Do you believe fitness should feel welcoming, supportive, and fun?
Are you passionate about helping people begin their wellness journey in a way that feels safe, encouraging, and culturally connected?
If so, Wabano is looking for a dynamic and community-minded Fitness Coordinator/Instructor to join our team. We are seeking someone who can inspire Indigenous community members who may be new to fitness, help build confidence, and create inclusive spaces where everyone feels comfortable participating regardless of fitness level or experience.
As an organization serving the Indigenous community in Ottawa, Wabano is committed to prioritizing opportunities for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis applicants. Candidates are encouraged to self-identify in their application.
The Fitness Coordinator/Instructor will lead and coordinate culturally grounded fitness and healthy living initiatives that encourage participation, connection, and long-term wellness within the Indigenous community.
This role is ideal for someone who is energetic, approachable, and passionate about making fitness accessible and non-intimidating for beginners. The successful candidate will lead group fitness classes, support participants preparing for the Wabano Tamarack Race Weekend through Couch-to-5K workshops, and help grow participation in wellness programming through community outreach and engagement.
The Fitness Coordinator/Instructor will work collaboratively with Wabano’s health promotion team and must be available to work evenings and Saturday mornings.
- Plan and deliver engaging beginner-friendly fitness classes and wellness activities for Indigenous community members;
- Create a welcoming and culturally safe environment that encourages participation and builds confidence in physical activity;
- Lead Couch-to-5K workshops and support participants preparing for the Wabano Tamarack Race Weekend;
- Recruit participants and promote healthy living programming through outreach and community engagement;
- Collaborate with Health Promoters and team members to support wellness initiatives and community events;
- Develop culturally appropriate health promotion messaging and social media content;
- Assist with the coordination, setup, facilitation, and cleanup of fitness and wellness activities;
- Provide health information, resources, and referrals to community members; and
- Ensure programming reflects current health promotion practices and Indigenous cultural values.
- Post-secondary education in Health Promotion, Fitness, Kinesiology, Recreation, or a related field, combined with related experience;
- Required fitness instructor certification (e.g., Group Fitness, Yoga, Zumba, Pilates, Personal Training, etc.);
- Experience leading group fitness classes and working with individuals beginning their fitness journey;
- Knowledge and understanding of Indigenous communities, cultures, and wellness approaches;
- Strong communication, community engagement, and teamwork skills;
- Ability to motivate and create a fun, inclusive, and encouraging environment;
- Strong organizational skills and ability to coordinate multiple activities;
- Valid driver’s license and access to a reliable insured vehicle considered an asset;
- Clear Criminal Reference Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening required; and
- Ability to work 2–3 evenings weekly and Saturday mornings.
We are looking for someone who:
- Brings positive energy and enthusiasm to programming;
- Makes fitness feel accessible and achievable for beginners;
- Connects well with community members;
- Is encouraging, patient, and approachable; and
- Enjoys working collaboratively in a team environment.
$65,000 to $68,000 with benefits
- Collaborative and Supportive Work Environment
- Comprehensive Group Health and Dental Insurance
- Employee Pension Plan (defined benefits) with matching contribution from Wabano
- Employee Assistance Program – the best in the world
- Four (4) weeks paid vacation time
- Ten (10) paid personal/sick days
- Access to cultural teachings and knowledge keepers
- Work with dynamic teams from various sectors
Please submit your application to [email protected]. Application materials include a cover letter and resume. This opportunity will remain open until filled, so tell us your story early!
Wabano is an inclusive and equitable organization, encouraging applications from qualified candidates, including persons with disabilities and members of visible minorities. The position is open to all qualified applicants, although preference will be given to candidates of Indigenous ancestry (please self-identify in your application).
Wabano is committed to providing employment accommodation in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. If contacted for an employment opportunity or interviewing, please advise if you require accommodation.
We thank all those who apply. Only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.
“This posting is for an existing vacancy. All applications are reviewed by our hiring team; Wabano does not use artificial intelligence tools or artificial intelligence-enabled applications to screen or select candidates.”
Don’t think this is the right job for you? Let us try and find you the right fit within Wabano.
