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Survival Instructor Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

... patient survival and recovery. * Bridge the gap in care by delivering precise, real-time patient ... Instructor specializing in Pediatric Adv Life Support preferred. American Heart Association or ...

For over 40 years, our trained instructors have nurtured happy, confident kids through parent/child classes, gymnastics, dance and sports prep, plus enjoyable extras like camps, Parents' Survival ...

For over 40 years, our trained instructors have nurtured happy, confident kids through parent/child classes, gymnastics, dance and sports prep, plus enjoyable extras like camps, Parents' Survival ...

Survival Instructor information

See Indiana salary details

$11

$17

$24

How much do survival instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for survival instructor in Indiana is $17.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $19.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a survival instructor?

To thrive as a Survival Instructor, you need a deep understanding of wilderness survival techniques, first aid, navigation, and outdoor safety, often backed by certifications such as Wilderness First Responder or Instructor credentials from recognized survival organizations. Familiarity with GPS devices, compasses, map-reading tools, and emergency communication systems is important for effective instruction and safety management. Exceptional communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help instructors engage diverse groups and adapt to challenging situations. These capabilities are crucial for ensuring the safety, learning, and confidence of clients in demanding and unpredictable environments.

How do you become a survival instructor?

To become a survival instructor, individuals typically need relevant outdoor experience, knowledge of survival skills, and certifications such as Wilderness First Aid or Survival Instructor certifications. Gaining experience through outdoor activities, completing training programs, and demonstrating teaching ability are essential steps in qualifying for this role.

What does a survival instructor do?

A Survival Instructor teaches individuals or groups essential survival skills for outdoor or emergency situations. This includes skills like fire-making, shelter-building, navigation, foraging, and first aid. They may work in various settings, such as wilderness schools, military training, or private courses. Their goal is to prepare people to survive in harsh or unexpected conditions with minimal resources.

What are the typical challenges survival instructors face while leading courses in the field?

Survival Instructors commonly face challenges such as unpredictable weather, varying terrain, and ensuring the safety of participants with different experience levels. Leading groups in remote settings requires staying vigilant about risk management while still providing an engaging and educational experience. Instructors must also be able to quickly adapt lesson plans to real-time changes and effectively resolve group dynamics issues. Overcoming these challenges is a key part of the role, making flexibility and decision-making critical skills for success.

What are popular job titles related to Survival Instructor jobs in Indiana? For Survival Instructor jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Survival Instructor jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Survival Instructor jobs in Indiana are:
Infographic showing various Survival Instructor job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,964 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Benjamin Harrison Aquatics Group X Program Instructor

YMCA OF GREATER INDIANAPOLIS

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

Part-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


YMCA Of Greater Indianapolis rating

3.9

Company rating: 3.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

749th of 767 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

Benefits Include:

  • Free YMCA of Greater Indianapolis Membership
  • 20 Hours Per Week of Free Child Care
  • Flexible Hours/ Scheduling
  • Retirement
  • Discounted Program Fees
  • Professional Development
GENERAL FUNCTION

Under the direction of the Program Coordinator, the Instructor I will provide safe and challenging classes according the YMCA and safety guidelines.

KNOW HOW
  • Minimum of 16 years of age.
  • Experience leading group exercise is preferred.
  • Has the ability to swim as determined by passing a swim test. (Test consists of being able to complete the strokes in which you will be instructing, able to tread water for at least 2 minutes, etc.)
  • Demonstrates emotional maturity and judgment.
  • Must possess or obtain HCP within 90 days of employment, First Aid, Lifeguard or Aquatic Safety Assistant certification within 90 days of employment.
  • Current Swim Lesson Certification (YMCA or American Red Cross) or Water Exercise Certifications (YMCA, Arthritis Foundation, etc.)
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Provide safe and challenging classes by adhering to all safety guidelines (OSHA, American Heart Association, YMCA of the USA Basic Swim Lesson Program).
  • Assist with the training of new instructors by guiding, shadowing and demonstrating the YMCA Basic Swim Lesson Program.
  • Know and follow emergency procedures according to established guidelines mentioned above, as well as those specific to each program, including those applicable to aquatic health codes.
  • Aid in developing participants to their fullest potential and providing exceptional service.
  • Attend staff meetings and in-service trainings.
  • Complete all necessary paperwork and record keeping (i.e. accident reports, skill sheets, and progress reports.)
  • Prepare lesson plan for each class (using skill sheets and instruction manual as guidelines) and get all equipment set up BEFORE class time begins and put away after class ends (return materials and store neatly).
  • Spend adequate time in the water in order to provide effective class instruction.
  • Maintain a professional appearance and attitude (refer to dress code for Aquatic staff).
  • Maintain a cooperative attitude when sharing site space, including maintaining an appropriate voice level and using space according to class needs and site provisions.
  • Provide appropriate attention to class and participants and refrain from socializing with other personnel during class time.
  • Assist in leading new or inexperienced staff in teaching by allowing them to follow your class structure and advising them on best practices.
  • Report any problems or concerns to or Program Coordinator.
  • Keep certifications and swimming skills current.
  • Take complete responsibility for scheduled hours and if necessary, follow the appropriate substitution procedures.  Failure to adhere to this policy will result in disciplinary action.
PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Ability to perform all skills listed in Basic Swim Lesson Instructor program.
  • Ability to project voice so participants can hear skill instructions.
  • Ability to hear noises and distress signals in an aquatic environment with background noise/distractions.
  • Ability to work under specific instructions, work alone and under stressful conditions.
  • Ability to direct and control the activities of others.
  • Physically and mentally able to observe and promote safety procedures and perform all needed rescues and survival skills, including administering CPR and First Aid effectively.
  • Think in abstract, solve problems, make decisions, instruct, evaluate, remember and supervise.
  • Ability to crouch and bend at the waist and knees.
  • Ability to work in a variety of environments, specifically those subject to extreme humidity/dampness and heat.
  • Ability to come in contact with pool chemicals.
  • Ability to sit, stand and walk for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to perform a variety of functions, repetitive motions, work with precise limits, tolerances and standards.
  • Ability to work with a diverse population of participants and influence people in their attitudes, opinions and judgments.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with members, participants, YMCA staff and general public
MEMBER INVOLVEMENT SKILLS
  • Acquaint members with other YMCA programs and benefits.
  • Develop relationships that promote the building of small communities.
  • Recommend participation in a variety of YMCA programs.
  • Support the YMCA annual campaign, invite members to participate.
  • Be able to articulate the role and importance of volunteers.
  • Be informed about volunteer opportunities.
  • Provide an environment in which valuing diversity is encouraged and the 40 Developmental Assets can be built and emphasized.
EFFECT ON END RESULT
  1. Evidence of good planning and organization by being on time and prepared for classes.
  2. Evidence of successful class instruction by participants learning/mastering skills.
  3. Facilities and equipment being maintained in adequate condition (clean and used appropriately) and kept safe according to YMCA and OSHA guidelines.
  4. Recognition of the Branch in the community as a leader in the area of Aquatics and promoting healthy lifestyles in children and adults.

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