Group Exercise Instructor Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Group exercise instructors typically need H-1B visa sponsorship for permanent positions at fitn visaess chains, corporate wellness programs, or resort facilities. While specialty occupation requirements can be challenging due to varied educational backgrounds, instructors with degrees in exercise science, kinesiology, or related fields have stronger cases. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
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The Group Exercise Coordinator plays a key role in fostering a culture of wellness by designing, organizing, and overseeing dynamic group exercise programs that support the physical and mental well-being of diverse community members. This position is responsible for collaborating with instructors, scheduling classes, evaluating program effectiveness, and ensuring that offerings are inclusive, engaging, and aligned with the overall mission of promoting healthy lifestyles. The Coordinator also serves as a liaison between participants and staff, helping to build strong relationships and a supportive environment that encourages long-term participation and community connection.
ENTITY
Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC - Univ)
WORKER TYPE
Employee
WORKER SUB-TYPE
Regular
COST CENTER
CC002244 ESL Wellness Center
PAY RATE TYPE
Hourly
PAY GRADE
University-GEN08
PAY RANGE
45,300.00 - 61,100.00 - 77,000.00
SCHEDULED WEEKLY HOURS
40
WORK SHIFT
JOB DESCRIPTION
Program Management 25%
- Manage a group exercise program and schedule consisting of over 30 classes held weekly.
- Develop, implement, and oversee revenue-generating fitness programs for the Wellness Center.
- Assist in tracking participant and program data to achieve overall program goals. Recommend modifications to the program based on goal achievement.
- Proficiently use the member management system to input programs and individual data. Utilize the system to track financial details, program revenue, and participation levels.
- Implement a system to maintain attendance records for classes.
- Support the Marketing Director in creating and executing marketing campaigns. Collaborate with the Marketing Director on crafting sales and marketing materials.
- Create and execute a plan to increase the number of participants in group exercise at the MUSC Wellness Center.
- Ensuring that all group fitness areas are well-maintained, properly equipped, and adequately stocked with supplies.
Team Management 25%
- Support the Marketing Director in creating and executing marketing campaigns. Collaborate with the Marketing Director on crafting sales and marketing materials.
- Supervise all employees participating in the group exercise program.
- Training fitness instructors systematically through formal programs, materials, and communication systems is essential for the success of health and wellness initiatives.
- Responsible for updating and maintaining communication between staff and leadership.
- Review the staff performance biannually to identify areas for improvement.
- Ensure that all timecards and mandatory trainings are completed by the deadline. It is important to review all timecards to ensure accuracy in recording hours worked.
- Lead and conduct monthly meetings with the group exercise staff.
Leadership Support 20%
- Occasionally serve as manager on duty on nights and weekends as needed.
- Develop professional relationships with members to promote member retention and assist with member sales campaigns.
- Act as a leader in emergency situations by promptly reporting any accidents or incidents as outlined in the Emergency Action Plan. Guarantee the safety of all individuals members, guests, and program participants by ensuring strict adherence to the Emergency Action Plan.
- Listening attentively to members' complaints or comments, the individual reports incidents, and accidents promptly, ensuring appropriate follow-up and action.
- Collaborate with the fitness staff to suggest improvements and enhance the overall fitness programs.
Fitness Instruction 15%
- Assist in teaching 6+ classes per week in different group exercise formats.
- Design and implement engaging and safe class formats and exercises tailored to diverse populations, spanning from 18 to 80 years old. These classes will cater to both beginners and long-time participants with varying physical abilities and conditioning levels.
Event Planning and Implementation 15%
- Assist in implementing and designing wellness and health events aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle and enhancing member engagement.
- Assist with internal and external promotional opportunities to promote the MUSC Wellness Center.
- Providing coverage as a substitute instructor for group fitness classes when necessary.
MINIMUM EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE
A bachelor's degree and 2 years of relevant program experience.
Accredited personal training and/or group exercise certification.
CPR and AED certified within 6 months of assuming position.
OTHER REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Must be able to work well with various member populations and people of all ages.
- Must possess ability to complete multiple tasks with detail without close supervision.
