OPT Group Fitness Instructor Jobs
Group Fitness Instructor jobs are available to F-1 OPT students whose degree is in kinesiology, exercise science, sports management, or a related field. Your OPT work authorization must be directly tied to your major, so the role needs to connect clearly to your coursework and career goals.
Find OPT Group Fitness Instructor JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 22+ Group Fitness Instructor jobs
See all Group Fitness Instructor Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Group Fitness Instructor roles.
Get Access To All JobsHead Strength and Conditioning Coach
Classification: 12-Month Coach
Priority Screening Date: November 23, 2026
Recruitment Status: Open Until Filled
Appointment Date: Spring 2027
ABOUT CSUMB
California State University, Monterey Bay is a mid-sized university in California's Central Coast that grants undergraduate and graduate degrees. Powered by an inspiring Founding Vision Statement, CSUMB is part of the nation's largest four-year public university system, California State University, which educates nearly 460,000 students every year.
With a vibrant, diverse student body of over 7,000 students, CSU Monterey Bay is both a Minority Serving Institution and a Hispanic Serving Institution. Our staff and faculty transform students' lives with a focus on student success and engagement through experiential learning, service learning, and a strong emphasis on multicultural and global perspectives. CSUMB's sustainability goal is to be carbon neutral by 2030.
The university's Strategic Plan prioritizes inclusive excellence through recruiting and investing in developing a diverse body of faculty, staff and administrators. Many appreciate living and working close to the shores of beautiful Monterey Bay, with easy access to recreational areas from Big Sur to Santa Cruz. Nearby opportunities for collaborative research include working in the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and Silicon Valley, and with colleagues at local research universities, including UC Santa Cruz and Stanford University.
As one of the 22 campuses in the CSU system, CSUMB offers excellent benefits, including access to below-market-rate rental housing on East Campus, and competitive salaries for faculty and staff. With proximity to the San Francisco Bay Area and San Jose, opportunities for faculty, staff and students are as endless as the shores of the nearby Pacific Ocean.
PURPOSE:
Under the general direction of the Director of Athletics, the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach will be responsible for all aspects of the strength and conditioning program at Cal State University, Monterey Bay. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: leading, teaching, mentoring, coaching, facility scheduling, budget management, and overall administration of a successful NCAA Division II strength and conditioning program. Credentials should reflect proven success in coaching and certification by one of these national accredited governing bodies (CSCS, SCCC, USAW).
Cal State Monterey Bay is a NCAA Division II institution and a member of the California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) and Western Water Polo Association (WWPA). The university is committed to excellence in academics and athletics, gender equity and diversity in its programs, and a well-balanced, broad-based intercollegiate athletics program.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Provide leadership and oversight for all aspects of the strength and conditioning program in support of approximately 300 student-athletes across 14 varsity sports.
- Develop and implement comprehensive, sport-specific strength and conditioning programs focused on performance enhancement, injury prevention, and student-athlete development.
- Collaborate with head coaches and sports medicine staff to support student-athlete health, rehabilitation, return-to-play progression, and competitive readiness.
- Utilize evidence-based training methods, assessment protocols, and performance tracking systems to evaluate and improve student-athlete development and program effectiveness.
- Maintain accurate training documentation and program records.
- Manage daily operations of the strength and conditioning program, including facility scheduling equipment oversight, maintenance, and safety procedures.
- Supervise and mentor assistant coaches, volunteer staff, and student interns while fostering a positive and collaborative training environment.
- Coordinate and develop internship and experiential learning opportunities in partnership with academic programs, including Kinesiology.
- Support the department's commitment to academic excellence, student-athlete well-being, diversity, equity, and inclusion, and NCAA Division II values.
- Work effectively with a diverse population and provide a supportive, motivating and safe working environment for student-athletes.
- Promote and maintain compliance with institutional, conference, and NCAA rules, policies, and procedures.
- Plan and oversee camps, clinics, and community engagement initiatives that support departmental outreach and revenue generation.
- Oversee student workers/staff responsible for annual maintenance and cleaning of all sport performance equipment.
- Participate in professional development activities and remain current on trends and best practices in strength and conditioning and sport performance.
- Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
Knowledge and technical skills necessary to coach strength and conditioning. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coaches, student-athletes, students, faculty, administration and the community. Proven ability to lead and manage people.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in kinesiology, exercise science, or a related field with progressively responsible experience in strength and conditioning coaching. Comprehensive understanding of applied sports performance science. NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) or CSCCa Collegiate Strength and Conditioning Coaches Association (SCCC), or equivalent certification. CPR/AED and First Aid Certification. Demonstrated collegiate strength and conditioning experience.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Master's degree in a related field and 3-5 years of strength and conditioning coaching experience, preferably at the collegiate and professional level. Previous experience within NCAA Division I/II. Experience supervising graduate assistants and interns. NSCA Registered Strength and Conditioning Coach® (RSCC®) designation. Technical fluency with Microsoft Office Professional Suite, and Google mail and calendaring programs. Highly desirable: Demonstrated understanding of and commitment to CSUMB's Vision.
SPECIAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORKING CONDITIONS:
- Ability to perform physical activity, including lifting 25-50 pounds.
- Ability to demonstrate exercises and proper lifting techniques safely and effectively.
- Ability to stand for extended periods and actively coach and lead training sessions.
- Ability to coach outdoors in varying weather conditions.
- Willingness to travel and work evenings and weekends.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:
All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check (including a criminal records check).
The person holding this position will have a duty to report to the Campus Title IX Officer information pertaining to discrimination, harassment, sexual misconduct, sexual exploitation, dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, and retaliation and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order EO 1095, EO 1096, and EO 1097 as a condition of employment.
The person holding this position is considered a "mandated reporter" under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment.
Must possess and maintain a valid license to drive in the State of California, pass the Defensive Training Class, and be insurable under the University's liability coverage.
The incumbent is required to maintain confidentiality as outlined in the Department of Education's Family Educational Rights and Privacy and California's Educational Code Chapter 13 regarding sensitive student issues.
Must be able to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, on a regular basis.
Working in the State of California is a condition of employment.
COMPENSATION:
Anticipated Hiring Salary Range: $7,830 to $10,849* mo
CSU Salary Schedule
CSUMB provides pay scales representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for this position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, and CSU systemwide pay for comparable jobs.
BENEFITS:
CSUMB offers a premium benefit package that includes outstanding health, dental & vision plans; a fee waiver education program; and membership in the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS). For more information, visit: Employee Benefits Summary. The University Corporation at Monterey Bay also provides access to affordable housing near main campus. The allocation of housing is subject to several factors, including availability, eligibility criteria, and specific program guidelines. For more information, visit: https://csumb.edu/corporation/employee-housing
APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
For full consideration, applicants must complete the required online application and submit required documents by the priority screening date found at csumb.edu/jobs. Application submissions received after the application screening date will be reviewed at the discretion of the University. Materials submitted become the property of CSUMB and will not be returned.
CSUMB is not a sponsoring agency for faculty positions.
Reasonable accommodations will be provided for qualified applicants with disabilities who self-disclose by contacting Human Resources at (831) 582-3389 or humanresources@csumb.edu.
GENERAL INFORMATION:
CSUMB hires only individuals lawfully authorized to work in the United States and is an E-Verify employer. In compliance with state and federal crime awareness and campus security legislation, including The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act, California Education Code section 67380, and the Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA), the Cal State University, Monterey Bay Annual Security and Fire Safety Report is available at: https://csumb.edu/security-report/
The health and safety of our students, faculty, and staff remain our highest priority. While on campus, students, faculty, staff, and the community will be expected to follow all campus safety mandates.
CSUMB is a smoke and tobacco-free campus.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER:
CSUMB is an Equal Opportunity employer seeking to recruit and support a broadly diverse community of faculty and staff. We value and celebrate diversity in all its forms and strive to foster an inclusive culture built on respect that affirms inter-group relations and builds cohesion. We consider qualified applicants for employment for their anticipated contributions and without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, medical condition, pregnancy, marital status, veteran status, or disability.
Head Strength and Conditioning Coach
Classification: 12-Month Coach
Priority Screening Date: November 23, 2026
Recruitment Status: Open Until Filled
Appointment Date: Spring 2027
ABOUT CSUMB
California State University, Monterey Bay is a mid-sized university in California's Central Coast that grants undergraduate and graduate degrees. Powered by an inspiring Founding Vision Statement, CSUMB is part of the nation's largest four-year public university system, California State University, which educates nearly 460,000 students every year.
With a vibrant, diverse student body of over 7,000 students, CSU Monterey Bay is both a Minority Serving Institution and a Hispanic Serving Institution. Our staff and faculty transform students' lives with a focus on student success and engagement through experiential learning, service learning, and a strong emphasis on multicultural and global perspectives. CSUMB's sustainability goal is to be carbon neutral by 2030.
The university's Strategic Plan prioritizes inclusive excellence through recruiting and investing in developing a diverse body of faculty, staff and administrators. Many appreciate living and working close to the shores of beautiful Monterey Bay, with easy access to recreational areas from Big Sur to Santa Cruz. Nearby opportunities for collaborative research include working in the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and Silicon Valley, and with colleagues at local research universities, including UC Santa Cruz and Stanford University.
