Swim Lesson Instructor

YMCA of Rock River Valley; Rockford (IL); On-site; USD 18,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

YMCA of Rock River Valley is seeking Swim Instructors to teach according to YMCA curricula, fostering safe, fun aquatic learning. You may rotate across pool sites, building swimmers' confidence and life-saving skills while embodying the YMCA values.

This part-time role offers eight positions at different sites in the Rockford, IL area, paying $15.00 per hour with a $300 sign-on bonus after 90 days of service, contingent on good standing and trainings completion.

Qualifications

• Minimum age 16 years old.
• Certifications required within 90 days of hire: BLS, First Aid, Oxygen, YMCA SL Instructor V6.
• Demonstrate swim instructor skills per YMCA standards.
• Complete Praesidium Academy trainings.
• Within 60 days of hire, complete CARE e-learning.
• Preference for experience with diverse populations.
• Proven ability to build authentic relationships.

Responsibilities

• Teach swim lessons using YMCA curriculum and lesson plans.
• Create a positive environment for swimmers of all levels.
• Model core YMCA values and service standards.
• Build relationships with students and families and encourage ongoing participation.
• Share information about programs and schedules.
• Track attendance, progress and achievement records.
• Maintain pool safety and assist lifeguards as needed.
• Set up and store class equipment; train class aides.
• Support events and family engagement activities.

Skills

Swim instruction skills

Teaching children

Safety awareness

Education

Basic Life Support (BLS)

Basic First Aid

Emergency Use of Medical Oxygen

YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor V6

Praesidium Academy trainings

Job description

NEW HIRE SIGN-ON BONUS - $300

New Swim Instructor employees are eligible to receive a $300 sign-on bonus, subject to the following requirements:

• All new hires in this position are eligible, regardless of whether they were referred by a current team member.
• The bonus will be awarded after the employee completes 90 days of service.
• At the time the bonus is awarded, the employee must remain in good standing, defined as:
  • Actively employed by the YMCA.
  • Having received fewer than two documented progressive discipline conversations.
  • Having completed all required trainings and other staff requirements, with everything up to date.

Effective Dates:

This incentive is available for eligible candidates applying between October 19, 2026, and December 19, 2026. The program is authorized for a 90-day period and will end December 19, 2026.

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: 8 Positions

$15.00 per hour

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

Positions 3 & 4: UW Health Riverfront YMCA

Part-Time, Non-Exempt
Monday and Wednesday 4:15 - 7:15 pm
Additional willingness to pick up private lessons as availability allows

Positions 5 - 8: UW Health Riverfront YMCA

Part-Time, Non-Exempt
Saturday 8:15 - 11:55 am
Additional willingness to pick up private lessons as availability allows

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:

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