Group Swim Instructor

Young Mens Christian Association; Columbia (SC); On-site; USD 17,220 - 19,975; Part time

Job summary

The Young Mens Christian Association is seeking a Group Swim Instructor in Columbia, SC. The role involves teaching swimming skills and water safety to participants of all ages. Candidates must have strong swimming skills, excellent communication abilities, and availability for flexible hours.

Qualified applicants will work in a supportive environment and engage with the community, fulfilling the YMCA mission. Required certifications must be obtained within 60 days of employment, including CPR, First Aid, and others.

Qualifications

• Minimum age of 16.
• Strong swimming skills and proficiency in various swim strokes and techniques.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Teach swimming lessons to groups of various ages and skill levels.
• Develop and implement lesson plans appropriate for participants.
• Assess participants’ swimming abilities and provide feedback.

Skills

Swimming skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Job Location: Jeep Rogers Family YMCA - Columbia, SC 29229

Position Type: Part Time

Salary Range: $12.50 - $14.50 Hourly

Position Summary

The Group Swim Instructor plays a crucial role in and is responsible for teaching swimming skills, water safety, and confidence to participants of all ages and abilities.

Essential Functions

• Teach swimming lessons to groups of various ages and skill levels, following YMCA swim lesson curriculum and guidelines. Provide instruction in water safety, stroke technique, and aquatic skills in a supportive and engaging manner.
• Develop and implement lesson plans that are appropriate for the age, ability, and learning style of participants. Adapt lesson plans as needed to accommodate individual needs, progress, and skill development.
• Assess participants’ swimming abilities and skill levels through observation, evaluation, and testing. Provide feedback and guidance to help participants set and achieve their swimming goals and milestones.
• Always ensure the safety and well‑being of participants at all times during swimming lessons. Maintain constant vigilance and awareness of participants’ activities in the water. Enforce safety rules and protocols to prevent accidents and injuries.
• Communicate effectively with participants, staff, parents and guardians to provide information about swimming lessons, progress, and expectations. Answer questions, address concerns, and provide feedback in a timely and professional manner.
• Maintain swimming lesson equipment, including pool toys, flotation devices, and instructional materials. Ensure that the equipment is clean, organized, and in good working condition for use during lessons.
• Stay current on best practices, techniques, and trends in swimming instruction and water safety. Participate in training sessions, workshops, and professional development opportunities to enhance teaching skills and knowledge.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

YMCA Competencies

• Mission Advancement – Accepts and demonstrates the YMCA values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fund‑raising.
• Collaboration – Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view, and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others.
• Operational Effectiveness – Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience. Establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work and actively participates in meetings. Follows budgeting policies and procedures, and reports all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high‑value experience for members.
• Personal Growth – Pursues self‑development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change, and seeks opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths and limitations and how they impact relationships. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; using best practices and provides up‑to‑date knowledge and skills in technology.

Qualifications

• Minimum age of 16.
• Strong swimming skills and proficiency in various swim strokes and techniques.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with participants of all ages and backgrounds.
• Availability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate swimming lesson schedules.
• Previous experience as a swim instructor or lifeguard preferred.
• Certifications required within 60 days of employment: CPR, First Aid, AED, Oxygen.
• Ability to complete the following courses before the 1st work shift: Child Abuse Prevention; Bloodborne Pathogens, Athlete Protection, and Sexual Harassment training.
• Passion for the YMCA mission and commitment to serving the community.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

Must be able to perform all physical requirements of the position; including walking, standing, bending, reaching and lifting up to 50 lbs. at a time.