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Ymca Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

YMCA

Avery Sports Instructor

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$15.25 - $16.25/hr

W Avery YMCA! Step into an exciting role as a Sports Instructor at the Y, where you'll inspire and guide participants of all ages through engaging and challenging sports activities. As a key member ...

YMCA

Avery Swim Instructor

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$15.25 - $16.25/hr

W Avery YMCA. We are looking for enthusiastic and dedicated Aquatics Instructors to join our team. In this role, you will have the rewarding responsibility of teaching swim lessons to people of all ...

Crossroads YMCA

Group Ex Instructor I

Schererville, IN · On-site

$15/hr

No worries- the YMCA is offering MOSSA certifications for qualified instructors in three formats: Power, Fight, and Ride. Apply today! POSITION SUMMARY: This position supports the work of the Y, a ...

Crossroads YMCA

Swim Instructor II

Schererville, IN · On-site

$13.25/hr

As a Swim Instructor you help students learn life saving skills, build relationships, gain ... Follows all YMCA policies, rules, regulations, and procedures, including emergency and safety ...

Crossroads YMCA

Swim Instructor II

Gary, IN · On-site

$13.25/hr

HOBART FAMILY YMCA | 601 W. 40th Place, Hobart, IN Tuesdays & Thursdays in July: 11 AM-2 PM ... As a Swim Instructor you help students learn life saving skills, build relationships, gain ...

Crossroads YMCA

Swim Instructor II

Crown Point, IN · On-site

$13.25/hr

As a Swim Instructor you help students learn life saving skills, build relationships, gain ... Follows all YMCA policies, rules, regulations, and procedures, including emergency and safety ...

Crossroads YMCA

Swim Instructor II

Hammond, IN · On-site

$13.25/hr

As a Swim Instructor you help students learn life saving skills, build relationships, gain ... Follows all YMCA policies, rules, regulations, and procedures, including emergency and safety ...

Crossroads YMCA

STEAM Instructor

Hammond, IN · On-site

$11/hr

STEAM Instructor I provides excellent customer service to all members, guests, and program ... Understand, articulate, and enforce YMCA policies and procedures in a positive way by giving safety ...

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All JobsYmca Instructor JobsYmca Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL

Ymca Instructor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$21

$37

How much do ymca instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for ymca instructor in Chicago, IL is $21.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a YMCA instructor?

YMCA Instructors are professionals who lead classes and programs at YMCA facilities, often focusing on fitness, aquatic activities, youth development, or community education. They are responsible for creating a safe, welcoming environment and ensuring participants have a positive, engaging experience. YMCA Instructors may teach group exercise, swim lessons, youth sports, or enrichment activities, and they often require certifications in first aid, CPR, and their area of instruction. Their role also includes motivating members, ensuring safety, and fostering the YMCA's core values of respect, responsibility, honesty, and caring.

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

To thrive as a YMCA Instructor, you need expertise in fitness instruction, CPR/First Aid certification, and relevant fitness or recreation qualifications. Familiarity with fitness equipment, scheduling software, and group class management systems is typically required. Strong communication, motivational skills, and the ability to adapt to diverse participant needs are valuable soft skills. These competencies ensure safe, engaging, and inclusive programs that support participants' health and wellness goals.

What are some common challenges YMCA instructors face when leading group classes, and how can they overcome them?

YMCA Instructors often encounter challenges such as managing diverse participant skill levels, maintaining engagement, and adapting lessons for varying age groups. To overcome these, instructors should prepare inclusive lesson plans, foster a positive and supportive environment, and utilize flexible teaching methods to accommodate all participants. Effective communication and ongoing professional development also help instructors address group dynamics and ensure safe, enjoyable experiences for everyone involved.

What is the difference between Ymca Instructor vs Lifeguard?

AspectYmca InstructorLifeguard
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, YMCA Instructor CertificationCPR, First Aid, Lifeguard Certification
Work EnvironmentTeaching classes, leading activities, engaging with participantsMonitoring pool, ensuring safety, rescuing swimmers
Job FocusInstruction and program deliverySafety and rescue

Ymca Instructors primarily focus on teaching and leading activities, requiring certifications like CPR and YMCA Instructor Certification. Lifeguards concentrate on pool safety, rescue, and prevention, with certifications like Lifeguard Certification. While both roles require CPR and First Aid, their daily tasks and environments differ significantly. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers find the right position aligned with their skills and interests.

Ymca Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ymca Instructor job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 53% Full Time, 42% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,468 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Avery Sports Instructor

YMCA

Plainfield, IL • On-site

$15.25 - $16.25/hr

Part-time

Posted 12 days ago

YMCA rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 1,989 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

579th of 781 rated non-profit organizations

Job description

Become a Sports Instructor at the C.W Avery YMCA!
Step into an exciting role as a Sports Instructor at the Y, where you'll inspire and guide participants of all ages through engaging and challenging sports activities. As a key member of our team, you'll create a safe and supportive atmosphere that encourages learning, growth, and fun, all while upholding the YMCA's mission and core values. Your expertise in sports rules and regulations will be crucial as you lead activities, build strong relationships with members, and ensure that our facilities and equipment are always in top shape. This is a fantastic opportunity to share your passion for sports and make a meaningful impact in our community!
POSITION SUMMARY:
Seeking a dynamic and committed Youth and Adult Sports Instructor to develop, plan and implement challenging, daily activities for groups of all ages. Creates a safe and positive atmosphere that promotes member safety and engagement in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures. Ensure all activities and events are reflective of the YMCAs mission and promote character values including Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility.
OUR CULTURE:
Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Responsible for the instruction and guidance of various sports activities for people of all ages.
  • Must have good knowledge of all current rules and regulations of the sport hired to instruct.
  • Maintains effective, positive relationships with the members, participants and other staff.
  • Knows, understands, and consistently applies safety rules, policies and guidelines set forth by the YMCA.
  • Performs equipment checks and ensures appropriate equipment is available as needed.
  • Responsible for the set up and tear down of various equipment needed for activities.

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Minimum age of 16.
  • CPR, First Aid, AED certifications, Child Abuse Prevention and Sexual Harassment training prior to first day of hire.
  • Previous experience with diverse populations preferred.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
  • Ability to plan, lead and participate in a range of activities in a variety of outdoor/indoor settings. Outdoor temperatures may exceed 90 degrees.

Part-Time Benefits
  • FREE Y Membership
  • 25% off on Y programming
  • Participation in the Y's retirement plan (when eligibility requirements have been met)

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