Job Description

Position Title: AquaFit / Water Aerobics Instructor

Department: Ancillary Services, Alumni Aquatic Centre

Position Type: Casual, Part Time

Hourly Rate: $30 plus vacation pay

Posting Date: September 23, 2026

Closing Date: posting will remain open until filled

Job Summary

The Alumni Aquatic Centre at St. Francis Xavier University is seeking an enthusiastic and dependable AquaFit/Water Aerobics Instructor. The successful candidate will plan and lead safe, welcoming and effective group fitness classes in the pool for participants with a variety of fitness levels and abilities. Lifeguard certification is not required. Classes may be scheduled during daytime, evening hours, dependent on programming needs.

Responsibilities

• Plan and lead engaging AquaFit and water aerobics classes.
• Provide clear verbal instructions and demonstrate exercises from the pool deck or in the water.
• Offer exercise modifications for different fitness levels, abilities and mobility needs.
• Create balanced classes that may include cardiovascular exercise, muscular conditioning, balance, mobility and flexibility.
• Select appropriate music and equipment for each class.
• Monitor participants and encourage safe exercise technique.
• Create a positive, inclusive and welcoming class environment.
• Arrive early to prepare equipment and the instructional area.
• Inspect equipment before use and report safety or maintenance concerns.
• Follow Alumni Aquatic Centre and StFX policies, procedures and emergency protocols.
• Communicate participant concerns, incidents and program needs to the Aquatics Coordinator.
• Maintain professional conduct and positive relationships with participants, lifeguards and other staff.
• Participate in required staff orientation or training.

Required Qualifications

Candidates must hold at least one of the following:

• A recognized Group Fitness Instructor certification; or
• A recognized AquaFit, aquatic fitness or water aerobics instructor certification.

Candidates must also demonstrate:

• Knowledge of safe group exercise principles.
• The ability to lead and motivate groups with confidence.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• The ability to provide safe exercise options and modifications.
• Dependability, professionalism and punctuality.
• Comfort working in an aquatic environment.
• The ability to work independently and as part of the aquatic team.

Additional Information

• Lifeguard certification is not required for this position.
• Previous experience teaching AquaFit, water aerobics or group fitness is considered an asset.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification are considered assets.
• Training may be provided on facility procedures, emergency protocols and available aquatic fitness equipment.
• Instructors may teach from the pool deck, in the water or through a combination of both approaches.

Work Setting

The Alumni Aquatic Centre serves StFX students, employees and members of the Antigonish community. Classes may include adults, older adults, beginners and experienced participants with a range of fitness and mobility levels.

Personal Suitability

The ideal candidate is:

• Energetic and encouraging
• Inclusive and respectful
• Safety-conscious
• Organized and prepared
• Patient and approachable
• Comfortable adapting instruction to participant needs
• Able to create a positive community atmosphere

How to Apply

Please submit:

• A résumé outlining relevant education and experience.
• Copies of current Group Fitness, AquaFit, aquatic fitness or water aerobics certifications.
• Contact information for professional references.

Applications may be submitted to the Aquatics Coordinator at ablancha@stfx.ca

StFX is located in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq People.

Our institution is committed to upholding the values of equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been historically disadvantaged and marginalized, including Indigenous persons (especially Mi’kmaq), racialized persons (especially African Nova Scotians), persons with disabilities, those who identify as women and/or 2SLGBTQIA+ and any others who would contribute to the diversity of our community. Please note that all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, applications from Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

We are also committed to the elimination of barriers to participation for persons with disabilities. Should you require an accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact People and Culture at hr@stfx.ca or 902-867-5038.

About St. Francis Xavier University

Established in 1853, St. Francis Xavier University (StFX) is consistently recognized as one of the best universities in Canada. StFX exceeds the needs of today’s undergraduates by providing the very best academic experience - outstanding teaching, exceptional hands-on research opportunities, and global exchanges -- all within Canada’s most vibrant and inspiring residential campus. Here, the focus is on the academic and personal development of every student, making community and social engagement a large part of the learning experience. Our students are academically strong and highly engaged in every aspect of life, determined to make a positive impact on the world.

In 2026, Maclean's annual university rankings put StFX #1 for reputation across Canada in the primarily undergraduate category. For more, visit www.stfx.ca.

About Antigonish, Nova Scotia

The beautiful and historic town of Antigonish is located within the northeastern corner of Nova Scotia. Only a 15-minute drive from the ocean and a two-hour drive to major urban centres, Antigonish is a family-friendly community with a diverse and growing population and provides access to excellent education at all levels. The town is surrounded by rolling countryside and beautiful beaches and is a hotspot for outdoor recreation, sports and other active lifestyle activities. Antigonish supports a vibrant culture in the arts with music, performing arts, visual arts and crafts, and fabulous festivals happening throughout the year. For more information, visit www.townofantigonish.ca or www.visitantigonish.ca.