Swim Instructor

YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas•Newport News, VA
•$15 - $18

About The Position

The Swim Instructor teaches participants proper swimming strokes and 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 high-quality service and a safe environment for participants.

Requirements

  • Minimum age of 16.
  • Certification in CPR, First Aid, AED, and O2.
  • Complete and maintain required trainings, including New Employee Orientation, Bloodborne Pathogens, Child Abuse Prevention, and Sexual Harassment, upon hire and annually thereafter.
  • Satisfactory criminal background check and Child Protective Services check.
  • Ability to respond effectively to inquiries or complaints.
  • Ability to pass a lifeguard water test and meet requirements of ongoing drills.
  • Ability to remain alert.
  • Ability to 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 a distance in normal and loud situations.

Nice To Haves

  • Red Cross Lifeguarding or YMCA Lifeguarding; must cross over or become certified in YMCA Lifeguarding within six months of hire.
  • Red Cross Water Safety Instructor or YMCA Swim Lesson certification; must cross over or become certified as a YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor within six months of hire.

Responsibilities

  • Support the YMCA’s mission, vision, and goals.
  • Promote a professional work environment by modeling caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
  • Lead programs that advance youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
  • Teach scheduled in-water swim lessons to assigned participant groups and attend without absence.
  • Ensure equipment and supplies are accessible before class begins.
  • Maintain a skills checklist for each student throughout each session and be familiar with the skills in 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 the session.
  • Attend scheduled staff meetings and trainings.
  • Lead in emergency situations and report accidents or incidents according to the Emergency Communication Action Plan.
  • Help ensure members, guests, and participants are in a safe environment and follow the center’s Emergency Operations Plan.
  • Maintain relevant certifications and follow association standard guidelines.
  • Promote and participate in YMCA fundraising efforts, including Annual Support and United Way Campaigns.
  • Perform other related duties as needed by the Aquatics Department and center operations to support an excellent member experience.

Benefits

  • YMCA Adult Membership.
  • 12% retirement benefit upon meeting the requirements of the National YMCA Retirement Fund.
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