Lead Martial Arts/Fitness Instructor

Job Description

Job Description

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Opportunity for advancement
• Training & development

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 BKs 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 studios 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 dojos 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 studios mission of growth, empowerment, purpose, and community