Swim Instructor

ABOUT OUR Y 

Our Y is one of Southern California’s leading charitable organizations dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.  

Across the Foothills, our Y engages over 20 thousand individuals, regardless of age, income, or background. Every day we strive to nurture the potential of children and teens, improve the region’s health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors.  

  MISSION: 

The mission of the YMCA of the Foothills is to organize, develop, finance, and conduct programs for an association of persons of all ages that will, by putting Christian principles into practice, enrich the quality of their lives spiritually, mentally, physically and socially. 

POSITION SUMMARY: 

The SWIM INSTRUCTOR is responsible for carrying out variety of tactics and programs that are aligned with the Association’s strategic direction. The staff member will work effectively with program participants in meaningful and safe swim programs and activities that allow and provide for the best possible experience for youth focused on YMCA core values: honesty, respect, responsibility, and caring.  

HOURS/SHIFT: 

Part Time including evenings and weekends 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:  

• Instructs swimming lessons in accordance with YMCA guidelines, having prepared lesson plans accordingly. Maintains order in their swim lessons class and where possible foresees trouble and takes steps to prevent it. 
• Must stay in accordance with a 1:8 ratio  
• Maintains records as required (i.e.attendance, progress reports, etc.) and tracks progress of class participants using appropriate skill sheets. Informs supervisor of any changes/additions to rosters immediately. Submits rosters to supervisor at the conclusion of each session.  
• Organizes and puts away needed class equipment. Reports damaged equipment. 
• Work as a member of a team to design and implement swim related events and programs in alignment with the Associations strategic plan.  
• Follows YMCA policies and procedures, including those related to medical and disciplinary situations, child abuse prevention, emergencies, dress guidelines, and cleanliness standards. Completes incident and accident reports as necessary.    
• Responds immediately to all emergency situations using proper procedures/techniques. Performs a safe rescue for a participant in trouble and administers the necessary First Aid and completes reports. 
• Maintains tidiness of pool and deck area (including gutters) during shift- Checks for band-aids, tissues, hair, etc. on deck and in drains and filter baskets. Never leaves equipment on deck after classes. Equipment must always be stacked neatly to avoid any accidents. 
• Maintains positive relations and rapport with members, staff and volunteers at all times. Builds effective, authentic relationships with students and parents; helps them connect with each other and the YMCA. Encourages parent involvement and identifies potential volunteers. Communicates proper placement to parents regularly. 
• Supports other staff and volunteers through good communications skills. 
• Attends staff meetings and trainings as scheduled and required 
• Act as representative of the YMCA of the Foothills at all times. Conveys information on aquatics programs and schedules and as appropriate refers students and parents to other programs. 
• Other duties as assigned  

QUALIFICATIONS:  

• One (1) year previous experience in teaching swim lessons. Two (2) years for Lead Swim Instructors.  
• Minimum age 16 years old. 18 years old for Lead Swim Instructor.  
• CERTIFICATIONS:   

1. Lead Swim Instructor: Y Swim Lesson Instructor or must obtain within 90 days of position acceptance     

• Must be able to demonstrate swim instructor skills in accordance with YMCA standards. 
  • YMCA Aquatic Safety Assistant (YASA), ARC/ASHI  
  • CPRO or AHA BLS-C, First Aid, AED 
  • O2 
  • Blood Borne Pathogens,  
  • Fundamentals of Teaching YMCA Swim Lessons and two of the following: 
    • Parent/Child Instructor or 
    • Preschool Instructor or 
    • Youth/Adult Instructor      
• Must have clearance through fingerprinting, drug testing, criminal records and child abuse index check. 
• Must be able to model the core values; Caring, Respect, Responsibility, and Honesty.   

· Ability to follow and accept instruction, and relate well with peers.  

· Must have commitment to the mission and cause of the YMCA and uphold its values and ethics. 

· Ability to work effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions and perceptions