Art Instructor

YMCA of Metropolitan Denver • Commerce City, CO

2d • $19 - $20 • Onsite

About The Position

Turn Creativity Into Connection Do you love making art—and helping others discover what they can create? We’re looking for an enthusiastic Art Instructor who can bring creativity, encouragement, and a little bit of joyful messiness to the YMCA! Whether participants are picking up a paintbrush for the first time, experimenting with a new technique, or proudly showing off their latest masterpiece, you’ll help create experiences where people can explore, learn, build confidence, and belong. As part of our YMCA Experience team, you’ll plan and lead fun, engaging art programs for children, youth, and/or adults. You don’t just teach art—you create a welcoming space where participants can express themselves, try something new, connect with others, and have fun along the way. What you’ll bring to the canvas: creativity, patience, positive energy, great people skills, and a genuine desire to help others grow. Position Summary The Art Instructor, working as part of the YMCA Experience team, is responsible for planning and leading engaging, high-quality art programs for children, youth, and/or adults. The Art Instructor creates a welcoming and inclusive environment where participants can explore their creativity, develop artistic skills, build confidence, and connect with others. This position provides excellent customer service and builds positive relationships with participants and families while delivering organized, age-appropriate art instruction. The Art Instructor demonstrates the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility in all aspects of their work.

Requirements

• Minimum age 18.
• Knowledge of or experience with art techniques, materials, and creative instruction appropriate to the programs being offered.
• Ability to communicate effectively and build positive relationships with participants, families, and coworkers.
• Ability to organize activities, manage groups, and create an engaging learning environment.
• Ability to work independently while contributing positively as part of a team.
• Demonstrated commitment to creating an environment where people of different backgrounds, identities, abilities, and experiences feel welcomed and valued.
• Ability and willingness to complete YMCA-required training and certifications within established timelines.
• Must meet applicable YMCA, licensing, background screening, and age requirements for the position.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with children, youth, adults, or groups is preferred.
• Experience teaching or facilitating art activities is preferred; equivalent education, training, volunteer experience, or demonstrated artistic experience may also be considered.

Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare, and lead engaging art classes, workshops, and activities appropriate for the ages, abilities, interests, and experience levels of participants.
• Teach foundational art concepts, techniques, and safe use of materials while encouraging creativity, exploration, and individual expression.
• Create an inclusive, welcoming, and supportive learning environment where participants feel valued and encouraged to participate.
• Adapt activities and instruction, when reasonably possible, to support different learning styles, abilities, and participant needs.
• Prepare the program space and materials before each class and ensure appropriate cleanup and storage following activities.
• Maintain appropriate supervision of participants and follow YMCA procedures related to safety, emergency response, participant conduct, and child protection.
• Monitor art supplies and equipment and communicate purchasing, replacement, or maintenance needs to the appropriate supervisor.
• Build positive relationships with participants, parents, caregivers, members, volunteers, and coworkers.
• Communicate program information and participant needs professionally and respectfully while maintaining appropriate confidentiality.
• Respond to participant questions, concerns, and feedback with excellent customer service and involve a supervisor when appropriate.
• Maintain accurate attendance, incident, program, or other required records.
• Participate in required staff meetings, training, and professional development.
• Support YMCA programs, events, and initiatives as appropriate.
• Follow YMCA policies, procedures, safety standards, and applicable licensing or regulatory requirements.
• Perform other duties related to the position as assigned.

Benefits

• Free individual membership
• Program discounts
• Generous Retirement Contribution Options -Includes company contribution of 10% once eligibility is met
• Employee Assistance Program
• Accrue 1 hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked
• Paid Time off for those scheduled and working 20+ per week

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed