Swim Instructor
About The Position
The Swim Instructor teaches participants proper stroke and swimming techniques, as well as safety in and around the water. Under the supervision of the designated supervisor, the instructor supports the YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas’ mission, policies, and goals, and works with staff to welcome, connect, support, and engage members, guests, and staff. The role emphasizes member satisfaction, safety, and a positive YMCA experience. The instructor leads swim lessons, tracks students’ progress, maintains relevant certifications, follows safety and reporting procedures, and participates in scheduled meetings, trainings, and fundraising efforts.
Requirements
- Be at least 16 years of age.
- Hold CPR, First Aid, AED, and O2 certifications.
- Complete and maintain required trainings, including New Employee Orientation, Bloodborne Pathogens, Child Abuse Prevention, and Sexual Harassment training, upon hire and annually thereafter.
- Satisfactorily complete a criminal background check and Child Protective Services check.
- Be able to respond effectively to inquiries or complaints.
- Pass the lifeguard water test and meet ongoing drill requirements.
- Remain alert and sit or stand for extended periods.
- Hear noises and distinguish distress signals adequately.
- Continuously scan all areas of the pool with clear vision.
- Perform strenuous physical tasks necessary for a water rescue.
- Communicate verbally and project the voice across distances in normal and loud situations.
Nice To Haves
- Red Cross Lifeguarding or YMCA Lifeguarding certification is preferred; cross over to or obtain YMCA Lifeguarding certification within six months of hire.
- Red Cross Water Safety Instructor or YMCA Swim Lesson certification is preferred; cross over to or obtain YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor certification within six months of hire.
Responsibilities
- Support the YMCA’s mission, vision, and goals.
- Model the values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility to promote a professional work environment.
- Lead in a manner that advances community programs focused on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
- Teach scheduled in-water swim lessons to assigned participants without absence.
- Ensure equipment and supplies are accessible before class begins.
- Maintain a skills checklist for each student throughout each session.
- Know the skills for 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 final day of each session.
- Attend scheduled staff meetings and trainings.
- Act as a leader in emergencies and report accidents or incidents according to the Emergency Communication Action Plan.
- Help ensure members, guests, and program participants are safe, and follow the center’s 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 duties assigned by the Aquatics Department and center operations to support an excellent member experience.
Benefits
- Excellent benefits, including 12% retirement upon meeting the requirements of the National YMCA Retirement Fund.
- YMCA Adult Membership.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
