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Playground Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Swim Instructor will help to create a welcoming environment for members and youth while ... Yorba Linda High School, Yorba Linda Adventure Playground, or Heritage Oaks Private School. Work ...

Swim Instructor

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$20 - $29/hr

Swim instructors will use their swimming knowledge, along with the knowledge given to them during ... Our facility includes a fitness room, playground, classrooms, tennis courts, a seasonal wading pool ...

Instructor Aide

Rialto, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $20.68/hr

... Instructor, implements and directs a wide variety of cultural and recreational activities for ... playground and day care facility equipment; cares for recreation equipment or supervises a ...

Title: Swim Lesson Instructor Status: Regular Part-Time or Supplemental Hourly Rate: $15.00 ... playground, and access to Sahms Community Caf. It also has a paid membership model that allows ...

Title: Swim Lesson Instructor Status: Regular Part-Time or Supplemental Hourly Rate: $15.00 ... playground, and access to Sahm's Community Café. It also has a paid membership model that allows ...

TK & Kindergarten Lead Instructor

Castro Valley, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

... playground games and outdoor activities, or enjoying social engagement opportunities. Our ... In a structured and supportive environment, Instructors will facilitate enrichment, recreation ...

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Playground Instructor information

See salary details

$9

$21

$36

How much do playground instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for playground instructor in the United States is $21.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Playground Instructor, you need a background in child development, basic first aid certification, and experience supervising groups of children. Familiarity with safety protocols, playground equipment, and incident reporting systems is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and conflict resolution skills help build trust and effectively manage children’s interactions. These qualifications are vital to ensuring a safe, engaging, and positive environment for children’s play and social development.

How does a Playground Instructor typically collaborate with teachers and other staff to ensure a safe and engaging environment for children?

Playground Instructors regularly communicate with teachers and administrative staff to coordinate schedules, share information about students, and address any behavioral or safety concerns. They may attend staff meetings to discuss playground rules, review incident reports, and suggest improvements to playground activities. Collaboration also involves working with other instructors to plan engaging games that promote inclusion, teamwork, and physical activity, while ensuring all safety protocols are followed. Such teamwork helps create a positive, supportive atmosphere for children during recess and playtime.

What are playground instructors?

Playground instructors are professionals responsible for supervising and guiding children during recreational activities at playgrounds or parks. They ensure the safety and well-being of all participants, organize games and activities, and promote positive social interactions among the children. Playground instructors may also provide first aid, enforce rules, and help maintain equipment. Their role is essential in creating a fun, inclusive, and safe play environment for kids.

What is the difference between Playground Instructor vs Camp Counselor?

AspectPlayground InstructorCamp Counselor
Required CertificationsCPR/First Aid, Child Care CertificationsCPR/First Aid, Child Care Certifications
Work EnvironmentSchoolyards, parks, recreational facilitiesSummer camps, outdoor or indoor camp settings
Employer & IndustrySchools, community centers, parksSummer camps, youth programs
Primary ResponsibilitiesSupervising children during outdoor play, ensuring safetyOrganizing activities, supervising children, ensuring safety

Playground Instructors and Camp Counselors both work with children and require similar certifications. However, Playground Instructors typically work in school or park settings focusing on supervising outdoor play, while Camp Counselors work in summer camp environments organizing activities and supervising children over longer periods. Both roles emphasize safety and child engagement but differ mainly in setting and scope of responsibilities.

More about Playground Instructor jobs

$16.90 - $20.45/hr

Temporary

Medical, Retirement

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

The YMCA of Orange County is a leading non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. We are actively seeking highly engaged, intentional, and service-oriented individuals for a part-time Swim Instructor position.
This role is a profound opportunity to directly impact the lives of the communities we serve by fostering genuine connections, practicing exceptional hospitality, and creating a safe, positive, and enriching environment where every interaction is meaningful. The Swim Instructor will help to create a welcoming environment for members and youth while promoting programs that encourage water safety, skill development, and overall health and wellness within our community.
**Hiring Now for April**
Location: Yorba Linda. During the Spring and Summer season, you may be scheduled to work at one or more of the following three sites: Yorba Linda High School, Yorba Linda Adventure Playground, or Heritage Oaks Private School.
Work Schedule: This is a seasonal position that runs from late March through August.
  • Spring Shift Schedule:
    • Monday - Thursday 4:00pm - 8:00pm
  • Summer Shift Schedule:
    • Monday - Thursday 11:00am - 3:30pm

Purpose and Impact:
  • Be a Mentor:
    • Guide participants in building confidence and resilience while teaching skills that support success in and out of the water.
  • Prioritize Safety and Support:
    • Maintain clear safety standards and provide guidance that helps participants feel secure and confident in the water.
  • Foster Community Connections:
    • Encourage interaction and inclusivity, creating a welcoming space where participants and families feel connected.
  • Inspire Confidence and Growth:
    • Celebrate progress and set achievable goals to help participants build resilience, self-esteem, and a sense of accomplishment.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Minimum Age: 16 with a valid work permit.
  • Education & Experience:
    • Prior swim experience required.
    • Experience teaching swim is preferred, on the job training will be provided.
    • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Certifications:
    • YMCA, Red Cross or other nationally recognized Swim Instructor or Water Safety Instructor certification preferred.
    • Must obtain YMCA Fundamentals of Swim certification within 1 year of employment.
    • First Aid and CPR certifications required (training provided and paid for by the YMCA).

Benefits & Perks: Invested in You
  • FREE YMCA Membership, Classes, and Pool Access.
  • FREE Training & Certifications.
  • FREE Virtual Health Care Solutions (Teledoc).
  • Program Discounts.
  • Paid Sick Time.
  • Retirement Fund When Eligible.

Learn more about the YMCA and opportunities at: www.ymcaoc.org/careers
Once a conditional offer is made, candidates will be subject to criminal background check, drug screen, and will be asked to provide criminal history. Criminal history will be analyzed on a case by case basis as it related to the position. YMCA of Orange County participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.