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Water Sports Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Bay Club Company

Summer Camp Sports Instructor

Novato, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

The Sports Instructor will ensure a safe, clean, and engaging environment, while providing age ... Teach swimming fundamentals and water safety skills, fostering confidence and skill improvement.

Velocity Aquatics LLC

Swim Instructor

Buffalo, NY · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

As a Swim Instructor, you will teach students about water safety and swimming techniques using our ... Experience as a certified lifeguard, swimming instructor, youth sports instructor/coach, camp ...

Velocity Aquatics LLC

Swim Instructor

Buffalo, NY · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

As a Swim Instructor, you will teach students about water safety and swimming techniques using our ... Experience as a certified lifeguard, swimming instructor, youth sports instructor/coach, camp ...

Velocity Aquatics LLC

Swim Instructor

Buffalo, NY · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

As a Swim Instructor, you will teach students about water safety and swimming techniques using our ... Experience as a certified lifeguard, swimming instructor, youth sports instructor/coach, camp ...

Sloane Stephens Foundation

Swim Instructor

Compton, CA · On-site

$25/hr

As a Swim Instructor, you will teach students about water safety and swimming techniques using our ... Experience as a certified lifeguard, swimming instructor, youth sports instructor/coach, camp ...

Sloane Stephens Foundation

Swim Instructor

Compton, CA · On-site

$25/hr

As a Swim Instructor, you will teach students about water safety and swimming techniques using our ... Experience as a certified lifeguard, swimming instructor, youth sports instructor/coach, camp ...

Sloane Stephens Foundation

Swim Instructor

Compton, CA · On-site

$25/hr

As a Swim Instructor, you will teach students about water safety and swimming techniques using our ... Experience as a certified lifeguard, swimming instructor, youth sports instructor/coach, camp ...

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Water Sports Instructor information

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How much do water sports instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for water sports instructor in the United States is $20.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a water sports instructor?

Water Sports Instructors are professionals who teach individuals or groups how to safely and effectively participate in various water-based activities, such as swimming, surfing, kayaking, sailing, or scuba diving. They provide instruction on techniques, safety protocols, and equipment usage, often tailoring lessons to the skill level and needs of their students. Instructors are typically certified in their specific sport and trained in first aid and emergency procedures to ensure a safe learning environment.

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

To thrive as a Water Sports Instructor, you need strong swimming ability, knowledge of water safety, and appropriate instructor certifications such as lifeguard or water sports-specific credentials. Familiarity with equipment like kayaks, paddleboards, sailboats, and first aid kits, as well as systems for booking and managing lessons, is typically required. Excellent communication, patience, and motivational skills help instructors effectively teach diverse groups and ensure a positive learning environment. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring participant safety, delivering engaging instruction, and fostering enjoyment of water sports.

What are common challenges faced by water sports instructors and how can they be managed?

Water Sports Instructors often face challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, varying skill levels among participants, and ensuring safety while maintaining an enjoyable learning environment. Managing these challenges requires strong situational awareness, effective communication, and the ability to adapt lesson plans on the fly. Building rapport with students and staying updated on the latest safety protocols are also key to handling unexpected situations and fostering a positive experience for everyone involved.

What is the difference between Water Sports Instructor vs Surf Instructor?

AspectWater Sports InstructorSurf Instructor
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Water Safety CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Surf-specific Certifications
Work EnvironmentLakes, rivers, oceans, water parksBeaches, surf schools, ocean waves
Industry UsageVarious water sports including kayaking, paddleboarding, sailingPrimarily surfing and wave riding
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Water Sports Instructors and Surf Instructors both require water safety certifications and work in aquatic environments. However, Water Sports Instructors typically teach a variety of water activities across different settings, while Surf Instructors specialize in teaching surfing techniques on ocean waves. The choice depends on the specific water activity and environment you are interested in pursuing.

Who are the top companies hiring for Water Sports Instructor jobs?

The top employers for Water Sports Instructor jobs are:

What states have the most Water Sports Instructor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Water Sports Instructor jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Water Sports Instructor jobs?

