Swim Lesson Instructor I

The YMCA of Greenville is a dynamic and rapidly growing association that seeks to strengthen the community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

About the role

This position provides a superior experience to members and participants by leading swim lessons and aquatics programs in a safe, effective, and engaging manner. The Swim Lesson Instructor I is responsible for delivering exceptional customer service, promoting skill development, maintaining safety standards, and helping ensure the aquatics environment is clean, organized, and welcoming.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and lead assigned swim classes with appropriate structure, instructional methods, and equipment.
• Keep lessons dynamic by incorporating new skills, drills, and progressions to support ongoing development.
• Provide timely, accurate, and constructive feedback to participants (or their parents) about their progress and areas for improvement.
• Greet and welcome participants at the beginning of each class to create a positive and engaging tone.
• Respond appropriately and promptly to all member and guest needs or concerns, escalating unresolved issues to the supervisor.
• Maintain a clean, safe, fully stocked, and organized work area.
• Report equipment needs or concerns to the supervisor promptly.
• Ensure all aquatics equipment is properly cleaned and stored after each session.
• Wear the required uniform to uphold a professional appearance and align with YMCA branding standards.
• Maintain current instructional certifications relevant to the position.
• Maintain vigilance in supervising aquatic environments, including locker rooms, restrooms, and storage areas.
• Consistently follow safety procedures during instruction, transitions, and emergencies.
• Adhere to policies related to boundaries with consumers.
• Attend/complete required abuse risk management training.
• Adhere to procedures related to managing high-risk activities and supervising consumers.
• Follow mandated reporting requirements.
• Adhere to job-specific abuse risk management responsibilities (e.g., ensure unused rooms and closets remain locked; routinely monitor high-risk locations such as locker-rooms and bathrooms).

Requirements

• Minimum age 16 years old (or 15 with valid Red Cross or similar certification).
• Experience in aquatics instruction, lifeguarding, or youth programming preferred.
• Strong communication and customer service skills with enthusiasm for youth development and safety.
• Ability to enforce policies, respond calmly in emergencies, and lead structured swim instruction.

Certifications

• Bloodborne Pathogens Training - within 30 days
• CPR, First Aid, and AED Certification - within 30 days
• YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor (YSLI) Certification - within 6 months

Benefits

• Instant access to earned wages before payday ("Work Today, Get Paid Today").
• Free individual Y membership, with 75% discount on upgraded memberships.
• 50% discount on programs, including childcare, sports, aquatics, and personal training.
• 12% retirement contribution once fully vested.
• 403b retirement savings plan.

Schedule

Shifts may vary.