Swim Instructor I

Crossroads YMCA•Hammond, IN

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Teach. Inspire. Build Confidence in the Water. Join Our Swim Instructor Team! Do you enjoy working with children, teaching new skills, and helping people gain confidence in the water? As a YMCA Swim Instructor, you'll play an important role in creating a safe, supportive, and encouraging environment where swimmers of all ages and abilities can learn and grow. Every class is different. You may be teaching foundational water skills, helping a swimmer master a new technique, encouraging a nervous participant, tracking progress, or celebrating a swimmer's achievements. This role is ideal for someone who is patient, energetic, dependable, and passionate about helping others succeed.

Requirements

Must be at least 15 years of age.
Ability to demonstrate swim instructor skills, including in deep water, according to YMCA standards.
Ability to communicate effectively with children, families, members, and coworkers.
Ability to relate effectively to people from diverse backgrounds and experiences.
Excellent interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Willingness to complete required training, shadowing, and verification expectations.
Ability to demonstrate sufficient strength, agility, and mobility to perform swim instruction responsibilities.
Ability to spend extended periods standing, walking, sitting, and working in the water.
Ability to bend and stoop as needed.
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
Ability to maintain a high level of alertness, concentration, and initiative.
Ability to communicate effectively through visual, auditory, and verbal communication.
Ability to work in environments with extreme humidity, dampness, and heat.
Ability to maintain a neat and professional appearance.

Nice To Haves

Enjoy working with children and people of all ages.
Are patient, encouraging, and dependable.
Enjoy teaching and helping others learn new skills.
Can adapt your teaching style to different learners.
Stay calm and focused in busy or unexpected situations.
Can maintain safety expectations while creating a fun and positive experience.
Are comfortable working in and around the water.
Enjoy being active and working as part of a team.
Are willing to learn, receive feedback, and continuously improve your skills.
Believe every person deserves a safe, welcoming, and supportive place to learn and grow.

Responsibilities

Teach YMCA swim lessons using prepared lesson plans and curriculum.
Provide direct instruction, motivation, and encouragement to swimmers.
Spend adequate time in the water to provide quality instruction and help participants reach their full potential.
Create a positive, supportive, and welcoming environment for swimmers of all backgrounds and abilities.
Build positive relationships with participants, families, members, and coworkers.
Track attendance, swimmer progress, achievements, and other required documentation.
Have equipment prepared and ready before class begins and properly put away after class.
Follow all YMCA safety policies, emergency procedures, rules, and regulations.
Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and professional development.
Support the Aquatics team and department with additional responsibilities as needed.