Workstrong Trainer (On-site)

This posting will remain open until filled with initial applicant review expected on or around September 8, 2026.

About the University

The University of California, Merced, is the newest of the University of California system's 10 campuses and one of the youngest universities to be designated an R1 research university. With approximately 9,100 undergraduate and graduate students, UC Merced is a smaller, more intimate campus compared to its sister campuses, while equipped and staffed as a cutting-edge, 21st-century research institution. The campus offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs, with strong research and academic partnerships and a growing community in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley.

Ranked in the top 30 among the best public universities in the nation by U.S. News and World Report and #1 for social mobility by the Wall Street Journal, UC Merced provides world-class educational opportunities to dynamic and enterprising students. In partnership with UC San Francisco, UC Merced has launched a medical education program to supply the Valley with culturally competent healthcare providers. The campus enjoys a special connection with nearby Yosemite National Park, leads in sustainability, and accelerates economic development in the region.

About the Role

Provides instruction in non-credited recreational programs for the campus community. Applies full knowledge and experience in recreational sports activities to create and adjust program methods and processes to provide safe instruction to participants. Trainers develop and lead exercise programming for a variety of levels, including organizing exercise programs, cueing, participant setup, safety, and execution. Trainers model and ensure adherence to Rec Sports Community Agreements and activity guidelines while serving as a resource to educate members on fitness and wellness.

Training may take place in-person on campus or virtually through live-streamed and on-demand content. This is a part-time (25% FTE), 3-year contract position, fully on-site.

Responsibilities

• Provides advanced or specialized activity instruction to program participants, individually or in groups, at recreation facilities, other campus locations, or virtually through live-streamed and on-demand content.
• Programs and periodizes various types of training, including strength, cardiovascular, flexibility, balance, speed/agility/quickness, plyometrics, and core training.
• Works with students, faculty/staff, and community members, adapting programs with appropriate modifications, progressions, and regressions of exercises.
• Adapts workout routines based on available equipment and resources in a busy environment.
• Maintains a welcoming and supportive environment, conducting energizing, fun, and safe sessions for all fitness levels while motivating clients.
• Answers participant questions to support their healthy living and wellness goals.
• Builds effective, authentic relationships with members and facilitates connections among participants.
• Ensures fitness spaces provide a safe environment, including proper storage and condition of equipment.
• Instructs clients on correct equipment usage and body mechanics.
• Maintains required professional certifications, including CPR/AED, and stays current on teaching methods, techniques, and skills through continuing education.
• Participates in required professional development activities.

Requirements

• High school diploma and/or equivalent certification/experience/training.
• Bachelor’s degree in a related field from an accredited institution (preferred).
• One year of experience working with students.
• Current certification with one of the following organizations: NASM-CPT, ACSM-CPT, NSCA-CPT, or ACE-CPT.
• Red Cross CPR with AED certification.
• Standard First Aid Training Certification (preferred).
• FRC (Functional Range Conditioning) certification (preferred).

Skills

• Highly effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Basic computer knowledge.
• Knowledge of campus policies and procedures.
• Previous experience developing personal training programs for individuals.
• Working knowledge of program activity practices and required procedures.
• Health coaching experience.

Pay

The hourly range the University reasonably expects to pay for this position is $50/hr. Offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience.

Background check required.