Swim Instructor II

About the role

The Swim Instructor II teaches swim lessons to all age groups and skill levels, maintaining a supportive, positive atmosphere that welcomes and respects all individuals. This role provides direct leadership, instruction, and motivation for students in group, private/semi-private, or adaptive swim classes, reporting directly to the Aquatics Director.

Responsibilities

• Instruct swimming lessons (group, private, and/or adaptive) for all ages and swim levels in accordance with YMCA guidelines.
• Create and implement lesson plans according to age and swim level, supporting members and participants in achieving their goals.
• Teach proper swimming techniques, including strokes, breathing, and water safety, following YMCA adaptive swim lesson skills.
• Provide feedback and encouragement to help students improve their swimming skills.
• Ensure a safe and positive learning environment for all participants.
• Monitor and manage student behavior during lessons.
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with volunteers, members, participants, and colleagues.
• Help participants and families connect with each other and the YMCA, encouraging parent or caregiver involvement.
• Convey information on aquatics programs and schedules, referring participants and families to other programs as appropriate.
• Maintain records such as attendance and progress reports.
• Follow all YMCA policies, rules, regulations, and procedures, including emergency and safety protocols; complete incident and accident reports as necessary.
• Organize and put away class equipment; report damaged equipment.
• Train and supervise class aides.
• Support and lead quarterly in-services.
• Demonstrate ability to instruct and observe participants in proper stroke techniques.
• Ability to lift equipment and a small to average-size child.

Requirements

• YMCA Swim Instructor certification or equivalent.
• CPR for the Professional Rescuer, AED, Basic First Aid, and Emergency Oxygen certifications required.
• Must be able to demonstrate swim instructor skills in accordance with YMCA standards.
• Principles of Youth Development E-Learning (within 30 days of hire).
• Y-USA Leader Certification (within 90 days of hire).
• At least 17 years of age.
• At least 6 months of experience.
• Previous experience working with students.
• Strong swimming skills and knowledge of various swimming techniques.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to adapt teaching methods to accommodate different learning styles, including cognitive and physical disabilities.
• Knowledge of behavior management techniques for working with children.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience working with students, preferably in swim instruction or coaching.
• Current or former competitive swimming experience.
• Adaptive swim certification or ability to obtain within 30 days of employment.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

The physical demands described are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

Benefits

The YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta offers excellent benefits and career opportunities as part of a culture of excellence. The Y values CARING, HONESTY, RESPECT, and RESPONSIBILITY.

Employment requirements: Ability to pass a pre-employment background check, including criminal record check, drug screening, and motor vehicle record (MVR) according to company policy. Must be legally eligible to work in the U.S. without current or future sponsorship.