Head Swim Instructor

Southeast Ventura County YMCA; Simi Valley (CA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

The Southeast Ventura County YMCA is seeking a Head Swim Instructor to lead swim lessons and mentor instructors. This position is critical in fostering a safe and engaging aquatic environment at our pools.

Key responsibilities include planning swim lessons, promoting water safety, and mentoring new swim instructors. Ideal candidates will have strong leadership and communication skills, alongside relevant certifications.

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver swim lessons using YMCA-approved curriculum.
• Create a positive and inclusive environment for participants.
• Mentor and train new swim instructors.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Mentoring

Water safety

Swim instruction

Education

YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor certification

Lifeguard Instructor certification

Current CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications

Job description

POSTION SUMMARY:

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.

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.