Swim Instructor

YMCA Virginia Peninsulas•Williamsburg, VA

About The Position

Under the supervision of the designated supervisor, the Swim Instructor teaches participants proper stroke and swim technique and water safety. In keeping with the YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas’ mission, policies, and goals, the instructor helps ensure high-quality service and works with staff to welcome, connect, support, and engage members, guests, and colleagues. The role supports youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, while helping maintain a safe and positive environment.

Requirements

Minimum age of 16.
Cross over or become certified as a YMCA Lifeguard within six months of hire.
Cross over or become certified as a YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor within six months of hire.
Certification in CPR, First Aid, AED, and O2.
Complete and maintain required trainings, including New Employee Orientation (NEO), Bloodborne Pathogens, Child Abuse Prevention (CAP), and Sexual Harassment training upon hire and annually thereafter.
Satisfactory completion of criminal background and Child Protective Services checks.
Ability to respond effectively to inquiries or complaints.
Ability to pass the lifeguard water test and meet requirements of ongoing drills.
Ability to remain alert, sit or stand for extended periods, hear noises and distinguish distress signals, continuously scan pool areas with clear vision, perform strenuous physical tasks needed for a water rescue, and communicate verbally across distances in normal and loud situations.

Nice To Haves

Red Cross Lifeguarding or YMCA Lifeguarding certification.
Red Cross Water Safety Instructor or YMCA Swim Lesson certification.

Responsibilities

Teach in-water swim lessons to assigned participants during scheduled sessions and attend without absence.
Ensure equipment and supplies are accessible before class begins.
Maintain a skills checklist for each student throughout each session and understand the skills for swim levels the instructor is certified to teach.
Answer questions and communicate participants’ progress.
Wear an approved one-piece swimsuit or professional attire when appropriate.
Follow mandated abuse-reporting requirements.
Prepare certificates for distribution on the final day of each session.
Attend scheduled staff meetings and trainings.
Act as a leader during emergencies and report accidents or incidents according to the Emergency Communication Action Plan.
Help ensure members, guests, and program participants are in a safe environment and follow the center Emergency Operations Plan.
Maintain all relevant certifications and follow association standard guidelines.
Promote and participate in YMCA fundraising efforts, including Annual Support and United Way Campaigns.
Support the YMCA’s mission, vision, and goals; model caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility; and help advance the YMCA’s cause through programs focused on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
Carry out other related duties as deemed necessary by the Aquatics Department and center operations.
Help achieve center membership growth and retention, member satisfaction, a positive YMCA image, a comfortable work environment, strong relationships, facility safety and cleanliness, and department quality standards.