Head Swim Instructor

Sevymca; Simi Valley (CA); On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Sevymca is hiring a Head Swim Instructor in Simi Valley, California. This key role involves leading swim lessons and mentoring instructors to ensure high-quality aquatic programs at YMCA pools. Candidates should be certified as YMCA Swim Lesson Instructors and Lifeguard Instructors, with strong skills in aquatic safety, leadership, and communication.

The position focuses on delivering engaging instruction while creating a positive environment for all participants. Join us to foster personal growth and improve water safety through engaging lesson delivery!

Qualifications

• Minimum age of 18 years old.
• Minimum of 3 years teaching swim lessons preferred.
• Strong leadership, communication, and mentoring skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead swim lessons and mentor instructors.
• Plan and deliver lessons using YMCA-approved curriculum.
• Ensure a safe and positive environment for participants.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Mentoring

Aquatic Safety

Education

YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor certification

Lifeguard Instructor certification

Current CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications

Job description

Description

We are seeking a Head Swim Instructor to lead swim lessons, mentor instructors, and support high-quality aquatic programs at our YMCA pools. This role is responsible for delivering engaging instruction, fostering a safe and positive environment, and supporting staff development.

Head Swim Instructors must be certified as YMCA Swim Lesson Instructors (YSL) and as Lifeguard Instructors through the American Red Cross, Y-USA, or another nationally recognized certifying agency. This role focuses on instruction and staff leadership and does not include routine lifeguarding responsibilities, though strong aquatic safety knowledge is required.

Essential Functions

• Plans and delivers swim lessons using YMCA-approved curriculum and skill progressions.
• Creates a positive, engaging, and inclusive environment for all participants.
• Ensures adequate practice time for participants to develop skills and build confidence.
• Provides clear instruction, feedback, and encouragement to support skill development.
• Recognizes and corrects improper techniques using constructive, positive coaching.
• Promotes water safety, personal growth, and enjoyment in every lesson.
• Maintains awareness of participants and surrounding pool environment to support safety.
• Communicates and enforces pool rules, policies, and guidelines.
• Acts as a shift lead, providing guidance and supervision to swim instructor staff during assigned shifts.
• Mentors and trains new and existing swim instructors, including Red Cross-certified lifeguard and CPR training.
• Supports program quality by modeling professional behavior, problem-solving, and calm decision-making.
• Maintains instructional and safety equipment, ensuring readiness for classes.
• Assists with maintaining inventory of medical and safety supplies, including first aid kits and emergency “go bags.”
• Maintains accurate records of lessons, participant progress, and staff training.
• Responds appropriately to incidents and follows YMCA policies for reporting.
• Participates in required staff trainings, in-services, and meetings.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Minimum age of 18 years old.
• Minimum of 3 years teaching swim lessons preferred.
• YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor (YSL) certification, preferred.
• Lifeguard Instructor through the American Red Cross, Y-USA, or other nationally recognized agency, preferred.
• Current CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications.
• Strong leadership, communication, and mentoring skills.
• Ability to work independently and support broader program operations.
• All required pre-employment and online trainings must be completed prior to starting work (paid as applicable).
• Criminal background clearance required.

Physical Demands

• Ability to spend extended periods in the water during lessons (2–4 hours).
• Ability to communicate effectively with swimmers and parents/guardians.
• Ability to lift and move instructional equipment as needed.
• Ability to observe and supervise participants in the pool environment.
• Ability to demonstrate swim skills and instructional techniques.
• Remain alert, calm, and professional throughout assigned shifts.