Aqua Instructor

Jewish Community Center Of Staten Island•New York, NY

18d•$30 - $35

About The Position

The JCC of Staten Island is seeking an energetic, dependable, safety-conscious Aqua Instructor to plan, organize, and lead aquatic exercise classes for participants of varying ages, fitness levels, and abilities. The instructor creates a supportive and welcoming environment, motivates participants, demonstrates proper techniques, and provides appropriate exercise modifications while prioritizing safety. The role includes preparing and leading water aerobics, aqua fitness, low-impact aquatic exercise, and other approved water-based classes. The instructor plans structured and progressive workouts, monitors participants, prepares and checks equipment, and adapts instruction to participant needs, pool conditions, class attendance, and program requirements. The instructor also supports program development, communicates with participants and colleagues, follows facility policies and emergency procedures, and maintains required certifications and professional standards.

Requirements

Demonstrated knowledge of aquatic exercise or willingness to complete required training.
Strong communication, presentation, and group-instruction skills.
Ability to lead exercise classes confidently and provide clear demonstrations.
Commitment to participant safety and responsible exercise instruction.
Ability to motivate and work effectively with individuals of varying fitness levels.
Dependability, punctuality, organization, and professionalism.
Ability to follow facility policies and emergency procedures.
Ability to meet the essential requirements of the position, with reasonable accommodations where applicable.
Any required minimum age, employment screening, and onboarding requirements.
Previous experience teaching water aerobics, aqua fitness, aquatic conditioning, or group exercise.
Experience in a fitness center, aquatic facility, recreation center, wellness program, or similar environment.

Nice To Haves

Current recognized aquatic fitness instructor certification.
Current CPR/AED and First Aid certifications.
Knowledge of aquatic exercise programming, water resistance, buoyancy, and low-impact training.
Experience adapting workouts for older adults, beginners, and participants with different fitness abilities.

Responsibilities

Plan, prepare, and lead aquatic fitness classes suited to participant abilities and program objectives.
Lead warm-ups, cardiovascular exercise, strength conditioning, flexibility work, and cool-downs; demonstrate movements and give clear instructions.
Use appropriate aquatic exercise equipment and modify sequences, repetitions, speed, range of motion, and intensity as needed.
Maintain an organized, engaging class structure consistent with program goals.
Monitor participant safety and watch for fatigue, discomfort, distress, or difficulty exercising.
Provide safety instructions, follow facility and emergency procedures, identify hazards, and respond to emergencies within the scope of training.
Work cooperatively with lifeguards and aquatic personnel; maintain awareness that instructor duties do not replace required lifeguard coverage.
Develop and adapt class plans, provide exercise alternatives, introduce equipment safely, evaluate class effectiveness, and support new programs as assigned.
Create a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere and motivate participants with demonstrations, cues, encouragement, and constructive feedback.
Observe participant movement and provide appropriate corrections, intensity options, and modifications; encourage safe technique and rest when needed.
Refer medical, rehabilitation, or individualized treatment questions to qualified healthcare professionals and provide only general fitness guidance within training and certification scope.
Prepare the pool area, music system, and equipment before class; check equipment, organize it, explain its use, return it after class, and report damage or hazards.
Welcome participants, explain class formats and guidelines, answer questions courteously, communicate updates according to facility procedures, and protect confidential information.
Arrive on time, maintain certifications, complete training, attend meetings and briefings as requested, collaborate with staff, follow workplace policies, and report absences or scheduling conflicts.
Accept feedback, pursue professional development, and represent the facility through reliability, enthusiasm, accountability, and customer service.