Lead Activity Based Trainer

Help Build Something That Will Change Lives 

NextStep Pittsburgh is an activity-based training (ABT) center dedicated to improving the health, functional recovery and independence of people living with paralysis. There are currently 40 similar centers across the country, but none that provide ABT within the Pittsburgh region. This is an exciting opportunity to be a part of an innovative, life changing movement. 

In this role, you will work one-on-one with clients to deliver individualized exercise and wellness programs that improve function, strength, endurance, cardiovascular health, balance, and independence. You'll collaborate to provide evidence-based, person centered care in a supportive and innovative environment. 

This is an excellent opportunity for someone with a background in exercise science, kinesiology, rehabilitation, adaptive fitness, or a related field who wants to make a meaningful difference every day. 

Key Responsibilities: 

• Design and implement individualized exercise programs for adults with neurological conditions. 
• Provide one-on-one training using evidence-based practices. 
• Monitor participants' safety, vital signs, and physical responses during exercise sessions. 
• Progress exercise programs based on participant goals, functional abilities, and clinical recommendations. 
• Maintain accurate documentation of participant progress and treatment activities. 
• Collaborate with physicians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and other healthcare professionals. 
• Educate participants and caregivers on exercise techniques, wellness, and healthy lifestyle habits
• Assist with outcome measurements, data collection, and program evaluations. 
• Maintain exercise equipment and ensure a safe training environment.
• Participate in ongoing professional development and quality improvement initiatives. 

Requirements: 

• Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Health Promotion, Rehabilitation Science, or a related field. 
• Experience working with individuals with neurological conditions or physical disabilities preferred but not necessary. 
• Strong understanding of exercise physiology, biomechanics, and adaptive exercise principles. 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. 
• Ability to motivate and encourage individuals. 
• Strong organizational and documentation skills. 
• CPR/AED certification (or ability to obtain upon hire). 
• This position requires the ability to: 
• Demonstrate exercise techniques and assist participants safely. 
• Stand, walk, bend, lift, and move throughout the workday. 
• Assist with transfers and positioning when appropriate. 
• Lift and move exercise equipment within established safety guidelines. 
• Maintain CPR and emergency response readiness. 

The Ideal Candidate 

• We're looking for someone who is: 
• Compassionate and empathetic 
• Patient and encouraging 
• Adaptable to individual participant needs 
• Detail-oriented and observant 
• Committed to safety
• Reliable and professional 
• Collaborative with interdisciplinary teams 
• Curious and eager to continue learning 
• Calm and confident when responding to unexpected situations

Why Join Our Team? 

• As one of our first team members, you'll have the opportunity to: 
• Help build and shape the region's first Activity-Based Training center. 
• Grow with an expanding organization and help influence its future. 
• Learn specialized activity-based training and neurorecovery techniques that set you apart professionally. 
• Work with evidence-based practices rooted in the latest neuroscience and rehabilitation research. 
• Develop expertise in a rapidly growing field with opportunities for continued learning. 
• Make a meaningful impact by helping people living with paralysis improve their health, function, and independence. 
• Be part of a passionate team that's changing what's possible for paralysis recovery in Western Pennsylvania. 

This position will begin as a part-time role with a guaranteed 20 hours each week starting at $20/hour, depending on experience. As NextStep Pittsburgh continues to grow, this position will grow into a full-time role with additional leadership opportunities. 

Interested? Please complete this form and email your resume to claire@nextstepfitness.org