Lead Martial Arts/Fitness Instructor
Beyond Karate
Lead Martial Arts/Fitness Instructor
Full Time • Beyond Karate
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Opportunity for advancement
- Training & development
Lead Martial Arts/Fitness Instructor
About Beyond Karate
Beyond Karate (BK) is more than just a dojo; it's a supportive community where friendships are forged, goals are achieved, and personal growth flourishes. We offer classes in karate, self-defense, creative workshops, life skills, and tutoring, all tailored to each student's unique needs. Our dynamic karate and self-defense classes are led by experienced martial artists who serve as dedicated mentors. They provide more than just physical techniques — they instill confidence and empowerment.
Our entire team is committed to these key traits that are embedded in every role. These critical traits are:
- Collaborative: A patient and kind spirit seeking to learn the unique needs of our diverse and neurodivergent team members, students, and their families
- Problem-solver: An ability to multitask situations to determine the most effective solutions in a dynamic environment
- Team-oriented: Aligned with BK’s mission of growth, empowerment, purpose, and community
- Integrity: Confidentiality with sensitive information shared with BK
Role Summary
The Lead Karate Instructor is the head of instructional quality and student engagement across all belt levels. They serve as both a teacher and mentor, leading classes, developing other instructors, and upholding the studio’s training philosophy and discipline standards. This role is key to student retention and program excellence.
- Reports to: Program Manager, Training and Development by Sensei
- Job Type: Part-Time to Full Time
- Work Setting: Onsite in Santa Monica, CA
- Schedule: Typically, Monday-Friday between the dojo’s business hours of 10 am-6 pm
- Pay $22-$26/hour for experienced instructors, with opportunities for advancement.
Key Responsibilities
Instruction & Class Leadership
- Teach dynamic, age-appropriate martial arts classes with enthusiasm and clarity
- Demonstrate proper technique, discipline, and respect in every session
- Modify instructions to accommodate varying skill levels and learning needs
- Lead by example in professionalism, punctuality, and personal martial arts growth
Curriculum Integrity
- Ensure consistency in curriculum delivery across all classes and instructors
- Collaborate with the Program Manager and Leadership to update the curriculum as needed, be sure instructors are briefed also.
- Prepare students for belt testing through proper pacing and evaluation
- Maintain student progress records and give regular feedback
related to the dojo
Instructor Mentorship
- Mentor assistant and junior instructors through modeling, coaching, and feedback
- Help train new hires on class structure, safety, and teaching philosophy
- Lead pre-class briefings or post-class debriefs as needed
Student Relationships & Engagement
- Build strong, respectful rapport with students and families
- Reinforce values such as focus, perseverance, humility, and self-discipline
- Address student behavior or performance issues constructively
- Attend and lead belt tests, graduation events, and community demonstrations
Safety & Studio Standards
- Enforce safety policies during drills, sparring, and warm-ups
- Ensure the training environment is clean, organized, and properly equipped
- Report maintenance or behavioral issues to the Operations or Program Manager
Qualifications
- Black belt rank (or equivalent), with certification in teaching or instruction
- Proven Karate instruction experience
- Leadership qualities and a passion for developing others
- CPR/First Aid certified
- Strong communication, energy, and presence in group settings
- As with all personnel, a background check is required
Key Traits for Success
- Integrity and confidentiality with sensitive information; if documented, stored securely in BK electronic systems
- Collaborative spirit with knowledge of diverse and neurodivergent team members, students, and families
- Able to multitask and problem-solve in a dynamic environment
- Team-oriented and aligned with the studio’s mission of growth, empowerment, purpose, and community
Compensation: $22.00 - $26.00 per hour
At Beyond Karate, we provide physical training beyond martial arts, facilitating programs like Karate, Diverse Camps, Workshops, Academic Tutoring, Life Skills, Leadership Works Training, and other activities geared towards adults, families, teens and children, with the majority of our students having disabilities or special needs. Our goal is to support and empower growth, self-esteem and teach the tools required to live life with greater confidence and purpose. We meet each student where they are and create a plan for them that highlights their abilities and encourages them to level up for success!
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