For Water Sports Instructor jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Water Sports Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Sports Instructor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,749 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Summer Camp Sports Instructor

Daly City, CA • On-site

The Bay Club Company
Finance and Insurance • 1 - 10 employees
Learn more about The Bay Club Companyexternal

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

GENERAL SUMMARYUnder the direction of the Family Programming Director, the Summer Camp Sports Instructor is responsible for leading camp rotations in one specialized sport-Tennis, Aquatics/Swimming, Pickleball, or Golf-for children ages three to fifteen years old. The Sports Instructor will ensure a safe, clean, and engaging environment, while providing age-appropriate instruction, adhering to the department's established guidelines and standards, and promoting fun and skill development within their area of expertise.
Our Culture
Our unique culture is at the heart of all we do and is guided by our values and behaviors. It's what we expect of ourselves and each other every day. We call it our "Code of Culture".
Our Code of Culture includes Our Mantra, Our Actions We Live By, and Pete's Promise:
Our Mantra:
Respect The Past
Accept Responsibility
Pay it Forward
Our Actions We Live By:
Actions We Live By. It's who we are when we step into our full power.
Keep It Real. Always. We need open and honest discussions. We need courage to speak up and to call things out that aren't good enough. And we navigate tough conversations with empathy and grace.
Think Ahead. Be An Owner. Always be proactive, not reactive; be on the front foot. If we want to be an owner of this business, we must act like it!
Stay Humble. Hustle Harder. Show up and do the hard workBe a gritty, roll-up-your-sleeves kind of crewKnow it's never about one person-we are a part of a powerful team.
One Team. One Voice. Be ONE united team. When we move in the same direction, there are no limits to what we can accomplish.
Be Curious. Ask Why. Stay member curiousWe seek to understand, and we never settle. We ask questions to truly understand the core of a matter.
Pete's Promise:
Service Forward
Ruthlessly Consistent
Do the Right Thing
Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
PRIMARY JOB FUNCTIONS
  • Organize campers ages three to fifteen years old for specialized sports rotations.
  • Provide a safe, clean environment by maintaining sports areas, including organizing equipment, wiping down surfaces, and ensuring all equipment is properly stored after use.
  • Supervise campers at all times during sports activities, addressing safety concerns promptly.
  • Plan and lead age-appropriate sports activities such as drills, scrimmages, and games to foster skill development and fun.
  • Greet parents and children warmly; encourage camper participation with enthusiasm.
  • Engage with campers during sports sessions, ensuring all children are actively participating, with extra attention to those needing guidance.
  • Safely transfer campers to and from sports activities within the Club.
  • Arrive punctually for all scheduled activities and ensure all equipment is set up and stored correctly before and after use.
  • Represent the camp and club professionally through positive interactions, appropriate attire, and timely responses.
  • Communicate with the Family Programming Director and parents in a timely and professional manner regarding camper progress or any issues.
  • Actively participate in camp events, programs, staff meetings, training sessions, and marketing efforts related to the camp.

TENNIS OVERSIGHT (if applicable)
  • Organize and lead tennis camp activities for campers ages three to twelve, including drills, games, and mini tournaments tailored to various skill levels.
  • Teach tennis fundamentals such as grip, strokes, footwork, and rules in an engaging, age-appropriate manner.
  • Promote a positive learning environment encouraging skill development, teamwork, and enjoyment of the sport.
  • Monitor camper safety on and around the courts, addressing hazards promptly and enforcing safety guidelines.
  • Provide constructive feedback to help campers improve their skills and confidence.
  • Assist with the setup and cleanup of tennis activities, ensuring all equipment is stored properly.

AQUATICS OVERSIGHT (if applicable)
  • Organize and lead aquatics activities for campers ages three to twelve, including swim lessons, water safety drills, and fun pool games.
  • Teach swimming fundamentals and water safety skills, fostering confidence and skill improvement.
  • Conduct swim evaluations to determine camper skill levels and group placements.
  • Track and document camper attendance for aquatics activities and lessons.
  • Participate actively in camp events, programs, and staff meetings, as well as required in-service training sessions.
  • Enforce all pool rules and safety policies, ensuring a safe environment.
  • Monitor camper behavior in and around the pool, addressing safety concerns immediately.
  • Assist with maintaining the cleanliness and organization of the aquatics center, ensuring equipment is stored properly.

