About the Role
We're looking for a Jiu Jitsu Instructor to lead classes for patients/clients as part of our Intensive Outpatient Program for PTSD. This is a unique opportunity to use your skills on the mat to support real healing — helping individuals build confidence, regulate their nervous systems, and reconnect with a sense of safety and control in their bodies.
You'll lead a group class once a week, supported by our Morning Activities Coordinator and one of our clinical providers, who will be present to help ensure a therapeutic, trauma-informed environment throughout the session.
What You'll Do
- Lead a weekly Jiu Jitsu class (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM) for a group of clients in our PTSD IOP
- Create a fun, engaging, and physically safe training environment tailored to participants' varying skill levels and comfort with physical contact
- Partner with the Morning Activities Coordinator and clinical staff to adapt activities as needed for the group's therapeutic goals
- Foster a sense of accomplishment, community, and confidence that encourages clients to continue training beyond the program
- Maintain appropriate boundaries and communication with clinical staff regarding participant needs or concerns during class
- Tailor classes using a structured pedagogical approach, integrating technical instruction, conceptual understanding, and diverse training methodologies to enhance participants’ skill development
What We're Looking For
- Purple belt rank or higher in Jiu Jitsu
- Experience teaching Jiu Jitsu, with the ability to adapt instruction for beginners and mixed-ability groups
- Ability to design and lead proper warm-ups aimed at injury prevention and physical readiness
- Ability to teach both sport-based and self-defense-oriented Jiu Jitsu effectively
- Familiarity with or willingness to learn about PTSD and trauma-informed practices, especially within the First Responder community
- A genuine understanding of, or connection to, First Responders (law enforcement, fire, EMS, military, etc.) and the unique challenges they face
- Great energy and a natural ability to make training feel welcoming, motivating, and safe
- Strong communication skills and comfort working collaboratively with clinical and support staff
- Patience, empathy, and a passion for using martial arts as a tool for healing and personal growth
Why This Role Matters
For many of our clients, this class is more than exercise — it's a chance to rebuild trust in their bodies, reduce hypervigilance, and experience a sense of achievement in a supportive group setting. Instructors who thrive in this role often find it one of the most rewarding parts of their week, watching clients grow in confidence and, in many cases, continue their Jiu Jitsu journey long after they've completed the program.
This is a per diem position.
Pay: $45.00 - $55.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
