Swim Instructor

MERRIMACK VALLEY YMCA•Andover, MA
•$17 - $17•Onsite

About The Position

The Swim Instructor provides safe, motivational, and knowledgeable swimming instruction to members and program participants. Under the supervision of the Aquatics Director, the instructor is responsible for the safety and proper instruction of class participants, maintaining a safe and positive environment, and supporting YMCA programs and member satisfaction. The role includes preparing and returning class equipment, recording attendance and skill progress, completing required reports, attending trainings and meetings, and helping with department events and private lessons when available. Instructors are expected to model YMCA character values and provide courteous service to members, participants, volunteers, and potential members.

Requirements

  • Must be at least 15 years old.
  • Must have considerable ability as a swimmer and the knowledge to teach others to swim.
  • CPR for the Professional Rescuer certification.
  • AED certification.
  • First Aid certification.
  • Effective problem-solving skills.
  • Demonstrated communication skills.
  • Ability to complete certification requirements online and in person.
  • Knowledge of aquatics and various YMCA programs and events.
  • Availability to communicate with parents or guardians before and/or after classes.

Nice To Haves

  • American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor (WSI) or YMCA Swim Lessons (YSL) certification.
  • Bilingual Spanish skills.

Responsibilities

  • Provide safe, competent aquatic instruction using nationally recognized YMCA of the USA guidelines.
  • Maintain constant visual surveillance of class participants and never leave children unattended.
  • Prevent accidents by staying alert and responding promptly and appropriately to emergencies according to YMCA procedures.
  • Teach with encouragement and positive reinforcement.
  • Enforce pool rules consistently, courteously, and fairly, and explain their purpose to family users.
  • Set up equipment for classes and return it afterward.
  • Maintain attendance records and track participants’ skill accomplishments.
  • Attend scheduled in-service training programs, staff trainings, and meetings; update skills as required.
  • Find a substitute when needed and document coverage with the Aquatics Director; be available to substitute for other staff and follow substitution procedures.
  • Be available to parents, participants, and staff to answer questions or refer them to the appropriate person.
  • Report incidents, accidents, unusual events, and safety concerns to a supervisor promptly, with required documentation.
  • Complete and submit mid-session reports, end-of-session reports, and other required qualitative or quantitative documentation by the specified dates.
  • Teach private lessons when available and help with department events.
  • Promote YMCA membership and programs, increase their visibility and credibility, and make appropriate suggestions about YMCA programs and events.
  • Deliver high-quality service and courtesy, support member satisfaction, and use appropriate creativity in class design.
  • Maintain a neat and orderly work area to promote efficiency and safety.
  • Follow the Merrimack Valley YMCA’s mission and philosophy and model its values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
  • Maintain a safe and enjoyable atmosphere for participants, staff, and members.
  • Perform other duties as required by the supervisor or Senior Management.
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