Swim Instructor II

The YMCA of Metro Atlanta is a leading non-profit organization dedicated to education, wellness, youth development, and community-building. We are committed to positively impacting lives and ensuring everyone—especially children—has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

About the role

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

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 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, encouraging parent or caregiver involvement.
• Convey information on aquatics programs and schedules, referring participants 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-sized 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 for 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 our culture of excellence.

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