Swim Instructor

Valley Shore YMCA • Westbrook, CT

8d • $18

About The Position

The Valley Shore YMCA is seeking an enthusiastic, patient, and skilled Swim Instructor to support our mission of strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. This role provides private and semi-private swimming lessons to participants of all ages and abilities, helping individuals build confidence, develop swimming skills, and learn essential water safety practices in a supportive and encouraging environment. The Swim Instructor delivers high-quality, individualized instruction tailored to each participant’s goals, from water acclimation to advanced stroke development. This position ensures a safe and positive learning experience while modeling and promoting the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. Join the Valley Shore YMCA as a Swim Instructor – Private Lessons and be part of a mission-driven Aquatics team dedicated to promoting water safety, health, and confidence. In this role, you’ll lead individualized swimming sessions designed to meet each participant’s goals, from water acclimation to advanced stroke refinement. This opportunity is ideal for experienced swimmers, coaches, or aquatic professionals who enjoy working one-on-one with children and adults in a rewarding environment. Enjoy free Valley Shore YMCA membership, training opportunities, and flexible hours while making a difference in your community.

Requirements

• Minimum age of 16 years.
• Education: Certifications - YMCA Swim Instructor Certification or equivalent preferred.
• Adult and Pediatric First Aid/ CPR/ AED required within 6 months of hire (YMCA can assist with training).
• Skills and Experience: Strong swimming ability and understanding of stroke mechanics, and water safety.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage participants of all ages and backgrounds.
• Ability to relate effectively to diverse populations across social and economic segments.
• Understanding of inclusion and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
• Sufficient strength, agility, and mobility to perform essential functions of the position and to supervise program activities and respond to emergencies and challenging situations.
• Ability to instruct, demonstrate, and observe participants in proper stroke techniques.
• Ability to lift equipment and assist swimmers of varying sizes and abilities.
• Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to environmental and safety concerns.

Nice To Haves

• Experience teaching swim lessons or coaching in a structured sports program preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide one-on-one and small group swim instruction in accordance with YMCA guidelines and safety standards.
• Plan and deliver appropriate swim lessons by preparing lesson plans, maintaining participant records, and evaluating swimmer progress to determine instruction needs.
• Maintain constant supervision and follow all safety and emergency procedures; complete incident and accident reports and communicate concerns to management as required.
• Communicate professionally with parents, guardians, members, management, and co-workers regarding schedules, progress, and program-related information.
• Demonstrate effective time management by arriving prepared and on time, setting up and putting away equipment, and reporting damaged or unsafe equipment.
• Support the Aquatics team by assisting with pool setup (including lane lines and safety equipment) and helping maintain a clean, organized, and safe pool environment.
• Attend and actively participate in required staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities, and maintain current status on all required certifications.
• Perform additional duties and projects assigned by the Aquatics Director.

Benefits

• Free Valley Shore YMCA Membership (includes access to all fitness facilities).
• Discounted family memberships and certain program fees (childcare, swim lessons, camps, etc.).
• Eligible for tuition discounts at selected colleges.
• Flexible scheduling to fit school, family, or other work commitments.
• Paid training and CPR/AED certification assistance.
• Opportunities for advancement into Wellness, Aquatics, or Youth Program departments.
• Supportive, community-oriented work environment that values wellness and personal growth.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed