Faculty/Staff Instructor - 2026/2027: Aquatics

About the role

The Faculty and Staff Fitness (FSF) program, part of the School of Exercise, Sport, and Health Sciences in the College of Health at Oregon State University, invites applications for one or more Aquatics Fitness Instructor positions to teach FSF courses during the 2026–2027 fiscal year. These are professional faculty positions. Applications submitted to this recruitment pool are reviewed on an as-needed basis; qualified candidates will be contacted when positions become available. The FSF program has supported employee wellness at OSU since 1984 and currently serves more than 800 participants each academic term through a diverse range of fitness offerings, including aquatics, aerobics, conditioning, mind/body, and strength training classes. Aquatics fitness instructors play an important role in advancing the program's mission by leading effective, evidence-based fitness experiences that encourage lifelong physical activity and wellness. Anticipated start date: October 15, 2026.

Responsibilities

• Instruct 2–5 classes per week
• Class preparation
• Maintain a safe and inclusive environment
• Foster participant engagement
• Class programming that accommodates diverse fitness levels and abilities
• Substitute teach when needed for other classes

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and one (1) year of teaching experience in the field of aquatics or swim skill instruction for a minimum of 2 one-hour classes per week (approximately 104 hours annually), or an equivalent amount of instruction experience; OR
• Associate's degree in Exercise Sports Science or relevant field and three (3) years teaching experience in the field of fitness, aquatics, or aerobics; OR
• High School Diploma or equivalent and five (5) years teaching experience AND certification in the field of fitness, aquatics, or aerobics
• CPR/AED and First Aid certifications by the start of classes
• Demonstrated ability to design, teach, and assess courses that support inclusive learning principles and promote equitable teaching practices, to the benefit of all learners

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's Degree in Kinesiology or relevant discipline
• Professional certification in the field of aquatics or swim skill instruction (preferred certifying organizations: AEA, ACSM, ACE, AFAA, SCW, US Water Fitness Association, EXOS, ASFA, AFPA, Water in Motion)
• Enrolled in or completed a Kinesiology/Public Health program and completed a practicum/internship within the Faculty Staff Fitness organization in a field applicable to the position
• 5+ years teaching experience

Schedule

This position is hourly and requires the ability to demonstrate the physical fitness activity to participants for the duration of the class. The role may require lifting up to 40 pounds, bending, twisting, and performing other physical demands associated with fitness activity classes. Classes are offered in short blocks throughout the day and week, including early mornings, lunch times, and evenings (e.g., an instructor may teach the same class for one hour on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday).

Pay

Hourly, $20.46–$27.92 per hour. Starting salary is commensurate with skills, education, and experience.