At a Glance
- Tasks: Support fitness activities and deliver high-quality leisure services in a collaborative environment.
- Company: Join the Ards North Down Borough Council team at Portaferry Leisure Centre.
- Benefits: Enjoy 35 days annual leave, health benefits, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible hours with opportunities for personal growth and training.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact on community health while working in a fun, dynamic setting.
- Qualifications: Level 2 fitness qualification and customer service experience required.
The predicted salary is between 29064 - 31537 € per year.
Job ref: ST 12931 | Job type: Permanent
Location: Portaferry Leisure Centre | Salary: Scale 5, SCP 13 - 18, £29,064 to £31,537 pro rata pa.
Quantity of Posts Available: 2
Closing date: Friday 05 Jun 2026 16:00
Job summary: Committing to the one-team ethos, you will be flexible and collaborative, and you will actively support all colleagues and other activities necessary to deliver the leisure service objectives. You will be expected to undertake a wide range of duties across a range of leisure facilities. As a Fitness Associate, you will implement the Council's Fitness, Rehabilitation, Strategy and Plans, both inside and outside of the Gym environment.
Please note: There are 2 permanent, part-time posts working 23.5 hours per week. Casuals may be recruited for this post. Based in Portaferry Leisure Centre. A reserve list may be maintained from this recruitment. Must be prepared to work on a rota system which can include days, evenings, weekends (Sat & Sun) and public holidays. Must consent to a pre-employment Enhanced Access NI check. Undertake any training required to deliver a high-level service experience and ensure qualifications are kept up to date in line with both personal development and the needs of the service.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
The person specification provides information on the qualifications, experience, knowledge and skills required to carry out the duties of the post. The essential criteria will be used for shortlisting and as part of the selection process.
ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS
- Must have a recognised qualification in Fitness at Level 2 or above i.e. NIIC, GNVQ II, Premier, or equivalent qualification.
- It is essential that applicants hold a qualification enabling the postholder to deliver a class from our class timetable or agree to achieve 2 of the below qualifications within 6 months of start date:
- Indoor Cycle
- Circuits
- Kettlebells
- Core Strength & Conditioning
- Boxercise
- Body Pump (TBF)
- PARS (Physical Activity Readiness Scheme) or agree to obtain as soon as required.
EXPERIENCE
- Previous experience of working in a customer-focused environment.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS
- Must be prepared to work on a rota system which can include days, evenings, weekends (Sat & Sun) and public holidays.
- Must consent to a pre-employment Enhanced with barred list Access NI check.
- Undertake any training required to deliver a high-level service experience and ensure qualifications are kept up to date in line with both personal development and the needs of the service.
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS
- Hold a recognised academic qualification associated with the leisure industry.
- Recognised sports specific coaching qualification.
- One or more coaching qualifications for classes.
- Hold a recognised First Aid qualification.
- Hold a customer care or Welcome Host certificate.
- Hold a recognised qualification in IT e.g., CLAIT II or ECDL.
EXPERIENCE
- Previous relevant experience in the leisure industry.
- Experience in the delivery of fitness classes.
- Previous experience of reception duties within a similar environment.
Benefits
Employees have access to a wide range of benefits at Ards North Down Borough Council. In addition to a competitive salary, the Council supports all staff in their career aspirations through learning and development opportunities. Current key benefits include:
- 35 days of annual leave (including bank/public holidays), rising to 38 days after five years of service, and 41 days after 10 years of service.
- Northern Ireland Local Government Pension Scheme (Council contributes 15.5% of salary).
- Health benefits: Westfield Healthcare Scheme; Leisure Centre Membership; Cycle to Work Scheme.
- Flexitime / Time Off In Lieu (TOIL).
- Education / qualifications support after qualifying period.
- Plus much more.
Fitness Associate employer: Ards and North Down Borough Council
At Ards North Down Borough Council, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment at the Portaferry Leisure Centre. Our commitment to employee growth is reflected in our extensive benefits package, including generous annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and opportunities for professional development, ensuring that our Fitness Associates can thrive both personally and professionally while contributing to the community's health and wellbeing.
Contact Detail:
Ards and North Down Borough Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Fitness Associate
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the gym environment and the team before your interview. Visit the Portaferry Leisure Centre, chat with current staff, and understand their vibe. This will help you connect during your interview and show that you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare to showcase your fitness qualifications and experience. Think of examples where you've delivered great customer service or led fitness classes. We want to see how you can contribute to our one-team ethos!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions related to fitness and customer service. Role-play with a friend or in front of the mirror. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform when it counts!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process. It shows you're tech-savvy and serious about the role. Plus, we love seeing applications come directly from motivated candidates like you!
We think you need these skills to ace Fitness Associate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Fitness:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for fitness and helping others shine through. We want to see how your passion aligns with our mission at the Portaferry Leisure Centre.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight any relevant experience in customer service or the leisure industry. We’re looking for candidates who can connect with our community, so share specific examples of how you've done this in the past.
Qualifications Matter:Don’t forget to mention your fitness qualifications! If you have a Level 2 qualification or higher, make it prominent in your application. If you're working towards additional qualifications, let us know your plans!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ards and North Down Borough Council
✨Know Your Fitness Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your fitness qualifications and any relevant experience. Be ready to discuss how your background aligns with the role, especially in delivering fitness classes or working in a customer-focused environment.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since the job emphasises a one-team ethos, think of examples where you've collaborated with others. Highlight your flexibility and willingness to support colleagues, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare for the Rota
Be ready to discuss your availability and willingness to work on a rota system, including evenings and weekends. This shows that you're committed and understand the demands of the role.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions about the leisure centre's fitness programmes or team dynamics. This not only shows your interest but also gives you a chance to assess if the role is the right fit for you.
