Swim Lesson Instructor

rockriverymca; Rockford (IL); On-site; USD 17,000 - 24,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Free training available

Job summary

The YMCA is seeking a Swim Lesson Instructor to lead classes, teach with YMCA curricula, and promote safety, caring, honesty, respect, responsibility and faith in every lesson.

You'll rotate between Northeast Family YMCA and UW Health Riverfront YMCA locations, deliver engaging aquatic instruction, track progress, maintain equipment, and support events while upholding service standards and DEI principles.

Qualifications

• Minimum age 16 years old.
• Certifications required within 90 days: BLS, First Aid, Emergency Use of Medical Oxygen, YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor V6.
• Must demonstrate swim instructor skills per YMCA standards.
• Praesidium Academy trainings.
• Complete I Hear You: CARE e-learning within 60 days of hire.
• Knowledge of diverse populations preferred.
• Proven ability to build authentic relationships.

Responsibilities

• Teach swim lessons using YMCA curriculum and lesson plans.
• Create a positive, encouraging environment for learners of all levels.
• Serve as a YMCA role model upholding core values.
• Build strong relationships with students and families; encourage ongoing participation.
• Share information about aquatics programs and schedules.

Skills

Swim lesson delivery

Safety awareness

Youth engagement

Relationship building

Diversity & inclusion

Job description

YOUR IMPACT

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. At the Y, participants learn swimming skills and feel a sense of achievement from mastering something new that they can enjoy the rest of their lives. The Swim Instructor provides direct leadership, instruction and motivation for students in swimming classes. In accordance with YMCA policies and procedures, Swim Lesson Instructors will ensure safe and quality program operations that promotes the five core values of the YMCA: caring, honesty, respect, responsibility and faith as well as upholds our service standards of welcoming, connecting, supporting, and inviting. Regardless of primary assignment, this position is expected to rotate between all YMCA pool and satellite locations.

WHAT YOUR DAY MAY LOOK LIKE

No two days are the same in this role — but every day centers on helping swimmers build confidence, develop life-saving skills, and enjoy a safe, supportive, and fun aquatic experience.

• Teach swim lessons using YMCA curriculum, lesson plans, and instructional tools
• Create a positive, encouraging environment where swimmers of all levels can learn and grow
• Serve as a YMCA role model by demonstrating core values and service standards
• Build strong relationships with students and families while encouraging continued participation
• Share information about aquatics programs, schedules, and YMCA opportunities
• Track attendance, swimmer progress, and achievement records accurately
• Maintain safety at all times by following pool rules, policies, and emergency procedures
• Respond to incidents or emergencies and support lifeguards as needed
• Set up, organize, and store class equipment before and after lessons
• Train and guide class aides as assigned
• Support special events and family engagement activities when scheduled
• Meet attendance, punctuality, and professionalism expectations
• Promote character development and diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout programming
• Report damaged equipment or safety concerns promptly

If you enjoy teaching, love working with children and families, and want to make a lasting impact through swim safety and confidence-building — this role is for you.

SCHEDULE & COMPENSATION: 10 Positions

Positions 1 & 2: Northeast Family YMCA

Part-Time, Non-Exempt
Saturday 8:45 - 11:45 am
Possible Sub options on Tuesday or Thursday as needed
Additional willingness to pick up private lessons as availability allows
$15.00 per hour

Positions 3, 4 & 5: UW Health Riverfront YMCA

Part-Time, Non-Exempt
Monday and Wednesday 4:15 - 7:00 pm
Saturday 8:15 - 11:55am
Possible Sub options on Tuesday or Thursday as needed
Additional willingness to pick up private lessons as availability allows
$15.00 per hour

Positions 6 - 10: UW Health Riverfront YMCA and Alpine Pool

Part-Time, Non-Exempt
Monday - Thursday 8:50 am - 12:35 pm and 5:45 - 8:15 pm
Additional willingness to pick up private lessons as availability allows
$15.00 per hour

QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum age of 16 years old required.
• Certifications required within 90 days of hire: Basic Life Support, Basic First Aid, Emergency Use of Medical Oxygen, and YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor V6.
• Must be able to demonstrate swim instructor skills in accordance with YMCA standards
• Praesidium Academy trainings.
• Within 60 days of hire, complete YMCA’s I Hear You: Service with CARE e-learning.
• Prefer knowledge of, and previous experience with, diverse populations.
• Proven track record of developing authentic and deepened relationships with others.

FREE TRAINING AVAILABLE!

If you do not currently meet the certification requirement, we are offering the following courses:

FULL SLI CLASS:

Upcoming Class Dates:
Day 1: 10/3 - 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
Day 2: 10/4 - 9:00 am - 6:00 pm

THERE'S SO MUCH MORE TO WORKING AT THE Y! Employment benefit information available HERE.

The Y is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We offer more than just a job, rather the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of those around you.

The Y: We're for Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility