Head Coach

Puddles Swim School; Kitchener; On-site; CAD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Puddles Swim School, a new and vibrant swim school in Kitchener, is seeking an experienced Head Coach to lead swim programs. The ideal candidate will nurture young swimmers while collaborating with a passionate team, ensuring a safe and engaging environment. Competitive salary and benefits available.

Benefits

Health Insurance

Paid vacation

Free certification renewal

Annual bonus

Cost-free benefits

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of coaching experience in competitive swim programs.
• Strong communication skills to interact with parents and staff.
• Ability to inspire and manage a team effectively.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee all swim instruction and program development.
• Collaborate with General Manager on aquatics program goals.
• Track student progress and manage instructor schedules.

Skills

Communication

Leadership

Organizational skills

Education

Lifesaving Instructors or National Lifeguard certifications

CPR/First Aid Certification

ChPC Certification (Chartered Professional Coach) preferred

Job description

Job Title: Head Coach – Puddles Swim School

Location: Kitchener, ON

Position Type: Full-time / Permanent

About Us

Proudly Canadian-owned, we’re a new swim school located in the heart of Kitchener, dedicated to nurturing young swimmers and building strong aquatic foundations. Join a supportive, passionate team that values creativity, autonomy, and fun in the workplace. Our mission is to make swimming accessible and enjoyable for children of all ages. We're looking for an experienced and passionate Head Swim Coach to lead our growing team and swim programs. If you’re excited to pioneer a new swim school and be part of something dynamic, we want you to join us!

Role Overview

As the Head Coach, you will be the cornerstone of our coaching team, responsible for the development and implementation of swim programs that are designed to build confidence, skill, and performance. You will oversee every aspect of the school’s aquatics program, including leading and training staff, ensuring the highest safety standards, and cultivating a positive, engaging environment that supports both students and their families.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee all swim instruction, ensuring adherence to curriculum and safety protocols.
• Plan, organize, and deliver lessons for various age groups and skill levels to foster skill progression and water safety.
• Collaborate with the General Manager to develop and implement long-term plans for the aquatics program, including season goals and objectives.
• Inspire, mentor, and manage a team of instructors, ensuring they meet performance expectations and embody professionalism.
• Coordinate with other instructors and staff to ensure smooth scheduling and operations.
• Participate in staff meetings, training, and professional development.
• Provide ongoing training and feedback to staff on coaching techniques and best practices.
• Address any staff concerns and manage schedules, including substitutions.
• Build strong relationships with students and parents, communicating progress and celebrating achievements.
• Track and maintain accurate records of student attendance and progress.
• Maintain a vigilant presence to ensure safety and enforce pool rules during lessons.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and standards.
• Conduct regular pool area inspections and report any issues to management.
• Assist in maintaining a clean and organized pool area.
• Actively contribute to building a supportive, engaged community both within the school and the local area.
  
  

Requirements

• Passion for Swimming: A deep, genuine passion for swimming and coaching, with a focus on developing swimmers’ technical skills, confidence, and performance.
• In-depth knowledge of swimming pool safety regulations and procedures
• Experience: 3-5 years of coaching experience, ideally in a leadership or head coach role within competitive swim programs or swim schools.
• Strong Communication Skills: Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with swimmers, parents, and staff.
• Leadership Ability: A natural leader with the ability to inspire, motivate, and guide a team of coaches toward a common vision and goal.
• Child-Centered Approach: Understanding of child development and ability to tailor coaching methods for different age groups and skill levels.
• Strong Organizational Skills: Ability to manage schedules, track progress, and ensure a well-organized and efficient coaching environment.
• Lifesaving Instructors or National Lifeguard certifications
• CPR/First Aid Certification: Current certification in CPR and First Aid
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work effectively with children, parents, and staff.
• Ability to manage time effectively and prioritize tasks.
• ChPC Certification (Chartered Professional Coach) preferred.
• Background in competitive swimming, either as a coach or swimmer.
• Knowledge of swim school business operations or similar and growth strategies.
  
  

Why Join Us?

• Make an Impact: Be part of a growing, purpose-driven swim school where your work truly makes a difference from the ground up, shaping the future of young swimmers, and making a difference in your community.
• Fun & Passionate Team: Be part of a team that shares your passion for swimming, is dedicated to helping others succeed, and knows how to have fun while doing it.
• Competitive Benefits: Enjoy cost-free benefits.
• Free Certification Renewal: we will cover the costs associated with renewing certifications.
• Health Insurance: We care about your well-being and offer comprehensive health coverage.
• Vacation Pay: Everyone needs time to recharge — enjoy paid vacation to rest and reset.
• Annual Bonus: We celebrate team success together with performance-based annual bonuses.
  
  

If you're a passionate, driven coach looking for an opportunity to build something special and shape the future of swimming, we want to hear from you!

How To Apply

Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and interest in the position.

We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

• Please apply by June 30, 2025. We aim to fill this role by July 21, 2025.