Special Needs Swim Instructor

Goldfish Swim School - Colonie; City of Albany (NY); On-site; USD 21,000 - 28,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k)

401(k) matching

Dental insurance

Free uniforms

Health insurance

Training & development

Vision insurance

Job summary

A leading swim instruction provider in Albany is seeking a Special Needs Swim Instructor for its Golden Learners Program. This role involves teaching children with special needs, providing individualized instruction in a supportive environment. Those with a passion for working with children and experience in special education are encouraged to apply. The company offers specialized training and opportunities for career growth, within a positive team culture. Great benefits including weekly pay and health insurance are also available.

Qualifications

• Prior experience working with children with special needs is required.
• Experience with children having autism, Down syndrome, and sensory processing disorders.
• Ability to remain calm and attentive in dynamic environments.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential.
• Follow safety procedures and lesson plans.
• Reliable transportation and consistent availability.

Responsibilities

• Teach swim lessons using the Goldfish Swim School curriculum.
• Work one-on-one or in small groups with children.
• Maintain a safe and encouraging learning environment.
• Track and document student progress.
• Ensure student safety at all times.
• Track and document student progress.
• Communicate effectively with parents/guardians regarding goals and progress.
• Use problem-solving and flexibility to address challenges during lessons.
• Inspect pool areas before and after classes and report concerns.
• Maintain and properly store pool equipment.
• Perform light cleaning duties as needed.
• Attend required trainings and in-service meetings.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Skills

Compassion and empathy

High emotional intelligence

Flexibility and adaptability

Strong observational skills

Reliable communication

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Education

Previous experience working with children with special needs

Background in special education or similar fields

Job description

Benefits

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Free uniforms
• Health insurance
• Training & development
• Vision insurance

Job Description: Special Needs Swim Instructor (Golden Learners Program)

Are you looking for a FUN and AMAZING place to work where you can make a real difference? Then look no further!

IF YOU’RE PASSIONATE ABOUT WORKING WITH CHILDREN OF ALL ABILITIES, YOU’RE AT THE RIGHT PLACE!

Goldfish Swim School is seeking FUN, PATIENT, and ENERGETIC individuals to teach in our Golden Learners Program, designed specifically for children with special needs, including but not limited to autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, sensory processing disorders, ADHD, and other developmental or physical differences.

This role requires prior experience working with children with special needs. We provide swim-specific training, curriculum instruction, and ongoing support.

Our mission is to help every child become a confident, life‑long swimmer in a safe, supportive, and engaging environment — and we would love for you to be part of that journey.

Position Overview

Special Needs Swim Instructors teach students ranging in age from 4 months to 12 years in a 90‑degree, indoor pool, providing individualized instruction tailored to each child’s physical, cognitive, emotional, and sensory needs.

Looking to fill positions ASAP — hiring process can take less than one week!

What We Offer

• Paid, specialized training in adaptive swim instruction
• Weekly pay
• Consistent, set schedules
• Part‑time and full‑time opportunities
• Career growth opportunities
• Inclusive, mission‑driven work environment
• Positive and supportive team culture

Key Responsibilities

• Provide swim instruction using the Goldfish Swim School curriculum, adapting lessons to meet individual needs
• Work one‑on‑one or in small groups with children with special needs
• Use patience, empathy, and structure to support sensory, behavioral, and physical differences
• Maintain a safe, calm, and encouraging learning environment
• Ensure student safety at all times
• Track and document student progress
• Communicate effectively with parents/guardians regarding goals and progress
• Use problem‑solving and flexibility to address challenges during lessons
• Inspect pool areas before and after classes and report concerns
• Maintain and properly store pool equipment
• Perform light cleaning duties as needed
• Attend required trainings and in‑service meetings
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

• Previous experience working with children with special needs (professional or structured volunteer experience required)
• Experience may include work with children with autism, Down syndrome, sensory processing disorders, ADHD, or similar developmental or physical differences
• Ability to remain calm, patient, and attentive in dynamic environments
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to follow safety procedures and lesson plans
• Reliable transportation and consistent availability

Preferred Experience

• Swim instruction, aquatic therapy, or adaptive sports experience
• Background in special education, ABA therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, childcare, or behavioral support
• CPR, First Aid, or lifeguard certification (or willingness to obtain)

Core Skills & Attributes

• Compassion and empathy
• High emotional intelligence
• Flexibility and adaptability
• Strong observational skills
• Team‑oriented mindset
• High energy with strong attention to detail