Swim Instructor

About the Role
Help kids and adults gain confidence and safety in the water! At Countryside YMCA, our Swim Instructors teach swimming skills to participants of all ages while keeping every class safe, engaging, and fun. Reporting to the Swim Lesson Director, you’ll lead small-group lessons using the YMCA Swim Lessons curriculum and follow our aquatic policies to create a positive learning environment. As part of the Y, a nonprofit dedicated to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, your work directly strengthens our community.

What You’ll Do

In the water

• Teach lessons using prepared lesson plans that follow YMCA curriculum standards
• Keep constant eyes on every swimmer and maintain a safe class at all times
• Keep classes active so participants get the most out of their time in the pool
• Adapt instruction to each learner’s needs, whether teaching children or adults
• Celebrate progress and good behavior with positive reinforcement
• Assess each participant’s skills on the first day and let your supervisor know if anyone should be moved to a different level

Tracking progress

• Keep skill sheets current with accurate records of attendance and skills achieved
• Complete and hand out progress reports before each new registration session opens
• Maintain attendance and other required records

Connecting with families

• Build genuine relationships with swimmers and their families and help them feel part of the Y community
• Encourage parent involvement and identify families who may be interested in volunteering

Team and safety responsibilities

• Set up and put away class equipment
• Follow all YMCA and pool policies, including emergency and safety procedures, and help complete incident or accident reports when needed
• Attend scheduled trainings and help train new instructors when asked
• Communicate time-off requests to your supervisor and secure a qualified sub for any schedule conflicts