Adaptive Swim Instructor

Jewish Community Center Of Staten Island•New York, NY

63d•$30 - $50

About The Position

We are looking for a compassionate and experienced Adaptive Swim Instructor to join our Aquatics team. In this role, you’ll work closely with children and adults with varying physical, cognitive, and sensory needs, providing adaptive swim instruction in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment. You will collaborate with our aquatics staff and may also provide guidance to junior instructors or volunteers assisting with lessons. ABOUT YOU You are patient, empathetic, and passionate about making swimming accessible to everyone. You will tailor swim lessons to meet the individual needs of each participant, helping them gain confidence, improve water safety, and achieve personal milestones. You work well both independently and collaboratively, and you’re comfortable communicating with caregivers and other team members to ensure consistent and effective support. ABOUT US The Jewish Community Center of Staten Island was founded in 1929 with the goal of creating a home for the Jewish community by offering social, recreational, and educational activities. Over time, that mission expanded to help anyone who walked through the doors of any of our facilities. The JCC has become a true community center—not just for the Jewish community, but for the entirety of Staten Island. Programs serve the needs we see in our community and are constantly expanding to meet new demand. We serve people of all walks of life, from young children to seniors and everyone in between. The JCC is proud to offer services that help improve the quality of life for people on Staten Island and beyond. We strive to help those in need as well as provide recreational and educational opportunities for our members. The JCC of Staten Island is dedicated to encouraging harmony throughout the community by providing facilities and programs that are open to all regardless of race, religion, creed, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or political affiliation. Everyone is welcome at the JCC.

Requirements

Minimum of 2 years of experience teaching swim lessons, including at least 1 year of experience in adaptive swimming with individuals with special needs
Comfortable working with individuals with physical, developmental, or cognitive disabilities
Strong communication skills and a calm, supportive presence
Current CPR/AED and Lifeguard certifications (or ability to obtain before start date)

Nice To Haves

WSI (Water Safety Instructor) or equivalent adaptive swim instruction certification
Background in special education, occupational therapy, recreational therapy, or related fields
Experience collaborating with caregivers, therapists, or education professionals

Responsibilities

Plan and lead adaptive swimming lessons
Adapt teaching methods to suit different abilities and learning styles
Ensure participant safety at all times and maintain awareness of emergency procedures
Communicate with parents or caregivers regarding student progress and lesson goals
Collaborate with aquatics staff and other team members to support program delivery
Provide feedback and mentorship to assistant instructors or volunteers
Maintain a clean, organized, and inclusive swim environment