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Sports Instructor Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

City of Kentwood

Youth Sports Instructor

Kentwood, MI

$15/hr

Join Our Team as a Youth Sports Instructor! Join our team! The City of Kentwood is seeking a Youth Sports Instructor to lead fun, engaging, and skill-building sports programs for children ages 4-13.

City of Kentwood

Youth Sports Instructor

Kentwood, MI · On-site

$15/hr

Description Join Our Team as a Youth Sports Instructor! Join our team! The City of Kentwood is seeking a Youth Sports Instructor to lead fun, engaging, and skill-building sports programs for children ...

Goldfish Swim School MFO

Swim Instructor

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

Experience as a certified lifeguard, youth sports instructor/coach, camp counselor and/or childcare provider a plus. Certificates and Licenses : We provide training for Lifeguard, CPR/AED and First ...

Goldfish Swim School MFO

Swim Instructor

Brighton, MI · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Experience as a certified lifeguard, youth sports instructor/coach, camp counselor and/or childcare provider required. Two or more years as a swimming instructor required. Swimming experience ...

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Sports Instructor information

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$8

$18

$33

How much do sports instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for sports instructor in Michigan is $18.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.61 and $20.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are sports instructors?

Sports instructors are professionals who teach individuals or groups how to play specific sports or improve their athletic skills. They develop training programs, demonstrate techniques, and ensure participants follow safety guidelines. Sports instructors often work in schools, sports clubs, fitness centers, or as private coaches. Their goal is to help students enhance their performance, enjoy physical activity, and achieve their fitness or competitive objectives.

What Is a Sports Instructor?

A sports instructor works as a coach for a school or extracurricular organization to teach participants the rules of a given sport. In this position, your job duties are to coach the team, instill a spirit of healthy competition, and give team members pointers on how to improve their playing skills. You can work at various levels of education, even up to the university level. The higher you go, the more extensive and thorough the requirements for your qualifications and experience.

What are some common challenges sports instructors face when working with groups of varying skill levels?

Sports instructors often encounter the challenge of managing groups with participants who have different abilities and learning speeds. Balancing instruction so that beginners feel supported while more advanced members stay engaged requires careful planning and adaptability. Instructors typically use differentiated activities and flexible coaching techniques to ensure everyone progresses and feels included. Strong communication and observation skills are essential to effectively motivate and guide each group member according to their needs.

What is the difference between Sports Instructor vs Fitness Trainer?

AspectSports InstructorFitness Trainer
Required CertificationsSports coaching certifications, CPR/AEDPersonal training certifications, CPR/AED
Work EnvironmentSports clubs, schools, community centersGyms, fitness centers, private studios
Employer & Industry UsageSports organizations, schools, recreational programsHealth clubs, personal training companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Sports Instructors and Fitness Trainers share similar certifications and often work in health and recreation settings. However, Sports Instructors focus on coaching specific sports and athletic skills, while Fitness Trainers design general fitness programs for clients. Both roles require CPR/AED certification and are employed in sports, fitness, and community environments. The main difference lies in their focus: sports-specific coaching versus overall fitness training.

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

To thrive as a Sports Instructor, you need a solid background in physical education, coaching techniques, and a relevant certification or degree in sports science or a related field. Familiarity with training equipment, fitness assessment tools, and first aid certification are typically required. Strong communication, motivational, and leadership skills help build rapport with participants and foster a positive learning environment. These skills and qualifications are essential for ensuring safe, effective instruction and for inspiring athletes to reach their potential.
More about Sports Instructor jobs
What are popular job titles related to Sports Instructor jobs in Michigan? For Sports Instructor jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Sports Instructor jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Sports Instructor jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Sports Instructor jobs in MI? For Sports Instructor jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Sports Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sports Instructor job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,862 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Youth Sports Instructor

City of Kentwood

Kentwood, MI

$15/hr

Part-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Join Our Team as a Youth Sports Instructor!

Join our team! The City of Kentwood is seeking a Youth Sports Instructor to lead fun, engaging, and skill-building sports programs for children ages 4-13. In this role, you'll create a positive and supportive environment where participants can learn fundamentals, build confidence, and enjoy being active.

You'll plan and lead practices, camps, and clinics while emphasizing teamwork, sportsmanship, and safety. Our ideal candidate is energetic, dependable, and passionate about working with youth and promoting recreation in the community.

What You'll Do
  • Coach and lead youth sports programs, practices, camps, and clinics
  • Teach fundamental skills, rules, and sportsmanship
  • Create a fun, inclusive, and positive environment for all participants
  • Supervise participants and ensure safety at all times
  • Encourage teamwork, confidence, and positive social interaction
  • Maintain attendance records and complete required program documentation
  • Set up and maintain equipment and report any maintenance needs
  • Communicate effectively with participants, families, and staff
  • Demonstrate professionalism and strong customer service
About You

You're an enthusiastic and dependable leader who enjoys working with kids and sharing your passion for sports. You're comfortable leading groups, staying organized, and creating a positive experience for participants of all skill levels.

Minimum Requirements:

  • High school diploma or GED

  • One year of experience working with children in recreation, education, or similar programs

  • One year of experience playing or coaching multiple sports (or equivalent combination of experience and training)

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills

  • Ability to lead groups and maintain a safe, structured environment

For more details about responsibilities and qualifications,view the full job description here.

Pay & Perks
  • Pay Rate: $15 per hour
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Discounts on City recreation programs
  • Flexible scheduling based on program needs
  • Free CPR training opportunities for eligible employees
  • Opportunities for continued involvement in seasonal and recreation programming

Why join the Kentwood Parks and Recreation team:

The Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department enriches the lives of community members through recreational classes, programs, and activities. As well as providing green spaces, a community farmers market, community events, and very soon, a Community Center.

Within Kentwood's 21 square miles, Parks and Recreation oversees:

  • 15 parks covering more than 300 acres
  • 13+ miles of non-motorized trails
  • Splashpads, pickleball courts, playgrounds, and gathering spaces
  • Variety of rental facilities available
  • 1000+ recreation programs and community events each year

The City of Kentwood is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Apply today to join our supportive, dynamic team!

Apply