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's Belvidere Family YMCA is seeking a part-time Swim Instructor to teach age-appropriate classes and promote water safety. You will deliver YMCA curriculum, support families, and model the Y core values in every lesson.

Ideal candidates are at least 16, eager to learn, and prepared to complete required trainings within 90 days. You’ll join a supportive team with flexible evening hours and opportunities to grow through additional aquatics programs.

Qualifications

• Must be 16 years or older.
• Certifications required within 90 days of hire: BLS/First Aid, Emergency Use of Medical Oxygen, YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor V6.
• Ability to demonstrate Swim Instructor skills per YMCA standards.
• Praesidium Academy trainings completed.
• Within 60 days of hire, complete YMCA's I Hear You: Service with CARE e-learning.
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion experience or interest preferred.
• Proven ability to build authentic relationships with others.

Responsibilities

• Teach swim lessons using YMCA curriculum and lesson plans.
• Create a positive, encouraging environment for swimmers of all levels.
• Model YMCA core values and service standards.
• Build strong relationships with students and families to encourage continued participation.
• Share information about aquatic programs and schedules.
• Track attendance and progress accurately.
• Maintain safety by following pool rules and procedures.
• Respond to incidents and support lifeguards as needed.

Skills

Swim instruction

Student engagement

Safety awareness

Relationship building

Tools

First Aid Certification

CPR/AED

YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor V6

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: 4 Positions

$15.00 per hour
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

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

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