- Must possess ability to solve practical problems in a variety of situations.
- Must be able to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
- Must possess ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing and establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and the public.
- Must be able to effectively operate telephone, computer, and various office equipment and software.
- Must possess ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts, interest, commissions, proportions, and percentages.
- Must possess strong customer service skills.
ADDITIONAL JOB DESCRIPTION
Minimum Requirements: A bachelor's degree and one year relevant program experience.
Physical Requirements: (Note: The following descriptions are applicable to this section: Continuous - 6-8 hours per shift; Frequent - 2-6 hours per shift; Infrequent - 0-2 hours per shift) Ability to perform job functions in an upright position. (Frequent) Ability to perform job functions in a seated position. (Frequent) Ability to perform job functions while walking/mobile. (Frequent) Ability to work indoors. (Continuous) Ability to work outdoors in all weather and temperature extremes. (Infrequent) Ability to work in confined/cramped spaces. (Infrequent) Ability to perform job functions from kneeling positions. (Infrequent) Ability to squat and perform job functions. (Infrequent) Ability to perform 'pinching' operations. (Infrequent) Ability to fully use both hands/arms. (Frequent) Ability to perform repetitive motions with hands/wrists/elbows and shoulders. (Frequent) Ability to reach in all directions. (Frequent) Possess good finger dexterity. (Continuous) Ability to maintain tactile sensory functions. (Continuous) Ability to lift and carry 15 lbs., unassisted. (Infrequent) Ability to lower objects, up to 15 lbs., from height of 36 inches to floor level, unassisted. (Infrequent) Ability to push/pull objects, up to 15 lbs., unassisted. (Infrequent) Ability to maintain 20/40 vision, corrected, in one eye or with both eyes. (Continuous) Ability to see and recognize objects close at hand. (Frequent) Ability to see and recognize objects at a distance. (Frequent) Ability to determine distance/relationship between objects; depth perception. (Frequent) Good peripheral vision capabilities. (Continuous) Ability to maintain hearing acuity, with correction. (Continuous) Ability to perform gross motor functions with frequent fine motor movements. (Frequent)
If you like working with energetic enthusiastic individuals, you will enjoy your career with us!
The Medical University of South Carolina is an Equal Opportunity Employer. MUSC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, age, sex, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, protected veteran status, family or parental status, or any other status protected by state laws and/or federal regulations. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment based upon applicable qualifications, merit and business need.
Medical University of South Carolina participates in the federal E-Verify program to confirm the identity and employment authorization of all newly hired employees. For further information about the E-Verify program, please click here: http://www.uscis.gov/e-verify/employees
INTRODUCTION
The Group Exercise Coordinator plays a key role in fostering a culture of wellness by designing, organizing, and overseeing dynamic group exercise programs that support the physical and mental well-being of diverse community members. This position is responsible for collaborating with instructors, scheduling classes, evaluating program effectiveness, and ensuring that offerings are inclusive, engaging, and aligned with the overall mission of promoting healthy lifestyles. The Coordinator also serves as a liaison between participants and staff, helping to build strong relationships and a supportive environment that encourages long-term participation and community connection.
ENTITY
Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC - Univ)
WORKER TYPE
Employee
WORKER SUB-TYPE
Regular
COST CENTER
CC002244 ESL Wellness Center
PAY RATE TYPE
Hourly
PAY GRADE
University-GEN08
PAY RANGE
45,300.00 - 61,100.00 - 77,000.00
SCHEDULED WEEKLY HOURS
40
WORK SHIFT
JOB DESCRIPTION
Program Management 25%
- Manage a group exercise program and schedule consisting of over 30 classes held weekly.
- Develop, implement, and oversee revenue-generating fitness programs for the Wellness Center.
- Assist in tracking participant and program data to achieve overall program goals. Recommend modifications to the program based on goal achievement.
- Proficiently use the member management system to input programs and individual data. Utilize the system to track financial details, program revenue, and participation levels.
- Implement a system to maintain attendance records for classes.
- Support the Marketing Director in creating and executing marketing campaigns. Collaborate with the Marketing Director on crafting sales and marketing materials.
