Swim Lesson Instructor II

About the role

The Swim Instructor II supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. This position provides a superior experience to members and participants by leading swim lessons, swim league programs, and aquatics programs in a safe, effective, and engaging manner. The Swim Instructor II is also responsible for delivering exceptional customer service by responding to member and guest needs, maintains a safe aquatics environment, promotes skill development, maintains safety standards, and helps 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.
• Provide coaching and mentorship to Swim Instructor Level I staff, offering guidance on performance expectations and supporting Aquatics leadership in upholding policies and procedures.
• Assist with the training and onboarding of new Swim Instructors.
• 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.
• Maintenance Employees—ensure unused rooms and closets remain locked; routinely monitor high-risk locations (locker-rooms and bathrooms), etc.

Requirements

• At least one year of 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 Required

• 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