GOLF OVERSIGHT (if applicable)
  • Organize and lead golf activities for campers ages six to fourteen, including skill-building exercises, games, and fun challenges tailored to different age groups and abilities.
  • Teach golf fundamentals such as grip, stance, swing mechanics, and course etiquette in an engaging, age-appropriate manner.
  • Monitor camper behavior during golf activities, addressing safety concerns and promoting sportsmanship.
  • Provide positive and constructive feedback to improve camper skills and confidence.
  • Assist in maintaining the cleanliness and organization of the golf area, ensuring all equipment is properly stored.

PICKLEBALL OVERSIGHT (if applicable)
  • Organize and lead pickleball activities for campers ages three to twelve, including drills, games, and fun competitions tailored to different skill levels.
  • Teach pickleball fundamentals such as grip, paddle control, footwork, and rules in an engaging, age-appropriate manner.
  • Actively encourage camper participation in group activities and foster teamwork and sportsmanship.
  • Monitor camper safety during pickleball activities, enforcing safety guidelines and court policies.
  • Assist in maintaining the cleanliness and organization of pickleball courts, ensuring equipment is stored properly.

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS
  • Communicate timely and follow up as appropriate.
  • Active participation in required events, programs, meetings, and trainings.
  • Flexibility in work schedule, as job may require day and evening shifts, weekends, and holidays.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each primary job function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION
  • Minimum one (1) year of experience working with children in a childcare, babysitting, camp, coaching, or instructional setting.
  • Competitive playing experience at the high school or collegiate level in one or more of the following sports: Aquatics, Tennis, Pickleball, or Golf.
  • Strong understanding of the fundamentals, techniques, and rules of the sport(s).
  • CPR certification required.
  • Professional, friendly manner and excellent customer service attitude.
  • Strong verbal communication and conflict resolution skills.
  • Enthusiastic, responsible, and dependable team player.
  • Self-motivated, takes initiative, and willing to acquire new skills.
  • Well-organized and detail oriented.

AQUATICS-SPECIFIC QUALIFICATIONS (if applicable)
  • Current Lifeguard/CPR/AED certification for adults, infants, and toddlers.
  • Experience teaching swim lessons for all ages.
  • Understanding of best practices in learn-to-swim techniques, competitive swim skills, and childhood development.

WORKING CONDITIONS/ PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Ability to arrive at work on time for all scheduled work shifts required. Ability to work weekends, evenings, and holidays required.
  • Must be flexible, adaptable, and readily able to adjust to changes in work environment.
  • Position requires daily public contact.
  • It is sometimes necessary to deal with unpleasant or angry people with the need to problem solve difficult situations.
  • It is necessary to adapt to a frequently changing environment.
  • Frequently required to use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms.
  • Frequently required to climb or balance and occasionally stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  • Must occasionally sit for extended periods and regularly walk around the facility
  • Must occasionally talk and hear
  • Must frequently move 10 pounds and in the event of an emergency lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required but this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

The language skills, reasoning ability, physical demands, and work environment described are representative of those that must be met by an Associate to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
JOB DESCRIPTION REVISION
This is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, efforts or working conditions associated with this job. While this job description is intended to be an accurate reflection of the current job, management reserves the right to revise the job or to require that other or different tasks be performed when circumstances change. This job description replaces all previous descriptions for this position.
An Equal Opportunity Employer
The Bay Club Company ("TBCC") provides equal employment opportunities without regard to race (and all traits historically associated with race, including but not limited to, hair texture and protective hairstyles), color, religion, creed (including, but not limited to, religious dress and grooming practices), sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, and breastfeeding, and other related medical conditions), sexual orientation and identity, gender, gender identity, gender expression, actual or perceived national origin/ancestry, accent or ability to speak English, age, disability, marital/familial status, source of income, veteran status, citizenship status, political activities or affiliations, medical condition, genetic information, persons with AIDS or AIDS-related condition, or persons who are victims of domestic violence.

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