Swim Instructor

Imagine being part of one of the most respected human services organizations in the world—a place where your work positively influences the lives of others, a place where you thrive in a values-based environment, a place where you are building a better future for yourself and your community.


General Function:
Under the supervision of the designated supervisor, and in harmony with the mission and purpose of the established policies and goals of the YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas, the Swim Instructor is responsible for teaching participants proper stroke and swim technique, teaching safety in and around the water. With an emphasis on ensuring the highest quality service to members and guests, the Swim Instructor will work with all staff to welcome, connect, support, and engage all members, guests, and staff.

Qualifications:
1. Minimum of 16 years of age.
2. Red Cross Lifeguarding/YMCA Lifeguarding preferred. Cross over/certified to YMCA Lifeguarding within six months of hire.
3. Red Cross Water Safety Instructor or YMCA Swim Lesson preferred. Cross over/certified as YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor within six months of hire.
4. Certification in CPR/First Aid/AED/O2.
5. Complete and maintain required trainings to include but not limited to: New Employee Orientation (NEO), Bloodborne Pathogens, Child Abuse Prevention (CAP), and Sexual Harassment upon hire and annually thereafter.
6. Satisfactory completion of a criminal background check and Child Protective Services check.

Essential Functions:
1. Support the mission, vision and goals of the YMCA.
2. Promote a professional work environment through character development by modeling the values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.
3. Lead in a manner that advances our cause to strengthen the foundations of community through programs that focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.
4. Teach swim lessons in the water to assigned group of participants for scheduled session without absence.
5. Ensure all equipment and supplies are accessible prior to class beginning.
6. Maintain skills checklist for each student throughout each session.
7. Be familiar with skills in swim levels for which you are certified to teach.
8. Be available to answer questions and communicate participants’ progress.
9. Wear proper attire (approved one-piece swimsuit), or professional attire when appropriate.
10. Follow mandated abuse reporting requirements.
11. Ensure certificates are ready to hand out on the last day of the session.
12. Attend staff meetings and trainings as scheduled.
13. Act as a leader in emergency situations. Report any accidents or incidents according to Emergency Communication Action Plan.
14. Ensure all members, guests, and program participants are in a safe environment and actively follow center Emergency Operations Plan (EOP).
15. Responsible for maintaining all relative certifications.
16. Follow association standard guidelines.
17. Promote and participate in YMCA fundraising efforts to include Annual Support and United Way Campaigns.
18. Carry out other related duties as deemed necessary by the Aquatics Department and center operations to ensure an excellent member experience.

YMCA Competencies (Leader):
Engaging Community, Communication & Influence, Inclusion, Collaboration, Functional Expertise

Skills and Ability Requirements:
1. Ability to respond effectively to inquiries or complaints.
2. Ability to pass lifeguard water test and meet requirements of ongoing drills.
3. Must be able to remain alert.
4. Must be able to sit or stand for extended periods.
5. Adequate ability to hear noises and distinguish distress signals.
6. Ability to continuously scan all areas of the pool with clear vision.
7. Ability to perform strenuous physical tasks necessary for a water rescue.
8. Ability to communicate verbally, including projecting voice across distance in normal and loud situations.

Effect on End Results:
1. The membership growth and retention plan for the center is achieved.
2. A high degree of member satisfaction is achieved as measured by Net Promoters.
3. A positive image of the YMCA is portrayed to members, staff, volunteers and the community.
4. A pleasant and comfortable working environment is maintained for all staff.
5. Relationships are strengthened through intentional interactions.
6. The facility will be safe, clean and an enjoyable place as measured by Q Checks and Risk Management Audits.
7. Superior quality standards are met as evidenced by department’s Association Audit Score.


Excellent benefits, including 12% retirement upon meeting the requirements of the National YMCA Retirement Fund. Includes YMCA Adult Membership.