Swim Lesson Instructor (Belvidere)

YMCA of Rock River Valley; Belvidere (IL); On-site; USD 17,000 - 24,000; Part time

Job summary

YMCA of Rock River Valley in Belvidere is hiring a Swim Instructor to lead lessons, promote water safety, and support youth development in a welcoming environment.

You will teach using YMCA curriculum, track progress, coordinate with families, and assist lifeguards. This part-time role offers meaningful impact in our community.

Ideal candidates are 16+, ready to complete required trainings, and committed to inclusion and high standards of safety.

Qualifications

• Minimum age 16.
• Certifications due within 90 days: BLS, First Aid, Emergency Use of Medical Oxygen, YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor V6.
• Able to demonstrate swim instructor skills per 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Skills

Swim instruction

Patience & empathy

Communication with families

Safety awareness

Team collaboration

Job description

Career Opportunities with YMCA of Rock River Valley

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: 4 Positions

Positions 1 & 2: Belvidere Family YMCA
Part-Time, Non-Exempt
Tuesday and Thursday 3:45 - 6:00 pm
Saturday 8:30 - 11:00 am
Additional willingness to pick up private lessons as availability allows
$15.00 per hour

Positions 3 & 4: Belvidere Family YMCA
Part-Time, Non-Exempt
Sub shifts - hours may vary
$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:

No upcoming classes currently scheduled.

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