As one of the 22 campuses in the CSU system, CSUMB offers excellent benefits, including access to below-market-rate rental housing on East Campus, and competitive salaries for faculty and staff. With proximity to the San Francisco Bay Area and San Jose, opportunities for faculty, staff and students are as endless as the shores of the nearby Pacific Ocean.
PURPOSE:
Under the general direction of the Director of Athletics, the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach will be responsible for all aspects of the strength and conditioning program at Cal State University, Monterey Bay. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: leading, teaching, mentoring, coaching, facility scheduling, budget management, and overall administration of a successful NCAA Division II strength and conditioning program. Credentials should reflect proven success in coaching and certification by one of these national accredited governing bodies (CSCS, SCCC, USAW).
Cal State Monterey Bay is a NCAA Division II institution and a member of the California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) and Western Water Polo Association (WWPA). The university is committed to excellence in academics and athletics, gender equity and diversity in its programs, and a well-balanced, broad-based intercollegiate athletics program.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Provide leadership and oversight for all aspects of the strength and conditioning program in support of approximately 300 student-athletes across 14 varsity sports.
- Develop and implement comprehensive, sport-specific strength and conditioning programs focused on performance enhancement, injury prevention, and student-athlete development.
- Collaborate with head coaches and sports medicine staff to support student-athlete health, rehabilitation, return-to-play progression, and competitive readiness.
- Utilize evidence-based training methods, assessment protocols, and performance tracking systems to evaluate and improve student-athlete development and program effectiveness.
- Maintain accurate training documentation and program records.
- Manage daily operations of the strength and conditioning program, including facility scheduling equipment oversight, maintenance, and safety procedures.
- Supervise and mentor assistant coaches, volunteer staff, and student interns while fostering a positive and collaborative training environment.
- Coordinate and develop internship and experiential learning opportunities in partnership with academic programs, including Kinesiology.
- Support the department's commitment to academic excellence, student-athlete well-being, diversity, equity, and inclusion, and NCAA Division II values.
- Work effectively with a diverse population and provide a supportive, motivating and safe working environment for student-athletes.
- Promote and maintain compliance with institutional, conference, and NCAA rules, policies, and procedures.
- Plan and oversee camps, clinics, and community engagement initiatives that support departmental outreach and revenue generation.
- Oversee student workers/staff responsible for annual maintenance and cleaning of all sport performance equipment.
- Participate in professional development activities and remain current on trends and best practices in strength and conditioning and sport performance.
- Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
Knowledge and technical skills necessary to coach strength and conditioning. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coaches, student-athletes, students, faculty, administration and the community. Proven ability to lead and manage people.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in kinesiology, exercise science, or a related field with progressively responsible experience in strength and conditioning coaching. Comprehensive understanding of applied sports performance science. NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) or CSCCa Collegiate Strength and Conditioning Coaches Association (SCCC), or equivalent certification. CPR/AED and First Aid Certification. Demonstrated collegiate strength and conditioning experience.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Master's degree in a related field and 3-5 years of strength and conditioning coaching experience, preferably at the collegiate and professional level. Previous experience within NCAA Division I/II. Experience supervising graduate assistants and interns. NSCA Registered Strength and Conditioning Coach® (RSCC®) designation. Technical fluency with Microsoft Office Professional Suite, and Google mail and calendaring programs. Highly desirable: Demonstrated understanding of and commitment to CSUMB's Vision.
SPECIAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORKING CONDITIONS:
- Ability to perform physical activity, including lifting 25-50 pounds.
- Ability to demonstrate exercises and proper lifting techniques safely and effectively.
- Ability to stand for extended periods and actively coach and lead training sessions.
- Ability to coach outdoors in varying weather conditions.
- Willingness to travel and work evenings and weekends.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:
All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check (including a criminal records check).
The person holding this position will have a duty to report to the Campus Title IX Officer information pertaining to discrimination, harassment, sexual misconduct, sexual exploitation, dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, and retaliation and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order EO 1095, EO 1096, and EO 1097 as a condition of employment.
The person holding this position is considered a "mandated reporter" under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment.
Must possess and maintain a valid license to drive in the State of California, pass the Defensive Training Class, and be insurable under the University's liability coverage.
The incumbent is required to maintain confidentiality as outlined in the Department of Education's Family Educational Rights and Privacy and California's Educational Code Chapter 13 regarding sensitive student issues.
Must be able to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, on a regular basis.
Working in the State of California is a condition of employment.
COMPENSATION:
Anticipated Hiring Salary Range: $7,830 to $10,849* mo
CSU Salary Schedule
CSUMB provides pay scales representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for this position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, and CSU systemwide pay for comparable jobs.
