Karate/Taekwondo Expert

About the Organization: 

The Police Athletic League (or PAL) is New York City’s largest independent youth development organization. We operate diverse programs from Head Start, Day Car and Universal Pre-K programs; to elementary and middle school after-school programs, summer day camps and summer Playstreets. We run evening teen centers and college readiness programs, as well as youth employment and juvenile justice programs. In its over a century of service, PAL is continuing its evolution and remains a vibrant and vital New York City institution.

 

Position Summary: 

The Karate/Taekwondo Expert provides high-quality martial arts instruction to middle and high school–aged adolescents, fostering discipline, confidence, respect, and physical development. This role is designed for a seasoned martial arts professional who can balance technical excellence with youth development, safety, and mentorship. The instructor creates a structured, motivating, and inclusive learning environment that supports both skill progression and positive social-emotional growth. 

Location: Polo Grounds Cornerstone — Police Athletic League, Inc

Pay & Commitment:

• $125 per hour

• 3-hour shifts, 2 days per week 

• 16 weeks beginning in March

Key Responsibilities 

• Deliver structured Karate and/or Taekwondo instruction appropriate for middle and high school–aged youth 

• Design and lead lesson plans that emphasize technique, physical conditioning, discipline, respect, and self-confidence 

• Adapt instruction to varying skill levels, learning styles, and physical abilities 

• Maintain a safe training environment, ensuring proper warm-ups, conditioning, and injury prevention practices 

• Model and reinforce positive behavior, sportsmanship, and mutual respect 

• Establish clear expectations and maintain effective classroom and group management 

• Monitor student progress and provide constructive feedback 

• Collaborate with program staff to align instruction with overall youth development goals 

• Ensure compliance with all organizational policies, safety protocols, and child supervision standards 

• Maintain accurate attendance and basic program documentation as required 

Qualifications 

• Minimum of 5–7 years of progressive experience teaching Karate, Taekwondo, or closely related martial arts 

• Demonstrated experience working with adolescents (ages 11–18) in a structured instructional or coaching setting 

• Black Belt (1st Dan or higher) in Karate, Taekwondo, or a recognized equivalent 

• Certification from a recognized martial arts governing body or federation (e.g., Kukkiwon, ITF, WKF, ISKF, or comparable) preferred 

• Strong knowledge of age-appropriate training techniques and youth development principles 

• Proven ability to manage groups, set boundaries, and maintain a respectful learning environment 

Skills & Competencies 

• Instructional leadership and mentorship 

• Youth engagement and motivation 

• Safety awareness and risk management 

• Clear communication and adaptability 

• Professionalism and reliability 

Work Environment & Physical Requirements:

This position involves providing martial arts instruction in a group setting. Activities can include demonstrating techniques, moving around the training area, and interacting with students. 

 

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: 

At the Police Athletic League, we seek people who are talented, creative and passionate to help create a more inclusive city and better futures for our youth. We’re devoted to empowering communities and building the best places to work, and that goes for our own teams too.

The Police Athletic League is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected characteristic including, but not limited to, an individual’s sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy

Employment with PAL is contingent upon successful completion of all the Agency’s lawful pre-employment checks, which may include a background check.