Fitness Program Specialist – Remote Certified Wellness Trainer for NSA Fort Meade Installation Fitness Center

About the Organization & Mission

Join a nation‑protecting institution where health, safety, and peak performance are paramount. The National Security Agency (NSA) — one of the United States’ most critical intelligence agencies — operates a world‑class Civilian Welfare Fund (CWF) Fitness Center at Fort Meade, Maryland. Our mission is to ensure that every employee, civilian, military spouse, and guest has access to safe, inclusive, and scientifically‑backed fitness programming that supports the rigorous mental and physical demands of national security work. As a Remote Fitness Program Specialist, you will be the driving force behind a vibrant, health‑focused community, delivering high‑impact classes, guiding equipment strategy, and championing wellness across a diverse population.

Why This Role Matters

In an environment where mental acuity and physical resilience are essential, our fitness center serves as a strategic advantage. By designing and implementing programs that address a wide range of fitness levels, health risks, and personal goals, you contribute directly to mission readiness, employee morale, and long‑term health outcomes. Your expertise will help shape a culture where staying active is celebrated, respected, and integrated into daily life.

Key Responsibilities

• Program Design & Delivery: Create, schedule, and lead a variety of fitness classes—including circuit weight training, cardio conditioning, functional movement, and specialty workshops—tailored to the needs of NSA personnel, military spouses, and other eligible participants.
• Safety & Compliance: Conduct daily walkthroughs of the fitness rooms to ensure all equipment is correctly positioned, properly maintained, and used in accordance with OSHA and NSA safety standards.
• Equipment Planning & Procurement: Assess current equipment inventory, identify gaps, and provide data‑driven recommendations for new purchases that align with emerging fitness trends and user demand.
• Customer Service Excellence: Serve as the primary point of contact for program participants, responding promptly to inquiries, collecting feedback, and continuously improving the class experience.
• Documentation & Reporting: Maintain accurate attendance records, injury reports, and program metrics; prepare monthly performance summaries for senior leadership.
• Collaboration with Installation Fitness Program Manager: Partner closely to align program goals with broader wellness initiatives, including health screenings, nutrition counseling, and community outreach.
• Professional Development: Complete required training modules—Customer Service, MWR Orientation, Equipment Safety & Maintenance—within six months and pursue ongoing certifications to stay current with industry best practices.
• Physical Presence (Remote Flexibility): While the position is primarily remote, you will be expected to be on‑site at Fort Meade on a scheduled basis (e.g., quarterly inspections, special events, and training sessions).

Essential Qualifications & Certifications

• Experience: Minimum of two years of direct experience designing and delivering fitness programs for a heterogeneous adult population (corporate, government, or military settings preferred).
• Education: Either a relevant undergraduate or graduate degree (Physical Education, Kinesiology, Exercise Science, or related field) or demonstrable equivalent professional experience.
• Mandatory Certifications (must be current):
  • CPR, First Aid, and AED certification (American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or equivalent).
  • Nationally recognized Basic Fitness Trainer certification (e.g., NASM, ACSM, ACE).
• Security Requirements: Ability to obtain and maintain access to NSA facilities; subject to polygraph, background, and random drug testing per NSA/CSS policy.
• Physical Capability: Ability to lift and carry up to 40 lb and demonstrate proper technique during class instruction.

Preferred (Highly Desirable) Qualifications

• Specialized instructor certifications such as Group Exercise, Individualized Fitness Assessment, or Exercise Benefits Education.
• Experience with fitness technology platforms (e.g., wellness apps, heart‑rate monitoring, virtual class delivery tools).
• Prior work within a federal or military wellness program, understanding of the unique health considerations of service members and their families.
• Professional certifications in nutrition, injury prevention, or corrective exercise.

Core Skills & Competencies

• Instructional Excellence: Ability to engage participants of all fitness levels, demonstrate exercises clearly, and modify movements for safety.
• Analytical Thinking: Use data to assess program effectiveness, identify trends, and make evidence‑based recommendations.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written skills for presenting information, drafting reports, and fostering positive relationships with stakeholders.
• Organizational Agility: Manage multiple class schedules, coordinate equipment logistics, and meet deadlines without compromising safety.
• Customer‑Centric Mindset: Proactive problem‑solving, empathy, and a commitment to delivering an outstanding wellness experience.
• Technology Savvy: Comfortable using fitness management software, virtual meeting platforms, and basic Microsoft Office suite.

Career Growth & Learning Opportunities

At the NSA, your professional development is as important as your contribution to national security. As a Fitness Program Specialist, you will have access to:

• Advanced Certifications: Tuition assistance for certifications such as Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) or Certified Health Coach.
• Leadership Pathways: Potential to advance into supervisory roles (e.g., Assistant Fitness Center Manager, Installation Wellness Coordinator) as openings arise.
• Cross‑Functional Exposure: Collaboration with medical, nutrition, and mental health teams expands your holistic wellness expertise.
• Mentorship Programs: Pairing with seasoned federal wellness professionals to accelerate skill acquisition and network growth.
• Conference Participation: Funding to attend national fitness and occupational health conferences, keeping you at the cutting edge of industry trends.

Work Environment & Culture

Our remote‑first model offers flexibility while maintaining a strong sense of community:

• Hybrid Presence: Primarily work from home with scheduled on‑site days for equipment checks, class leadership, and team meetings.
• Inclusive Culture: We celebrate diversity—gender, age, ability, ethnicity, and military background—ensuring every participant feels welcome.
• Wellness‑Driven Values: Physical fitness, mental resiliency, and work‑life balance are embedded in our daily operations.
• Collaborative Atmosphere: Regular virtual huddles, peer‑learning sessions, and recognition programs foster teamwork and shared success.
• State‑of‑the‑Art Facilities: Access to cutting‑edge cardio, strength, and functional training equipment, plus a supportive staff of health professionals.

Compensation, Perks & Benefits

While exact figures may vary, the position offers a competitive salary range of $40,000–$45,000 per year, aligned with federal pay scale NF‑3. Additional benefits include:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Federal retirement plan (Thrift Savings Plan) with agency matching contributions.
• Paid time off, Federal holidays, and generous leave accruals.
• Flexible work schedule with remote work allowance.
• Professional development funding for certifications and conferences.
• Access to on‑site fitness facilities, wellness programs, and employee assistance services.
• Transportation stipend for occasional on‑site travel as required.

Application Process & Important Dates

This recruitment window opens on September 29, 2023 and closes on October 5, 2023. To ensure full consideration, please submit the following:

• Resume (including full contact information for professional and personal references).
• Copies of CPR, First Aid, AED, and Basic Fitness Trainer certifications (uploaded with your application).
• Transcripts or proof of relevant degree, if applicable.
• Completed questionnaire answering all job‑related questions.

All applications are valid for 90 days after submission. Candidates may be referred continuously as vacancies arise.

Ready to Make an Impact?

If you are a motivated fitness professional who thrives in a mission‑oriented environment, we invite you to join our team and help shape the health and readiness of the nation’s most critical workforce. Apply now and become a cornerstone of the NSA’s wellness community.

Take the Next Step

Click the link below to submit your application, and let’s build a healthier, stronger future together.