Strength Coach / Personal Trainer
LEAP | Lakeview East, Chicago | Part-time to Full-time | $30–$35/hr
We're looking for a coach who's done this for a while, knows they're good at it, and is ready to stop bouncing between gyms. If you want a place to settle in, grow a roster of clients who actually stick, and build toward a full-time role on a team that backs you—keep reading.
This isn't a fill-in shift. We're hiring with the long game in mind, and we want someone who is too.
About LEAP
LEAP is a coaching-driven training facility built on strong relationships, smart programming, and long-term results. We value professionalism, consistency, and coaches who genuinely care about helping people move better and get stronger—without ego or chaos.
We're small by design, and we protect that. Coaches here aren't running classes on autopilot—they're building real relationships with members who train with us for years.
Why Experienced Coaches Stay at LEAP
- A real growth path, not a vague promise. You'll start part-time, and as your client base fills in, you grow into full-time—most coaches get there within 3–6 months. We'll tell you exactly what that path looks like, and we're invested in walking it with you.
- Coaching actually comes first. You'll have the time and space to coach, cue, and connect—not chase headcount or babysit a packed room.
- A small group model that respects your craft. No overcrowded classes, no micromanaging, no chaos. Just good coaching in a setting built for it.
- Leadership that has your back. Collaborative coaches and a team that supports you, communicates clearly, and treats you like a professional.
- Coaches who keep getting better. We value continuing education and want coaches who are always sharpening their craft.
- Members who make the work worth it. Committed adults who show up, work hard, and respect coaching.
- A clean, well-equipped facility designed for effective strength and conditioning.
The Role
This position blends our signature small group sessions—Team Strength and Peak Performance—with one-on-one personal training. You'll start part-time and grow your hours as your client base builds, with a clear path to a full-time role for the right coach—typically within 3–6 months.
You'll build your roster three ways: new members coming through the door, existing LEAP members looking for a coach, and clients you generate yourself. We bring people in; the coaches who grow fastest are the ones who pair that with their own initiative.
What you'll do:
- Coach Team Strength and Peak Performance small group sessions
- Deliver high-quality personal training sessions
- Provide clear cues, regressions, and progressions
- Build lasting relationships with members and clients
- Maintain a safe, clean, and professional training environment
- Communicate effectively with the coaching and leadership team
Who We're Looking For
You've got real coaching experience and you're ready to put down roots. You're likely a great fit if you:
- Coach people, not just run workouts
- Lead groups confidently and give hands-on feedback that lands
- Value professionalism, punctuality, and preparation
- Want to grow as a coach and build a career—not just stack one-off sessions
- Are comfortable and confident coaching strength-based movements
- Care about long-term client success and retention—and want to be somewhere long enough to see it pay off
Requirements (Minimum)
- One nationally accredited certification (NASM, ACE, NSCA, ACSM, etc.) or an exercise-related degree
- At least 1 year of coaching or personal training experience (2+ preferred)
- Strong communication and people skills
- CPR/AED certified (or willing to obtain)
- Availability for early mornings, evenings, and Saturdays
Preferred (Not Required)
- Experience with small group or semi-private training
- Barbell and strength training experience
Compensation & Benefits
- $30–$35 per hour, based on experience
- A clear path to increase hours and transition into a full-time role
- Flexible schedule
- Gym membership
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Opportunities for advancement
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time Expected hours: 15–40 per week Work Location: In person — Lakeview East, Chicago
How to Apply
Take a look at who we are at leapchicago.com before you apply—we want coaches who know what they're walking into and want to be part of it.
Apply through Indeed with your resume. A short cover letter telling us why you want to coach at LEAP—and what you're looking to build here—is strongly encouraged. We read them, and they matter.
LEAP is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Pay: $30.00 - $35.00 per hour
Expected hours: 15 – 40 per week
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
- Gym membership
- Health insurance
- Opportunities for advancement
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
Experience:
- Personal training: 1 year (Required)
License/Certification:
- Personal training certification or exercise related degree (Required)
Shift availability:
- Day Shift (Required)
- Night Shift (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- Chicago, IL 60657 (Required)
Work Location: In person
