Grand Rapids Kroc Center - Swim Instructor

The Salvation Army North & Central Illinois Division; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

The Salvation Army North & Central Illinois Division is seeking a Swim Instructor to design instructional programs, prepare lesson plans, and deliver swimming lessons for participants of all ages and abilities. The role emphasizes safety, engagement, and structured teaching within a supportive aquatics team.

Responsibilities include pool upkeep, equipment management, class coordination, and timely documentation of progress and incidents.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 17 years old.
• 1 year experience teaching swim lessons or coaching.
• Must be able to read, write and communicate in English; ability to also speak Spanish (preferred).
• Experience working with the public.

Responsibilities

• Inspect and maintain cleanliness of pool and related areas.
• Assist with setup, cleanup and maintenance of lesson equipment; report broken items.
• Instruct swimming lessons by presenting a structured plan and ensuring safety and engagement.
• Demonstrate proper swimming techniques and manage classes professionally.
• Provide feedback to swimmers to meet development goals and adapt class plans as needed.
• Implement health safety measures and ensure participant compliance.
• Complete lesson plans, attendance records, and program evaluations as required.
• Attend instructor in-service training and coordinate with program manager.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

English communication

Spanish (preferred)

Tools

Microsoft Office 365

TEAMS

SharePoint

Job description

Position Summary

The Swim Instructor gives swim instruction to students of all ages and ability levels. This role will design instructional programs, prepare lesson plans and instructional materials, present subject matter by demonstrating proper techniques, and perform classroom management tasks.

Essential Responsibilities

• Inspect and maintain cleanliness of swimming pool and associated areas
• Assist with set-up, clean up and maintenance of lesson equipment; take regular inventory and report broken or replacement requests as necessary
• Instruct swimming lessons of all ages and ability by developing and presenting a structured lesson plan; ensure the safety and engagement of each participant
• Demonstrate proper swimming techniques and manage classes fairly, professionally and enthusiastically
• Assist swimmers in meeting development goal through individual and group critique and feedback; communicate classroom changes and modifications as needed
• Implement health safety measures for classes and ensure compliance/adherence by class participants
• Complete and organize lesson plans, reports, attendance records, program evaluations and/or incident/accident reports as needed
• Attend quarterly instructor in-service training
• Maintain open communication with the respective program manager/coordinator in regard to class development and scheduling
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

Additional Responsibilities

Education/Experience

• Must be at least 17 years old
• Experience working with the public
• 1 year experience teaching swim lessons or coaching swim team
• Must be able to read, write and communicate in English; ability to also speak Spanish (preferred)

Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

• Must have strong interpersonal skills and the ability to speak in front of others
• Be able to read, write and communicate in English with the preferred ability to also communicate in Spanish
• Able to function effectively with minimal or no supervision

Computer Skills

• Proficient in Microsoft Office 365
• Working knowledge of TEAMS and SharePoint

Certificates And Licenses

• Lifeguard certification highly recommended
• American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor (WSI) certification required within one year of employment; only co‑teaching is available without certification
• Must obtain and maintain all required certifications and training including First Aid and CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer and American Red Cross Oxygen Administration certification within six months of employment
• Complete Safe From Harm training, and keep current as needed