- Create and execute a plan to increase the number of participants in group exercise at the MUSC Wellness Center.
- Ensuring that all group fitness areas are well-maintained, properly equipped, and adequately stocked with supplies.
Team Management 25%
- Support the Marketing Director in creating and executing marketing campaigns. Collaborate with the Marketing Director on crafting sales and marketing materials.
- Supervise all employees participating in the group exercise program.
- Training fitness instructors systematically through formal programs, materials, and communication systems is essential for the success of health and wellness initiatives.
- Responsible for updating and maintaining communication between staff and leadership.
- Review the staff performance biannually to identify areas for improvement.
- Ensure that all timecards and mandatory trainings are completed by the deadline. It is important to review all timecards to ensure accuracy in recording hours worked.
- Lead and conduct monthly meetings with the group exercise staff.
Leadership Support 20%
- Occasionally serve as manager on duty on nights and weekends as needed.
- Develop professional relationships with members to promote member retention and assist with member sales campaigns.
- Act as a leader in emergency situations by promptly reporting any accidents or incidents as outlined in the Emergency Action Plan. Guarantee the safety of all individuals members, guests, and program participants by ensuring strict adherence to the Emergency Action Plan.
- Listening attentively to members' complaints or comments, the individual reports incidents, and accidents promptly, ensuring appropriate follow-up and action.
- Collaborate with the fitness staff to suggest improvements and enhance the overall fitness programs.
Fitness Instruction 15%
- Assist in teaching 6+ classes per week in different group exercise formats.
- Design and implement engaging and safe class formats and exercises tailored to diverse populations, spanning from 18 to 80 years old. These classes will cater to both beginners and long-time participants with varying physical abilities and conditioning levels.
Event Planning and Implementation 15%
- Assist in implementing and designing wellness and health events aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle and enhancing member engagement.
- Assist with internal and external promotional opportunities to promote the MUSC Wellness Center.
- Providing coverage as a substitute instructor for group fitness classes when necessary.
MINIMUM EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE
A bachelor's degree and 2 years of relevant program experience.
Accredited personal training and/or group exercise certification.
CPR and AED certified within 6 months of assuming position.
OTHER REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Must be able to work well with various member populations and people of all ages.
- Must possess ability to complete multiple tasks with detail without close supervision.
- Must possess ability to solve practical problems in a variety of situations.
- Must be able to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
- Must possess ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing and establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and the public.
- Must be able to effectively operate telephone, computer, and various office equipment and software.
- Must possess ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts, interest, commissions, proportions, and percentages.
- Must possess strong customer service skills.
ADDITIONAL JOB DESCRIPTION
Minimum Requirements: A bachelor's degree and one year relevant program experience.
Physical Requirements: (Note: The following descriptions are applicable to this section: Continuous - 6-8 hours per shift; Frequent - 2-6 hours per shift; Infrequent - 0-2 hours per shift) Ability to perform job functions in an upright position. (Frequent) Ability to perform job functions in a seated position. (Frequent) Ability to perform job functions while walking/mobile. (Frequent) Ability to work indoors. (Continuous) Ability to work outdoors in all weather and temperature extremes. (Infrequent) Ability to work in confined/cramped spaces. (Infrequent) Ability to perform job functions from kneeling positions. (Infrequent) Ability to squat and perform job functions. (Infrequent) Ability to perform 'pinching' operations. (Infrequent) Ability to fully use both hands/arms. (Frequent) Ability to perform repetitive motions with hands/wrists/elbows and shoulders. (Frequent) Ability to reach in all directions. (Frequent) Possess good finger dexterity. (Continuous) Ability to maintain tactile sensory functions. (Continuous) Ability to lift and carry 15 lbs., unassisted. (Infrequent) Ability to lower objects, up to 15 lbs., from height of 36 inches to floor level, unassisted. (Infrequent) Ability to push/pull objects, up to 15 lbs., unassisted. (Infrequent) Ability to maintain 20/40 vision, corrected, in one eye or with both eyes. (Continuous) Ability to see and recognize objects close at hand. (Frequent) Ability to see and recognize objects at a distance. (Frequent) Ability to determine distance/relationship between objects; depth perception. (Frequent) Good peripheral vision capabilities. (Continuous) Ability to maintain hearing acuity, with correction. (Continuous) Ability to perform gross motor functions with frequent fine motor movements. (Frequent)
If you like working with energetic enthusiastic individuals, you will enjoy your career with us!
