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Safety Instructor Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Aquatics Instructor

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$17.50 - $23/hr

Job Summary We're seeking qualified applicants to teach life-saving skills as Swim Instructors and Health and Safety Instructors. We are currently hiring for the following location(s): * Ashburn ...

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Safety Instructor information

See Washington salary details

$13

$32

$64

How much do safety instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for safety instructor in Washington is $32.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.88 and $35.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Safety Instructor Do?

As a safety instructor, you teach people how to comply with OSHA workplace standards. As part of your responsibilities and duties, you may review potential threats in a given area, help create countermeasures to minimize potential risks, and assess the training needs of employees. You often attend meetings, must keep up with changing safety laws, evaluate employee compliance, and otherwise help make each work area as safe as possible. Many details of this job vary based on the work environment. For example, medical laboratories often have very different safety needs than construction sites, so it’s essential to adapt your techniques with each employer.

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

To thrive as a Safety Instructor, you need thorough knowledge of safety regulations, risk assessment, and instructional design, often supported by certifications such as OSHA or First Aid/CPR instructor credentials. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS), presentation software, and safety equipment is commonly required. Strong communication, public speaking, and the ability to engage diverse learners are vital soft skills that distinguish effective instructors. These skills and qualifications ensure safety instructors can deliver impactful training, promote compliance, and create safer work environments.

What is the difference between Safety Instructor vs Lifeguard?

AspectSafety InstructorLifeguard
Required CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Safety Instructor CertificationCPR, First Aid, Lifeguard Certification
Work EnvironmentSchools, training centers, corporate safety programsPools, beaches, water parks
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, safety training providersPublic pools, beaches, aquatic facilities

Safety Instructors and Lifeguards both require CPR and First Aid certifications, but Safety Instructors focus on teaching safety protocols in various settings, while Lifeguards primarily monitor water areas to prevent and respond to emergencies. Their work environments and employer types overlap somewhat, but their roles differ in scope and focus.

What are some common challenges Safety Instructors face when training diverse groups, and how can they effectively address them?

Safety Instructors often work with trainees from various backgrounds, experience levels, and learning styles, which can make it challenging to ensure everyone understands and retains critical safety information. To address this, instructors should use a mix of teaching methods—such as demonstrations, hands-on activities, and visual aids—to cater to different learning preferences. Creating an inclusive environment, encouraging questions, and checking for understanding through practical assessments help ensure all participants are engaged and competent. Regularly updating training materials to reflect current regulations and industry best practices is also essential.

What are Safety Instructors?

Safety Instructors are professionals who educate individuals or groups on safety protocols, procedures, and regulations in various environments such as workplaces, schools, or industrial settings. They design and deliver training sessions on topics like emergency response, equipment use, and hazard prevention. Safety Instructors ensure that trainees understand and can apply safety standards to minimize risks and prevent accidents. Their role is crucial in fostering a culture of safety and compliance within organizations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Safety Instructor jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Safety Instructor jobs in Washington are:
What job categories do people searching Safety Instructor jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Safety Instructor jobs in Washington are:
Infographic showing various Safety Instructor job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,778 per year, or $32.1 per hour.

Temporary Recreation Leader III- Water Safety Instructor

City of Alexandria

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$29.24/hr

Temporary

Posted 11 days ago


City Of Alexandria (Louisiana) rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

447th of 841 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

TEMPORARY RECREATION LEADER III WATER SAFETY INSTRUCTOR RECREATION SERVICES Position Overview The Recreation Leader III-Water Safety Instructor provides American Red Cross Learn to Swim classes for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, children and adults. The leader provides water safety skills and awareness to our community residents. The City's aquatics program is extremely popular, especially with preschool age children.

A Message from the Director Welcome to the City of Alexandria's Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities. I am excited that you are considering joining our team. Every day, we have the privilege of serving a city that values connection, creativity, and community.

Our parks, programs, and cultural spaces reflect Alexandria's diversity and spirit, and our people are the heart of it all. As you explore opportunities within RPCA, know that you are stepping into a department where teamwork, curiosity, and service guide everything we do. We take pride in our work, we find purpose in our impact, and we celebrate the difference each team member makes.

Together, we are building something meaningful for the people of Alexandria, and I am grateful for your interest in being part of it. Hashim T. Taylor, Director Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities The Opportunity The Recreation Leader III-Water Safety Instructor plans and teaches a variety of swim lessons for all ages and abilities, coordinated by the Recreation Department, which occur on weekday evenings and weekend mornings year-round, and also during the day in the summer.

Swim lessons are held at indoor and outdoor pools. The Recreation Leader III-Water Safety Instructor will perform related duties as required. Your Impact As a Water Safety Instructor, you will: Plan and lead engaging swim classes that enhance physical health, emotional well-being, and confidence in the water.

Facilitate a welcoming environment that promotes safety, learning, inclusivity, and participation. Work collaboratively with City staff and utilize department resources for program success. What You Should Bring The ideal candidate will demonstrate a commitment to instructional excellence, demonstrate strong customer service skills, and be available for lesson assignments occurring on evenings and/or weekends.

Candidates with and without a valid Rec Cross Water Safety Instructor certifications are encouraged to apply. Paid training and certification are provided for successful job candidates who can demonstrate the Water Safety Instructor prerequisites: Swim the following strokes consistent with American Red Cross Level 4 stroke performance criteria: Front crawl-25 yards Back crawl-25 yards Breaststroke-25 yards Elementary backstroke-25 yards Sidestroke-25 yards Butterfly-15 yards Maintain position on back for 1 minute in deep water (floating or sculling) Tread water for 1 minute About the Department The Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities (RPCA) enriches the lives of Alexandria residents through diverse programming, well-maintained public spaces, and inclusive cultural activities. RPCA is nationally accredited by the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA), having met rigorous best-practice standards in the industry.

Minimum & Additional Requirements High School Diploma and three (3) years of related experience or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. First Aid training. Additional Requirements: Be at least 16 years of age.

Ability to demonstrate Water Safety Instructor prerequisites. Preferred Qualifications Valid American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor certification. Previous experience leading aquatic programs and water safety instruction.

Excellent communication skills. Notes This position requires pre-employment background checks which include, but are not limited to, a criminal records check and drug screening. The City of Alexandria is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in its workforce.

All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, genetic information, military status, or disability.


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