Lead Martial Arts/Fitness Instructor

Job Description

Job Description

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