Part-Time Kinesiologist and Parkinson’s Exercise Instructor
Location: Parkinson Wellness Projects (PWP), Victoria, BC
Hours: Approximately 12–15 hours per week across two working arrangements, with opportunities for additional hours
Reports to: Executive Director
Anticipated start date: October 5, 2026
Employment and Contractor Structure
This combined opportunity has two separate components:
- Kinesiologist: A part-time employee position conducting assessments, reassessments and related work.
- Exercise Class Instructor: An independent contractor position teaching Parkinson’s-specific exercise classes.
The successful candidate will enter into a part-time employment agreement for the kinesiology position and a separate instructor services agreement for the exercise-instruction work.
Compensation
- Kinesiologist: Starting at $24 per hour. Kinesiology hours will be processed through PWP’s payroll and will be subject to applicable statutory deductions and employment standards.
- Exercise Class Instructor: Starting at $60 per instructional hour. The contractor rate may increase to $75 per instructional hour after six months based on demonstrated skill, professional development and performance.
About Parkinson Wellness Projects
Parkinson Wellness Projects (PWP) is a non-profit wellness centre serving people living with Parkinson’s disease on Vancouver Island. PWP provides evidence-based exercise, counselling, education, support groups and community connection at no cost to participants.
PWP's exercise programs help participants manage symptoms, maintain independence and improve their quality of life in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Position Summary
PWP is seeking a qualified kinesiologist who is also an energetic and engaging group exercise instructor.
As a part-time PWP employee, the successful candidate will conduct participant assessments and reassessments, maintain professional documentation and help participants determine the most appropriate starting point for PWP’s exercise programs.
Under a separate independent contractor agreement, the successful candidate will potentially teach four classes each week:
- Three Rock Steady Boxing classes
- One PWP Fit class
There may be opportunities to teach additional classes or provide substitute coverage.
Previous Rock Steady Boxing coach certification is not required. PWP will pay for the successful candidate to complete the certification. The successful candidate will be required to enter into a separate training agreement that includes a commitment to provide exercise instruction at PWP for an agreed-upon period following certification.
The successful candidate will combine sound professional judgment with safe, creative and engaging group instruction for people living with Parkinson’s disease.
Key Responsibilities
Kinesiologist—Employee Responsibilities
- Conduct one-on-one assessments and reassessments for people diagnosed with, or in the process of being diagnosed with, Parkinson’s disease or atypical Parkinsonism, including multiple system atrophy and progressive supranuclear palsy.
- Review participants’ health histories, symptoms, mobility, exercise experience, goals and relevant precautions.
- Administer PWP’s established assessment measures, including functional movement and mobility measures.
- Recommend the most appropriate PWP class level and programming options for each participant.
- Recognize findings or concerns that require referral to a physician, physiotherapist or another regulated healthcare professional.
- Maintain accurate, timely and confidential assessment records and professional chart notes.
- Communicate relevant participant information or concerns to the Executive Director and appropriate PWP staff.
- Support the collection and reporting of program outcomes while protecting participant confidentiality.
- Contribute to occasional participant education, presentations or special programs as mutually agreed.
Exercise Class Instructor—Independent Contractor Responsibilities
- Plan and lead three Rock Steady Boxing classes and one PWP Fit class each week.
- Complete Rock Steady Boxing coach certification, funded by PWP.
- Deliver Rock Steady Boxing classes in accordance with the program’s principles and PWP’s safety and program standards.
- Plan varied and engaging PWP Fit classes that address strength, cardiovascular fitness, balance, coordination, functional movement, cognition and flexibility.
- Modify exercises to accommodate participants with different abilities, symptoms and stages of Parkinson’s disease.
- Monitor participants throughout each class and respond appropriately to fatigue, balance concerns, freezing, cognitive changes or other changes in function.
- Use the full exercise space and a variety of available equipment effectively and creatively.
- Create an encouraging environment that challenges participants while maintaining safety.
- Provide direction and supervision to class volunteers.
- Complete appropriate class preparation, equipment setup and wrap-up.
- Provide substitute coverage or teach additional classes when mutually agreed upon.
Professional and Team Responsibilities
- Maintain appropriate professional boundaries and protect participant privacy and confidentiality.
- Remain current with research and best practices related to Parkinson’s disease and exercise.
- Participate in relevant training and occasional instructor or program-development meetings.
- Communicate openly and professionally with participants, volunteers, staff and other instructors.
- Follow PWP’s safety procedures, emergency protocols and professional standards.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in kinesiology or a related field.
- Experience planning and leading group exercise classes.
- Willingness and ability to complete Rock Steady Boxing coach certification.
- Strong understanding of exercise modification and safe exercise for older adults.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- Successful completion of a criminal record check for work with vulnerable adults.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working with people living with Parkinson’s disease or another neurological condition.
- Parkinson’s-specific training.
The successful candidate will be:
- Warm, respectful and encouraging.
- Energetic and engaging when leading groups.
- Confident working with people with a wide range of physical and cognitive abilities.
- Safety-conscious while still appropriately challenging participants.
- Creative in class planning and use of space and equipment.
- Organized and reliable in completing documentation.
- Open to feedback and committed to continued skill development.
- Committed to evidence-informed practice, professional boundaries and person-centred care.
How to Apply
Please send a resume and brief cover letter describing your kinesiology experience, group exercise experience and interest in working with the Parkinson’s community to [email protected].
Pay: $24.00-$75.00 per hour
Expected hours: 13.0 – 20.0 per week
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Flexible schedule
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