BENEFITS:
CSUMB offers a premium benefit package that includes outstanding health, dental & vision plans; a fee waiver education program; and membership in the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS). For more information, visit: Employee Benefits Summary. The University Corporation at Monterey Bay also provides access to affordable housing near main campus. The allocation of housing is subject to several factors, including availability, eligibility criteria, and specific program guidelines. For more information, visit: https://csumb.edu/corporation/employee-housing
APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
For full consideration, applicants must complete the required online application and submit required documents by the priority screening date found at csumb.edu/jobs. Application submissions received after the application screening date will be reviewed at the discretion of the University. Materials submitted become the property of CSUMB and will not be returned.
CSUMB is not a sponsoring agency for faculty positions.
Reasonable accommodations will be provided for qualified applicants with disabilities who self-disclose by contacting Human Resources at (831) 582-3389 or humanresources@csumb.edu.
GENERAL INFORMATION:
CSUMB hires only individuals lawfully authorized to work in the United States and is an E-Verify employer. In compliance with state and federal crime awareness and campus security legislation, including The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act, California Education Code section 67380, and the Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA), the Cal State University, Monterey Bay Annual Security and Fire Safety Report is available at: https://csumb.edu/security-report/
The health and safety of our students, faculty, and staff remain our highest priority. While on campus, students, faculty, staff, and the community will be expected to follow all campus safety mandates.
CSUMB is a smoke and tobacco-free campus.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER:
CSUMB is an Equal Opportunity employer seeking to recruit and support a broadly diverse community of faculty and staff. We value and celebrate diversity in all its forms and strive to foster an inclusive culture built on respect that affirms inter-group relations and builds cohesion. We consider qualified applicants for employment for their anticipated contributions and without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, medical condition, pregnancy, marital status, veteran status, or disability.
See all OPT Group Fitness Instructor Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Group Fitness Instructor Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in Group Fitness Instructor
Frame your OPT as a hiring advantage
Employers don't need to file petitions for OPT hires. When reaching out, clarify that you already have work authorization and the process requires no immediate sponsorship cost or paperwork on their end.
Connect your degree to the role explicitly
USCIS requires OPT employment to be directly related to your major. In applications, spell out how your kinesiology, exercise science, or health promotion degree maps to the Group Fitness Instructor responsibilities you'll perform.
Prioritize employers with multiple locations
Gyms and fitness studios with multiple sites are more likely to have HR processes already in place for work authorization questions, making them more comfortable hiring OPT students than independent studios.
Get your certifications before you apply
Holding an active ACE, NASM, or AFAA certification signals professional readiness and removes one barrier employers use to screen candidates. It also strengthens the case that your work qualifies as career-related employment.
Target university recreation centers and campus gyms
Campus recreation departments regularly hire OPT students, understand F-1 work authorization, and often have HR staff familiar with the documentation process. These roles also tend to have stable hours suited to OPT requirements.
Document every employment connection to your field
Keep records showing how each Group Fitness Instructor role relates to your degree. If USCIS or your DSO ever asks, you need clear documentation tying your day-to-day responsibilities to your academic program and career goals.
Group Fitness Instructor OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Does Group Fitness Instructor work qualify for F-1 OPT?
Yes, if your degree is in a directly related field such as kinesiology, exercise science, physical education, or health promotion. The role must connect to your major, not just your interests. A fitness instructor position held by someone with a business or engineering degree would not meet the OPT employment requirement without a clear programmatic connection.
Can I work part-time as a Group Fitness Instructor on OPT?
Yes. During pre-completion OPT you're limited to 20 hours per week while school is in session. During post-completion OPT you can work full-time, part-time, or a combination of jobs as long as you're working at least 20 hours per week in total. Group fitness roles that involve multiple classes across different locations can count together toward that threshold.
Can I teach at multiple gyms or studios simultaneously on OPT?
Yes. OPT allows multiple concurrent employers as long as each role is directly related to your degree and your combined hours meet the 20-hour minimum during post-completion OPT. You must report each employer to your DSO within 10 days of starting. Keep your SEVP portal records updated to avoid any compliance issues that could affect your status.
Where can I find Group Fitness Instructor jobs that are open to OPT students?
Migrate Mate is specifically built for F-1 OPT and visa-sponsored job seekers, so listings there are filtered for work authorization compatibility. General job boards don't filter by OPT eligibility, which means you often spend time applying to roles where the employer won't hire someone on work authorization. Migrate Mate removes that friction.
What happens to my OPT if a gym closes or my contract ends?
You have a 90-day unemployment buffer during post-completion OPT. If your role ends, you're not immediately out of status, but you need to secure a new qualifying position before that buffer runs out. Notify your DSO promptly when employment ends. Part-time class schedules can sometimes be restructured across employers to maintain your 20-hour weekly minimum while you transition.