Job Description

Our Mission

YMCA Buffalo Niagara is a charitable, community-based organization committed to providing programs designed to build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.

Full-Time Compensation & Benefits Highlights

The following comprehensive benefits package is offered to full-time employees and is designed to support your health, financial security, and career growth:

• Free health insurance
• Employer-paid group term life insurance (1x annual salary)
• Employer-paid long-term disability coverage
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through Child & Family Services
• A variety of voluntary benefit options

Employees are immediately eligible to enroll and contribute to the Y Retirement Fund 403(b) plan, with a generous 12% employer-paid contribution after eligibility requirements are met.

Our comprehensive paid time off program includes personal time off, holidays, and sick leave.

Staff receive a complimentary YMCA Buffalo Niagara membership and program discounts.

Additional benefits include ongoing training, an extensive leadership development program, and opportunities for career advancement.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Wellness Director is responsible for overseeing the successful operation of the YMCA wellness center and group exercise programs. This role includes program development, staff management, and fostering relationships that promote health and wellness within the YMCA and the community. The Wellness Director is expected to spend substantial time working directly with members and participants, leading programs, providing fitness and wellness instruction, conducting orientations and assessments, coaching staff, and building relationships with the people the YMCA serves. The Wellness Director should be regularly present on the wellness floor and actively engaged in the member experience.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Program Development and Management

• Oversee the daily operations of the wellness center and group exercise programs, ensuring high-quality member experiences and meeting/exceeding program enrollment targets.
• Maintain a consistent schedule of direct service to members and participants, devoted to direct program delivery, member engagement, instruction, coaching, and wellness services.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive wellness program menu and operating schedule designed to attract and retain members.
• Plan and manage health fairs and coordinate monthly wellness seminars to engage members and the community.

Staff Leadership and Development

• Recruit, hire, train, schedule and supervise employees and volunteers, ensuring high-quality service to our members and a motivated and high-performing team.
• Conduct regular performance evaluations, maintain accurate records of staff certifications, and provide leadership development and training opportunities.

Budget and Resource Management

• Develop, manage, and monitor budgets related to wellness programs, ensuring fiscal accountability and alignment with YMCA objectives.
• Maintain clean, well-organized program areas and ensure adequate supplies and equipment to meet member needs.

Community Engagement and Promotion

• Develop and nurtures relationships with community organizations and agencies to support program growth and outreach.
• Represent and promote the YMCA at community events, meetings, and conferences related to wellness and health initiatives.

Program Evaluation and Feedback

• Monitor and evaluate program quality and effectiveness, incorporating member feedback to improve offerings and overall satisfaction.

Safety and Compliance

• Ensure compliance with YMCA policies, state and local health regulations, and safety standards.
• Oversee equipment maintenance and wellness floor layout to ensure a safe and functional environment.
• Monitor daily operations, enforce cleaning and disinfecting protocols, and ensure compliance with PPE requirements.
• Actively ensure the safety and well-being of all children by adhering to YMCA Buffalo Niagara’s Youth Protection Policies. Recognize, respond to, and immediately report any suspected abuse, policy violations, or safety concerns.

Marketing and Communication

• Implement marketing plans and coordinate the distribution of wellness program information to maximize visibility and participation.

Additional Responsibilities

• Serve as a member of the YMCA management team, supporting overall organizational goals and objectives.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or an equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• Minimum of two years of supervisory experience in wellness programming or related areas.

Certifications:

• AFAA, ACE, ACSM, or NSCA certification required.
• CPR/AED certification from the American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or American Safety & Health Institute (ASHI).

Skills and Knowledge:

• Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and manage diverse teams.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, both written and verbal.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in budget management and program evaluation.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

This position requires working in a fitness center within a full-facility YMCA. Evening, weekend, and holiday availability may be required to support programming and respond to emergencies.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

• Perform all physical aspects of the position, including bending, stooping, kneeling, twisting, sitting, reaching with hands, grasping, standing, walking, running, lifting up to 50 pounds, pushing, pulling, and having visual acuity.
• Remain alert at all times to ensure participant safety.
• Respond quickly and effectively to emergency situations.
• Regularly travel to program sites.

YMCA Buffalo Niagara is an Equal Opportunity Employer.