Swim Instructor I & II

Department: Aquatics | Location: North Suburban YMCA | Position Type: Non-Exempt (Hourly)

About the role

Under the supervision of the Aquatics Director, this position is responsible for teaching swim lessons under the YMCA of the USA model. Swim Instructors should have experience teaching swim lessons and enjoy working with people, especially children as many lesson opportunities are with children.

Responsibilities

• Provide excellent member service by exceeding member expectations.
• Report on the deck 15 minutes before the scheduled shift dressed in a bathing suit.
• Have equipment ready before your class and store it promptly after your class. Make good use of available equipment, pool space, and personal resources.
• All instructors must start and end classes on time.
• Agree to teach for an entire session. Absenteeism must be kept to a minimum.
• Communicate child’s progress with parents on an ongoing basis, not just when handing out progress reports.
• Adhere to all pool rules and policies. Begin the first class with a reminder of the rules, bathrooms, etc.
• Know and implement any and all emergency procedures.
• Maintain accurate attendance for each class as well as updated skill completions using all required forms. Any student missing 3 classes should be reported to the Aquatic Director.
• Take notes as needed on the strengths and weaknesses of each child in the class.
• Maintain control and safety of the class. Keep a watchful eye on everyone in the class. All children in flotation should always be within arm’s reach, and never turn your back on a class.
• Exercise good judgment, competence in meeting the goals, objectives, needs and interest of the YMCA, the class as a whole and the individual student.
• Incorporate all five program components into each lesson: personal safety, water orientation/stroke development, water sports and games, rescue and personal growth.
• Maintain a clear and consistent line of communication with all supervisors.
• Participate in all branch safety and quality drills.
• Attend all required monthly and yearly in-service trainings.
• Engage in active listening with members in order to build relationships, understand each individual’s goals and interests and take the initiative to assist in the achievement of those goals.
• Maintain a professional image and manner consistent with the YMCA mission and goals at all times.
• All other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Physically and verbally able to interact with members and staff.
• Must be able to scan the pool visually.
• May be required to sit or stand for extended periods of time.
• At times, be able to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Child Abuse Prevention training (within first four weeks of employment).
• Respect in the Workplace (Sexual Harassment Prevention) training.
• CPR, First Aid, O2 certification.
• YMCA Swim Lessons (YSL) certification (preferred).
• WSI certification.

Work environment

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to high.

Schedule

Shifts vary, but may include early mornings, nights, and weekends.

Pay

$16.00 – $22.00 per hour.

Benefits

• FREE YMCA Membership for you.
• Discount on Specialty Programs like Personal Training and Swimming Lessons.
• Discounted or FREE family membership.
• Robust Retirement Plan up to 10% (see eligibility requirements).
• Health, Dental, and Vision Benefit Package.
• Vacation and Sick Time (part-time employees receive sick time).
• Developing your leadership skills in a caring, challenging & diverse working environment.
• Exploring a wide range of opportunities as you learn new skills and functions.
• Shaping the future of young children while making a difference each day for our communities and each other.
• Engaging in YMCA career training programs and working alongside those who have the same passion.
• A healthy work/life balance.