Temporary Recreation Leader III- Water Safety Instructor

City of Alexandria, VA; Alexandria (VA); On-site; USD 20,664 - 30,307; Part time

Job summary

The City of Alexandria, VA is seeking a Temporary Recreation Leader III - Water Safety Instructor to plan and teach American Red Cross Learn to Swim classes for all ages. The role focuses on water safety, skill development, and inclusive instruction, with lessons held weekday evenings, weekend mornings, and during summer days at indoor or outdoor pools.

Candidates should have a High School Diploma, at least three years of related experience, and be prepared to obtain or already hold an American

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor certification.
• First Aid training.
• Minimum of 3 years of related experience in aquatics or instructional settings.
• Be at least 16 years of age and undergo background checks.

Responsibilities

• Plan and lead swimming lessons for all ages and abilities.
• Teach and reinforce water safety skills and awareness.
• Offer lessons on weekday evenings and weekend mornings year-round.

Skills

Water safety instruction

Teaching/lesson planning

Customer service

Communication

Education

High School Diploma

American Red Cross WSI certification

First Aid training

Job description

TEMPORARY RECREATION LEADER IIIWATER SAFETY INSTRUCTORRECREATION SERVICES

Position Overview

The Recreation Leader III-Water Safety Instructor provides American Red Cross Learn to Swim classes for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, children and adults. The leader provides water safety skills and awareness to our community residents. The City's aquatics program is extremely popular, especially with preschool age children.

A Message from the Director

Welcome to the City of Alexandria’s Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities. I am excited that you are considering joining our team. Every day, we have the privilege of serving a city that values connection, creativity, and community. Our parks, programs, and cultural spaces reflect Alexandria’s diversity and spirit, and our people are the heart of it all.

As you explore opportunities within RPCA, know that you are stepping into a department where teamwork, curiosity, and service guide everything we do. We take pride in our work, we find purpose in our impact, and we celebrate the difference each team member makes. Together, we are building something meaningful for the people of Alexandria, and I am grateful for your interest in being part of it.

Hashim T. Taylor, Director

Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities

The Opportunity

The Recreation Leader III-Water Safety Instructor plans and teaches a variety of swim lessons for all ages and abilities, coordinated by the Recreation Department, which occur on weekday evenings and weekend mornings year-round, and also during the day in the summer. Swim lessons are held at indoor and outdoor pools. The Recreation Leader III-Water Safety Instructor will perform related duties as required.

Your Impact

As a Water Safety Instructor, you will:

• Plan and lead engaging swim classes that enhance physical health, emotional well-being, and confidence in the water.
• Facilitate a welcoming environment that promotes safety, learning, inclusivity, and participation.
• Work collaboratively with City staff and utilize department resources for program success.

What You Should Bring

The ideal candidate will demonstrate a commitment to instructional excellence, demonstrate strong customer service skills, and be available for lesson assignments occurring on evenings and/or weekends.

Candidates with and without a valid Rec Cross Water Safety Instructor certifications are encouraged to apply. Paid training and certification are provided for successful job candidates who can demonstrate the Water Safety Instructor prerequisites:

• Swim the following strokes consistent with American Red Cross Level 4 stroke performance criteria:
  • Front crawl—25 yards
  • Back crawl—25 yards
  • Breaststroke—25 yards
  • Elementary backstroke—25 yards
  • Sidestroke—25 yards
  • Butterfly—15 yards
• Maintain position on back for 1 minute in deep water (floating or sculling)
• Tread water for 1 minute

About the Department

The Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities (RPCA) enriches the lives of Alexandria residents through diverse programming, well-maintained public spaces, and inclusive cultural activities. RPCA is nationally accredited by the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA), having met rigorous best-practice standards in the industry.

High School Diploma and three (3) years of related experience or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. First Aid training.

Additional Requirements: Be at least 16 years of age. Ability to demonstrate Water Safety Instructor prerequisites.

Valid American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor certification. Previous experience leading aquatic programs and water safety instruction. Excellent communication skills.

This position requires pre-employment background checks which include, but are not limited to, a criminal records check and drug screening.