Swim Instructor

YMCA Virginia Peninsulas•Newport News, VA

19d

About The Position

Under the supervision of the designated supervisor, the Swim Instructor teaches participants proper swimming strokes and techniques and safety in and around the water. The role supports the YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas’ mission and policies and emphasizes high-quality service to members and guests. The instructor works with staff to welcome, connect, support, and engage members, guests, and staff. The Swim Instructor teaches assigned groups in the water during scheduled sessions, prepares equipment and supplies, tracks each student’s progress, communicates with participants, and maintains required certifications and training. The role also promotes a safe environment, follows emergency and abuse-reporting procedures, participates in staff meetings and training, and supports YMCA fundraising efforts.

Requirements

Be at least 16 years of age.
Obtain YMCA Lifeguarding certification or crossover certification within six months of hire.
Obtain YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor certification or crossover certification within six months of hire.
Hold CPR, First Aid, AED, and O2 certifications.
Complete and maintain required training, including New Employee Orientation, Bloodborne Pathogens, Child Abuse Prevention, and Sexual Harassment training upon hire and annually thereafter.
Successfully complete a criminal background check and Child Protective Services check.
Ability to respond effectively to inquiries or complaints.
Ability to pass the lifeguard water test and meet ongoing drill requirements.
Ability to remain alert and sit or stand for extended periods.
Adequate hearing to detect noises and distinguish distress signals.
Ability to continuously scan all areas of the pool with clear vision.
Ability to perform strenuous physical tasks necessary for a water rescue.
Ability to communicate verbally and project one’s voice 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

Support the YMCA’s mission, vision, and goals.
Promote a professional work environment by modeling caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
Lead in a manner that advances the YMCA’s community cause through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility programs.
Teach in-water swim lessons to assigned groups 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.
Know the skills associated with the 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 last day of each session.
Attend scheduled staff meetings and trainings.
Act as a leader during emergency situations and report accidents or incidents according to the Emergency Communication Action Plan.
Ensure members, guests, and program participants are in a safe environment and actively 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.
Carry out other related duties as deemed necessary by the Aquatics Department and center operations to ensure an excellent member experience.