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Aquatics Instructor Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

GLOW YMCA

Swim Instructor

Batavia, NY

Under the direction of the Aquatics Director or Coordinator, provide direct leadership, instruction and motivation for students in swimming classes. * Recommended Certifications: CPR for the ...

Glow YMCA

Swim Instructor

Batavia, NY · On-site

$16/hr

Under the direction of the Aquatics Director or Coordinator, provide direct leadership, instruction and motivation for students in swimming classes. * Recommended Certifications: CPR for the ...

Glow YMCA

Swim Lesson Instructor

Batavia, NY · On-site

$16/hr

Under the direction of the Aquatics Director or Coordinator, provide direct leadership, instruction and motivation for students in swimming classes. * Recommended Certifications: CPR for the ...

All JobsAquatics Instructor JobsAquatics Instructor Jobs in Rochester, NY

Aquatics Instructor information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$11

$19

$35

How much do aquatics instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for aquatics instructor in Rochester, NY is $19.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $20.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do swimming instructors get paid?

Swimming instructors typically earn an hourly wage that ranges from $10 to $30, depending on experience, location, and certification level. Many also receive additional pay for private lessons or specialized training, and some work part-time or seasonal schedules.

What are Aquatics Instructors?

Aquatics Instructors are professionals who teach swimming and water safety skills to individuals or groups, often at community pools, recreation centers, or schools. Their responsibilities include developing lesson plans, demonstrating swimming techniques, ensuring participant safety, and providing first aid if necessary. Aquatics Instructors may work with various age groups and skill levels, from beginners to advanced swimmers. They are typically certified in lifeguarding, CPR, and first aid, and play a crucial role in promoting water safety and confidence in aquatic environments.

How do I become a certified swim instructor?

To become a certified swim instructor, you typically need to complete a recognized lifeguard certification, such as CPR and first aid, and obtain a swim instructor certification from organizations like the American Red Cross or YMCA. These programs usually require passing a skills assessment and may include coursework on teaching techniques and water safety. Certification requirements can vary by region and employer, so checking specific agency standards is recommended.

What is the difference between Aquatics Instructor vs Lifeguard?

AspectAquatics InstructorLifeguard
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Water Safety Instructor (WSI)CPR, First Aid, Lifeguard Certification
Work EnvironmentTeaching swim lessons, group classes, aquatic programsMonitoring pool safety, rescuing swimmers, enforcing rules
Primary ResponsibilitiesTeaching swimming skills, water safety educationEnsuring pool safety, responding to emergencies

While both roles require CPR and First Aid certifications, an Aquatics Instructor focuses on teaching swimming and water safety skills, whereas a Lifeguard primarily monitors pool safety and rescues swimmers in distress. The roles often overlap in aquatic settings but serve different primary functions within the industry.

What qualifications do I need to be a swimming instructor?

To become a swimming instructor, you typically need lifeguard certification, such as CPR and first aid, and a recognized swimming instructor certification like the American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor (WSI) or equivalent. Strong swimming skills, good communication, and the ability to teach different age groups are also important qualifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aquatics Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aquatics Instructor, you need strong swimming proficiency, knowledge of water safety, and certifications such as CPR, First Aid, and lifeguard training. Familiarity with pool management systems and instructional tools like kickboards and rescue equipment is typically required. Outstanding communication, patience, and motivational skills help foster a supportive learning environment for students of all ages. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring participant safety, skill development, and positive experiences in aquatic programs.

Is being a swim instructor worth it?

Being a swim instructor offers the opportunity to teach water safety and swimming skills, often providing flexible hours and a physically active work environment. Compensation varies by location and experience, and certifications such as lifeguard training or CPR are typically required. The role can be rewarding for those interested in fitness, teaching, and community service.

What are some common challenges faced by Aquatics Instructors, and how can they be managed effectively?

Aquatics Instructors often encounter challenges such as managing diverse skill levels within a single class, maintaining student engagement, and ensuring safety at all times. Effective communication, adaptability in teaching methods, and strong observation skills are crucial for addressing these challenges. Additionally, proactively building rapport with students and collaborating closely with lifeguard staff and other instructors can help create a supportive and safe learning environment.
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Aquatics Instructor jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Aquatics Instructor job openings:
Aquatics Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aquatics Instructor job openings in Rochester, NY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,449 per year, or $19.4 per hour.
Swim Instructor

Swim Instructor

YMCA of Greater Rochester

Canandaigua, NY

$18.50/hr

Other

Posted 10 days ago

YMCA Of Greater Rochester rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

502nd of 716 rated non-profit organizations

Job description

Description

$18.50 per hour and a Free YMCA Membership


Under the guidance of the Aquatics Director, a Swim Instructor teaches swim lessons to members. Greets everyone by using names whenever possible; extends thanks whenever appropriate; makes relationship building the number one priority at all times. The position is responsible for ensuring that the mission, purpose, image and core values of the YMCA of Greater Rochester are conveyed.


RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Conduct swimming classes in accordance with the YMCA of the USA & YMCA of Greater Rochester Program Guidelines.
  • Supervise all children and adults entrusted to the care of the instructor.
  • Maintain the premises in a clean and sanitary condition.
  • Maintain accurate records on individual participants that will lead to accurate information on certificates.
  • Enforce all pool rules.
  • Promote the YMCA mission and demonstrate YMCA Character Development to all members.
  • Report in proper uniform (swim trunks for men and one piece bathing suits for women).
  • Be acquainted with other available facilities and activities.
  • Provide a lesson plan for any substitute.
  • Secure a substitute instructor when unable to fulfill assigned duties and notify supervisor of changes.
  • Attend all required meetings and trainings.
  • Maintain all certifications required by the YMCA of Greater Rochester.



Requirements


  • Must be at least 16 years of age.
  • Must hold current certifications in CPR-Pro & AED.
  • Must obtain First Aid and Oxygen Administration certification within 30 days.
  • Preferred current certification in YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor or Red Cross Water Safety Instructor OR 2 years minimum documented experience of teaching swim lessons.
  • Interest in working with and teaching swimming to diverse groups.
  • Must possess values consistent with the mission of the YMCA.
  • Must obtain YMCA Swim Lessons Instructor within 90 days of employment (or first class offered) or upon expiration of current WSI.


PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Hear noises and distress signals in the aquatic environment, including in the water and anywhere around the zone of responsibility. Candidates must understand that significant background noise exists in all indoor and outdoor aquatic environments. In addition, lifeguard candidates should have a minimum hearing threshold of no more than an average of a 25-decibel loss in both ears over a range of frequencies (500Hz, 1000Hz, 2000Hz, 788 and 3000Hz). Candidates who use hearing aids or other corrective devices for hearing should be able to perform all rescue skills and emergency procedures without interruptions to adjust, retrieve, or install or attach a hearing aid or corrective device.
  • Remain alert with no lapses of consciousness.
  • Meet strength and lifting requirements.
  • Observe all sections of an assigned zone or area of responsibility. Candidates who use corrective eyewear should be able to perform all rescue skills and emergency procedures without interruptions to adjust, clear, or retrieve corrective eyewear.
  • Must be able to stand for the duration of the shift
  • Must be able to bend and stoop
  • Must be able to stay in the pool for an extended period of time

The YMCA of Greater Rochester provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

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