Swim Instructor

YMCA Virginia Peninsulas•Hampton, VA

19d

About The Position

Under the supervision of the designated supervisor, the Swim Instructor teaches participants proper swimming strokes and techniques, along with safety in and around the water. The role supports the YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas’ mission, policies, and goals, and works with staff to welcome, connect, support, and engage members, guests, and colleagues. The Swim Instructor helps provide a safe, welcoming, and high-quality experience by teaching scheduled swim lessons, monitoring participant progress, maintaining certifications, and following center safety and emergency procedures. The position also supports YMCA programs and fundraising efforts and contributes to member satisfaction, community relationships, and a positive working environment.

Requirements

At least 16 years of age.
Certification in CPR, First Aid, AED, and O2.
Complete and maintain required training, including New Employee Orientation, Bloodborne Pathogens, Child Abuse Prevention, and Sexual Harassment training upon hire and annually thereafter.
Satisfactory completion of 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.
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 distances in normal and loud situations.
Maintain required certifications.

Nice To Haves

Red Cross Lifeguarding or YMCA Lifeguarding certification; crossover or certification to YMCA Lifeguarding is required within six months of hire.
Red Cross Water Safety Instructor or YMCA Swim Lesson certification; crossover or certification as a YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor is required within six months of hire.

Responsibilities

Support the YMCA’s mission, vision, and goals.
Model the values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility and promote a professional work environment.
Lead in a manner that advances the YMCA’s work in youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
Teach in-water swim lessons to assigned groups for scheduled sessions and attend without absence.
Ensure equipment and supplies are accessible before classes begin.
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 staff meetings and trainings as scheduled.
Act as a leader in emergency situations 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 the Annual Support and United Way Campaigns.
Carry out other related duties as deemed necessary by the Aquatics Department and center operations.
Help achieve center membership growth and retention goals and high member satisfaction.
Support a positive YMCA image and a pleasant, comfortable working environment.
Strengthen relationships through intentional interactions and help maintain a safe, clean, and enjoyable facility.
Meet department quality standards as assessed through Association Audit Scores.