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Recreation Instructor Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

YMCA of Greater Rochester

Head Lifeguard

Penfield, NY

$18.75/hr

Must have YMCA Lifeguarding Instructor Certification or obtain it within 60 days of employment or have WSI and obtain YMCA certification within 60 days. Must possess good communication skills to ...

YMCA of Greater Rochester

Head Lifeguard

Canandaigua, NY · On-site

$18.75/hr

Must have YMCA Lifeguarding Instructor Certification or obtain it within 60 days of employment or have WSI and obtain YMCA certification within 60 days. Must possess good communication skills to ...

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Recreation Instructor information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$13

$23

$35

How much do recreation instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreation instructor in Rochester, NY is $23.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $31.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a recreation instructor?

Recreation instructors are professionals who plan, organize, and lead recreational activities for groups or individuals in settings such as community centers, camps, fitness facilities, or parks. They may specialize in areas like sports, arts and crafts, fitness, or outdoor adventure activities. Their role is to ensure activities are safe, enjoyable, and tailored to the interests and abilities of participants. Recreation instructors also motivate and guide participants, promote teamwork, and help foster a positive and inclusive environment.

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

To thrive as a Recreation Instructor, you need a solid background in physical education, recreation programming, and activity leadership, often supported by a related degree or certification in CPR/first aid. Familiarity with scheduling software, fitness equipment, and safety protocols is commonly required. Strong communication, enthusiasm, and the ability to motivate and engage participants are standout soft skills. These competencies ensure safe, enjoyable, and effective programming that promotes both individual development and group participation.

What are the most common challenges recreation instructors face when managing group activities?

Recreation Instructors often encounter challenges such as accommodating participants with varying skill levels, maintaining engagement across diverse age groups, and ensuring safety during activities. Balancing individual attention while keeping the group motivated can require strong communication and adaptability. Additionally, instructors must be prepared to modify activities on the fly and quickly resolve any conflicts or disruptions that arise to ensure a positive experience for everyone.

What is the difference between Recreation Instructor vs Lifeguard?

AspectRecreation InstructorLifeguard
Required CertificationsCPR, First Aid, activity-specific certificationsCPR, First Aid, Lifeguard Certification
Work EnvironmentCommunity centers, parks, schools, recreational facilitiesSwimming pools, beaches, aquatic centers
Employer & IndustryMunicipal parks, recreation departments, private clubsPublic pools, private aquatic facilities, beaches

Recreation Instructors and Lifeguards often share certifications like CPR and First Aid and work in recreational or aquatic environments. However, Recreation Instructors focus on leading activities and programs, while Lifeguards primarily ensure safety and respond to emergencies in aquatic settings.

Recreation Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recreation Instructor job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,801 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Head Lifeguard

Penfield, NY

YMCA of Greater Rochester
Fitness and Sports Centers • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about YMCA of Greater Rochesterexternal

$18.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 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

Job description

Description

$18.75 per hour and a Free Family YMCA Membership

Flexible shifts available


Under the direction of the Aquatic Staff Associate, the Head Lifeguard will uphold the rules and the guidelines of the pool to ensure the safest environment for all members. The Head Lifeguard is also responsible to open the pool and life guard as required. The position is responsible for demonstrating YMCA leadership competencies to ensure the mission, purpose, image and core values of the YMCA of Greater Rochester is conveyed.



SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Ensure pool is open each day on time and functioning properly
  • Ensure the safety of every individual at the YMCA, both in and around pool area.
  • Enforce all aquatic regulations including those pertaining to food and drink, and conduct.
  • Check pool and/or spa chemicals and address any issues with the pool and/or spa that require maintenance.
  • Ensure that the pool area is clean, tidy and in sanitary condition.
  • Assist with scheduling staff to cover shifts as needed to ensure safety ratios are met. The head guard is expected to fill in when there is a staff shortage.
  • Mentor and provide leadership to all lifeguards on staff.
  • Maintain accurate records as required by the NYS Health Department Sanitary Code.
  • Learn and review all emergency procedures and implement when required.
  • Assist in maintaining medical supplies as needed.
  • Responsible for program operation, quality and safety of pool area as assigned.
  • Ensure the safety of every individual at the YMCA, both in and around pool area by maintaining compliance with the YMCA of Greater Rochester Aquatic Safety Policies and Guidelines and NYS Health Department.
  • Maintain all required certifications.
  • Attend all required meetings, branch events, in-service, and trainings.
  • All other duties as assigned by the supervisor.


Requirements



Must be at least 18 years old and a high school graduate.

Must have at least one-year lifeguarding experience

Must have current YMCA or Red Cross Lifeguarding, CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer, First Aid Certification, and O2 Administration.

Must have YMCA Lifeguarding Instructor Certification or obtain it within 60 days of employment or have WSI and obtain YMCA certification within 60 days.

Must possess good communication skills to deliver excellent member service.

In addition to the above requirements, it is expected that the Head Lifeguard will bring to his/her position maturity, responsibility, positive values, and a sincere interest in working with people.



PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Must be able to stand for extended duration of shift.

Must be able to bend and stoop frequently.

Must be able to lift at least 50 pounds.

Must be able to stay in the pool for an extended period of time.

Must be able to communicate verbally, including projecting the voice across distances, and communicate swiftly and effectively with emergency personnel in person and over the telephone.

Must be able to hear noises and distress signals in an aquatic environment, including in water, understanding that significant background noise exists in aquatic environments.


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