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Swimming Instructor Jobs in Philadelphia, PA (NOW HIRING)

Goldfish Swim School

Swim Instructor

Media, PA · On-site

$13 - $17/hr

Two or more years as a swimming instructor preferred. Swimming experience preferred Certificates and Licenses : Paid Training Provided for Lifeguard, CPR/AED and First Aid certifications.

Goldfish Swim School

Swim Instructor

Wilmington, DE · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Swimming experience preferred. * However, we provide all necessary training to individuals who come in with little to no swim experience. A love for working with kids goes a long way, the rest we can ...

Career Site

Swim Instructor

Flemington, NJ · On-site

$15.92 - $23/hr

Passionate about teaching the lifesaving skill of swimming? We are looking for individuals, age 15+ to serve as group and private swim instructors. As a swim instructor, you develop important skills ...

Career Site

Swim Instructor

Doylestown, PA · On-site

$12/hr

Passionate about teaching the lifesaving skill of swimming? We are looking for individuals, age 15+ to serve as group and private swim instructors. As a swim instructor, you develop important skills ...

River Crossing YMCA

Swim Instructor

Warminster, PA · On-site

$12.50 - $23/hr

Passionate about teaching the lifesaving skill of swimming? We are looking for individuals, age 15+ to serve as group and private swim instructors. As a swim instructor, you develop important skills ...

River Crossing YMCA

Swim Instructor

Doylestown, PA · On-site

$12.50 - $23/hr

Passionate about teaching the lifesaving skill of swimming? We are looking for individuals, age 15+ to serve as group and private swim instructors. As a swim instructor, you develop important skills ...

River Crossing YMCA

Swim Instructor

Flemington, NJ · On-site

$15.92 - $23/hr

Passionate about teaching the lifesaving skill of swimming? We are looking for individuals, age 15+ to serve as group and private swim instructors. As a swim instructor, you develop important skills ...

Career Site

Swim Instructor

Warminster, PA

$12/hr

Passionate about teaching the lifesaving skill of swimming? We are looking for individuals, age 15+ to serve as group and private swim instructors. As a swim instructor, you develop important skills ...

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All JobsSwimming Instructor JobsSwimming Instructor Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

Swimming Instructor information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$8

$18

$37

How much do swimming instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for swimming instructor in Philadelphia, PA is $18.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $20.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a swimming instructor do?

A swimming instructor is responsible for teaching individuals or groups how to swim, improve their swimming techniques, and ensure water safety. They work with people of all ages and skill levels, from beginners learning basic water skills to advanced swimmers refining their strokes. Instructors also create lesson plans, monitor progress, and often provide water safety education to prevent accidents. Their role may include demonstrating techniques, offering feedback, and sometimes assisting in lifeguarding duties during lessons.

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

To thrive as a Swimming Instructor, you need strong swimming proficiency, knowledge of water safety, and usually certifications such as CPR, first aid, and swim instruction credentials (e.g., Red Cross Water Safety Instructor). Familiarity with pool safety equipment and lesson-planning tools is important for effective instruction and emergency preparedness. Patience, clear communication, and motivational skills help instructors connect with students of all ages and abilities. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure safe, engaging, and successful learning experiences for participants.

What are some common challenges swimming instructors face when working with beginners, and how can they be managed?

Swimming instructors often encounter beginners who are anxious or fearful of the water, which can make initial lessons challenging. To manage this, instructors use patience, positive reinforcement, and gradual skill-building techniques to help students build confidence. Clear communication and adapting teaching methods to individual needs are crucial for creating a supportive learning environment. Additionally, instructors work closely with parents or guardians to set realistic expectations and encourage consistent practice outside of lessons.

What is the difference between Swimming Instructor vs Lifeguard?

AspectSwimming InstructorLifeguard
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Swimming Instructor CertificationCPR, First Aid, Lifeguard Certification
Work EnvironmentSwimming pools, aquatic centers, swim schoolsPools, beaches, water parks, aquatic facilities
Primary RoleTeaching swimming skills and water safetyMonitoring water areas, ensuring safety, rescuing
Employer & IndustrySwim schools, recreation centers, gymsPublic pools, private clubs, beaches

While both Swimming Instructors and Lifeguards work in aquatic environments and require CPR and First Aid certifications, their roles differ. Swimming Instructors focus on teaching swimming techniques and water safety, whereas Lifeguards primarily monitor water areas to prevent accidents and perform rescues. Both roles are essential for water safety but serve distinct functions within aquatic settings.

How much do you get paid as a swimming instructor?

Swimming instructors typically earn an hourly wage that ranges from $10 to $30, depending on experience, location, and the facility. Many instructors also receive tips and may work part-time or seasonal hours, with certifications like CPR and lifeguard training often required to qualify for higher pay.

Is being a swimming instructor worth it?

A swimming instructor teaches swimming skills and water safety, often working in pools or aquatic centers. The job offers flexible hours and the opportunity to work with diverse age groups, but pay varies based on experience and location. Certification in lifeguarding and CPR is typically required.

What do you need to be a swimming instructor?

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

What are popular job titles related to Swimming Instructor jobs in Philadelphia, PA?

For Swimming Instructor jobs in Philadelphia, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Swimming Instructor jobs in Philadelphia, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Swimming Instructor jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:

What cities near Philadelphia, PA are hiring for Swimming Instructor jobs?

Cities near Philadelphia, PA with the most Swimming Instructor job openings:

Swimming Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Swimming Instructor job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 21% Full Time, and 79% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,436 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Swim Instructor - Paid Training

Goldfish Swim School - Southeastern PA

Malvern, PA • On-site

$12 - $17/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Swim Instructor (July Start to end of year) - Paid Training
Benefits:
  • Paid Training
  • Free Uniform
  • Leadership roles
  • Flexible hours
  • Great pay
  • Valuable work experience
  • Future references/referrals
Requirements:
  • Ability to work with children
  • Excellent interpersonal communication and organizational skills
  • Must pass background examinations (included with training)
Summary:  Goldfish Swim School - Malvern is seeking individuals who are enthusiastic, reliable, team-oriented, and passionate about working with children. We are dedicated to providing a safe, fun, and engaging environment where children ages 4 months to 12 years build essential swimming and water safety skills. As a team member, you'll play a vital role in delivering a positive experience for families and ensuring every swimmer receives top-quality instruction. We’re looking for energetic, dependable individuals who love working with children and are committed to making a difference. We values . No previous swim instructor experience is required—training is provided! 
Duties and Responsibilities:
  1. Provides swim instruction based on the Goldfish Swim School curriculum.
  2. Enforces safety rules and regulations to prevent accidents. Makes rescues and administers first aid when necessary.
  3. Evaluates students’ progress, and completes required paperwork in a timely manner.
  4. Interacts with parents/guardians on the activities and development of students’ swim skills.
  5. Acts as a GSS “ambassador” to ensure parental satisfaction.
  6. Uses problem solving and creative thinking skills to identify and resolve challenges that students encounter.
  7. Maintains and ensures proper storage of all pool equipment.
  8. Reports accidents and incidents to management. Completes required documentation and paperwork.
  9. Performs Deck Teacher duties as needed.
  10. Attends monthly required/mandatory workshops and in-service training.
  11. Fulfills other duties or responsibilities as assigned by the Employer.
Education/Experience: High school diploma or GED is preferred. Experience as a certified lifeguard, youth sports instructor/coach, camp counselor and/or childcare provider also preferred. Two or more years as a swimming instructor preferred. Swimming experience preferred 
.
Certificates and Licenses: Paid Training Provided for Lifeguard, CPR/AED, Supplemental Oxygen Systems and First Aid certifications.