General Function:
Under the guidance of the Aquatic Director, the swim instructor’s primary responsibility is to keep swimmers safe while teaching proper stroke techniques and/or other class level appropriate swim skills. This position is also responsible for making classes fun and improving swimming skills of participants.
Know How:
Must exhibit leadership skills in an outgoing, friendly, assertive, and professional manner. Must possess the knowledge and skills necessary to lead a swim lesson. Prior experience is recommended, but not required. Incumbent must pass YMCA background checks and successfully complete and maintain CPR/AED and First Aid certifications or the ability to acquire them within 30 days of employment.
Job Segments:
- Report promptly for work in uniform at assigned time and ready to teach class. Uniform will consist of conservative one piece swimsuit or swim shorts, as applicable, and Y approved staff shirt.
- Upon arriving, instructor should be prepared for lessons and have planned activities for each lesson he/she is responsible for that day.
- At your first lesson with a group: introduce yourself to swimmer’s and their parents and establish your protocol for starting each class, role, get in water, etc.
- Be flexible but firm with your instructions. Your responsibility is swimmer safety and teaching these swimmers proper techniques.
- Have appropriate knowledge and experience with equipment used in lessons. Organize and put away needed class equipment when finished. Report damaged equipment to Aquatics Director and lifeguard on duty.
- Follow the YMCA teaching guidelines for each skill class and use the checklist of skills to advance swimmers to the next level.
- Follow all YMCA policies, rules, regulations, and procedures, including emergency and safety procedures. Complete incident and accident reports as necessary.
- Maintain records as required (i.e. attendance, progress reports, etc.).
Effect On End Results:
This position ensures the YMCA members, guests and participants are safe and learn techniques of swimming by following YMCA Swim Guidelines through great customer service delivery.
- Demonstrate a friendly environment for all individuals entering the facility.
- Display a professional and positive attitude.
- Communicate clearly with members and guests which in turn will result in high satisfaction ratings.
- Work with Aquatic team to ensure safety protocols are followed. Lift others up by helping them.
- Perform these functions and skills well to assist the YMCA in retaining members/participants