The Medical University of South Carolina is an Equal Opportunity Employer. MUSC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, age, sex, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, protected veteran status, family or parental status, or any other status protected by state laws and/or federal regulations. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment based upon applicable qualifications, merit and business need.
Medical University of South Carolina participates in the federal E-Verify program to confirm the identity and employment authorization of all newly hired employees. For further information about the E-Verify program, please click here: http://www.uscis.gov/e-verify/employees
See all 453+ Group Exercise Instructor Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Group Exercise Instructor roles.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Group Exercise Instructor Jobs
Target corporate wellness programs over local gyms
Large corporations with employee wellness centers are more likely to sponsor H-1B visas than independent fitness studios. They have immigration budgets and understand the specialty occupation requirements better.
Emphasize specialized certifications and training
Highlight advanced certifications like corrective exercise specialist, yoga therapy, or rehabilitation fitness to strengthen your specialty occupation case beyond basic fitness instruction qualifications.
Consider resort and hospitality fitness roles
Luxury resorts and cruise lines often sponsor international fitness professionals for specialized programs. These employers regularly navigate visa sponsorship for hospitality staff across multiple positions.
Document your degree's direct connection to fitness
Exercise science, kinesiology, or sports medicine degrees clearly qualify. If your degree is in a related field, prepare documentation showing coursework in anatomy, physiology, and exercise methodology.
Build a portfolio of specialized programs you've developed
Create evidence of unique fitness programs, injury prevention protocols, or wellness curricula you've designed. This demonstrates the specialized knowledge that justifies H-1B sponsorship requirements.
Network through fitness industry conferences and certifications
ACSM, NCHPAD, and other professional conferences connect you with corporate wellness directors and resort fitness managers who understand international hiring and visa sponsorship processes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do group exercise instructors qualify for H-1B visa sponsorship?
Yes, but the position must require specialized knowledge and typically a bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or related field. Generic fitness instruction roles often don't meet specialty occupation requirements, but positions involving program development, injury prevention, or therapeutic exercise have stronger cases.
What degree do I need for visa sponsorship as a fitness instructor?
Exercise science, kinesiology, sports medicine, or physical education degrees work best. Some employers accept related degrees like biology or health promotion if combined with specialized certifications. The key is demonstrating that your education directly relates to designing safe, effective exercise programs.
Which employers are most likely to sponsor group exercise instructors?
Corporate wellness programs, luxury resorts, cruise lines, and large fitness chains with specialized programs offer the best sponsorship opportunities. These employers have immigration experience and budget for H-1B visa costs, unlike small studios or independent gyms.
Can I get sponsored for part-time group exercise instruction?
H-1B requires full-time employment, so part-time instruction alone won't qualify. However, you might combine teaching with other duties like program coordination, wellness coaching, or fitness assessment to create a full-time specialized role that meets sponsorship requirements.
How to find Group Exercise Instructor jobs with visa sponsorship?
To find Group Exercise Instructor jobs with visa sponsorship, use Migrate Mate, which specializes in connecting international fitness professionals with sponsoring employers. Focus on fitness chains, resort companies, cruise lines, and wellness centers that commonly offer H-1B, O-1 visa, or other work visas. These employers often need certified instructors and are willing to sponsor qualified candidates with relevant fitness certifications.
How do fitness certifications affect my visa sponsorship chances?
Advanced certifications like ACSM Clinical Exercise Physiologist, corrective exercise specialist, or medical fitness certifications strengthen your case significantly. They demonstrate specialized knowledge beyond basic instruction. Basic certifications like ACE or NASM alone typically aren't sufficient for H-1B qualification.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Group Exercise Instructor jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.