Swim Instructor II

About the role

The YMCA of Metro Atlanta is a leading non-profit dedicated to education, wellness, youth development, and community-building. We’re seeking a Swim Instructor II to teach swim lessons to all age groups and skill levels, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. This role reports directly to the Aquatics Director and involves leading group, private/semi-private, and adaptive swim classes while motivating and instructing students.

Responsibilities

• Instruct swimming lessons (group, private, and adaptive) for all ages and skill levels in accordance with YMCA guidelines.
• Create and implement lesson plans tailored to age and swim level, supporting participants in achieving their goals.
• Teach proper swimming techniques, including strokes, breathing, and water safety, following YMCA adaptive swim lesson standards.
• 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; encourage parent or caregiver involvement.
• Share information on aquatics programs and schedules; refer 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.
• Lift equipment and small to average-sized children as needed.

Requirements

• YMCA Swim Instructor certification or equivalent.
• CPR for the Professional Rescuer, AED, Basic First Aid, and Emergency Oxygen certifications (required).
• Ability 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.
• Minimum of 6 months of experience working with students.
• Strong swimming skills and knowledge of various swimming techniques.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to adapt teaching methods for different learning styles, including cognitive and physical disabilities.
• Knowledge of behavior management techniques for working with children.
• CPR and First Aid certification (ability to obtain within 30 days of employment).
• Ability to pass a pre-employment background check, including criminal record check, drug screening, and motor vehicle record (MVR) per company policy.
• Must be legally eligible to work in the U.S. without current or future sponsorship.

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 our culture of excellence. We value CARING, HONESTY, RESPECT, and RESPONSIBILITY and seek like-minded individuals to join our team.

The YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by law.

Location: Cecil Pruett Community Center YMCA