massage techniques within educational settings, while a Massage Therapist provides hands-on massage services to clients in various wellness environments. Both roles require massage therapy certification, but their job functions and work environments differ significantly.

How do I become a massage instructor?

To become a massage instructor, you typically need to have a valid massage therapy license, several years of hands-on experience, and advanced knowledge of massage techniques. Most programs require completing a massage therapy certification and then pursuing instructor training or education courses to develop teaching skills. Certification or licensing requirements vary by region, so checking local regulations is essential.

What are popular job titles related to Massage Instructor jobs in Portland, OR?

For Massage Instructor jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Massage Instructor jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Massage Instructor jobs in Portland, OR are:

Massage Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Massage Instructor job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $70,340 per year, or $33.8 per hour.

Foundations of Massage Instructor

East West College

Portland, OR • On-site

Part-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Foundations of Massage Instructor

Part-Time Position | Fall Term 2026
October 1 - December 19
9 hours per week | Tuesdays 6:30-9:30pm, Thursdays 6:30 - 9:30pm, and Saturdays 9am - noon


About the Position

We are seeking experienced massage therapy professionals to join our team as part-time instructors for our Foundations of Massage course. This is an excellent opportunity for practicing Licensed Massage Therapists who are passionate about education and want to share their expertise with the next generation of massage professionals.


The Foundations of Massage course provides an introduction the massage profession, including a history of massage, an overview of massage regulation, a brief summary of various bodywork modalities, and a focus on the development of massage skills used for general wellness and relaxation massage.


Schedule:Classes meet 3 times per week for a total of 9 instructional hours. Classes begin the week of September 30, 2026. Availability for onboarding and training prior to the course start date is required.


Primary Responsibilities

  • Deliver engaging, hands-on instruction in basis massage and bodywork modalities
  • Assess student learning through written exams, practical assessments, and homework assignments
  • Maintain accurate records of student attendance, grades, and academic progress
  • Provide regular, constructive feedback and individualized support to students
  • Collaborate with fellow faculty members to ensure curriculum consistency and program excellence


Required Qualifications

  • Current Oregon Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT)with active, unrestricted licensure
  • Minimum 2 years of professional massage therapy experience
  • Working knowledge of massage and bodywork modalities, including:
    • Swedish massage techniques
    • Basic myofascial techniques
  • Understanding of adult learning principles and teaching methodologies
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively with diverse student populations


Preferred Qualifications

  • Previous teaching experience in a massage therapy or bodywork program
  • Experience with hands-on, practical teaching methods
  • Knowledge of current research and evidence-based practices in massage therapy and bodywork
  • Additional certifications in related modalities


Work Environment

  • Instruction takes place in a professional classroom and hands-on learning environment
  • Collaborative team culture focused on student success
  • Ongoing professional development and continuing education opportunities provided
  • Supportive administrative team


Compensation & Benefits

  • Competitive hourly rate commensurate with experience and qualifications
  • Paid sick time
  • Professional development allowance
  • Discounts on continuing education classes
  • Complimentary monthly student massages in our public massage clinic


Please submit the following materials:

  • Current resume/CV
  • Cover letter describing your massage therapy experience and teaching philosophy
  • Copy of current Oregon LMT license
  • Contact information for 2-3 professional references


We are an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and students. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.

Apply