Swim Instructor

YMCA Buffalo Niagara; Buffalo (NY); On-site; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

YMCA Buffalo Niagara seeks a part-time Swim Instructor to teach lessons to participants of all ages, fostering skill development and a love of swimming while upholding YMCA standards.

Responsibilities include delivering engaging lessons, ensuring safety, documenting progress, and maintaining equipment. Requires strong communication and the ability to work mornings, afternoons, and some weekends in Buffalo, NY.

Qualifications

• Minimum age 16 years old.
• Proficient swimming ability per YMCA standards.
• Certifications in CPR/AED and First Aid preferred; lifeguard or swim instructor certifications preferred.
• Strong communication and positive engagement with participants.

Responsibilities

• Conduct engaging and safe swim lessons following the YMCA program.
• Adapt teaching methods to participant needs and skill levels.
• Maintain safety procedures and respond to emergencies.
• Track attendance and skill progression and share updates with guardians.
• Maintain clean, organized instructional spaces and equipment.

Skills

Strong communication

Interpersonal skills

Safety leadership

Adaptability

Education

CPR/AED and First Aid certifications

Lifeguard or swim instructor certification

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY

The Swim Instructor is responsible for teaching YMCA swim lessons to participants of all ages and skill levels. This role ensures a safe, enjoyable, and positive learning environment in accordance with YMCA standards and procedures, fostering skill development, confidence, and a love for swimming.

GENERAL WORK SCHEDULE:

Morning, afternoon and evening positions are available. 12 to 25 hours per week. Availability to work weekends is required.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Swim Instruction:
   • Conduct engaging, effective, and safe swim lessons following the YMCA swim lesson program.
   • Adapt teaching methods to meet participant needs and skill levels.
2. Safety and Emergency Response:
   • Know and review all emergency procedures and promptly respond to emergencies.
   • Provide first aid and assistance to swimmers when necessary.
3. Program Documentation:
   • Track participant attendance and skill achievements.
   • Complete and distribute skill progression and completion forms to participants or guardians.
4. Equipment Management:
   • Ensure proper usage, maintenance, and storage of instructional equipment.
5. Member Engagement:
   • Maintain a welcoming and responsive demeanor with participants, parents, and colleagues.
   • Provide feedback and guidance to swimmers and parents to support skill development.
6. Safety and Cleanliness:
   • Understand and enforce all pool safety rules and policies consistently.
   • Clean and disinfect commonly used surfaces following department protocols.
   • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
7. Professional Development:
   • Attend staff training sessions to enhance skills and knowledge of program standards.

Demonstrate proficiency in swim instruction and safety protocols.

1. Additional Responsibilities:
   • Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

1. Minimum Age: Must be at least 16 years old.
2. Swimming Skills: Proficient swimming ability that aligns with YMCA program standards.
3. Certifications:
   • Certifications in CPR/AED and First Aid are preferred. Certifications from American Red Cross, HSI, or American Heart Association are acceptable.
   • Lifeguard certification or swim instructor certification is preferred.
4. Interpersonal Skills: Strong communication skills with the ability to engage effectively with participants of all age groups.
5. Safety and Leadership: Demonstrates the ability to enforce safety rules and guidelines while maintaining a positive and supportive environment.