Swim Lesson Instructor

Swim Lesson Instructor

YMCA

Rockford, IL

$15/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


YMCA rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 1,974 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

476th of 663 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

YOUR IMPACT
This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. At the Y, participants learn swimming skills and feel a sense of achievement from mastering something new that they can enjoy the rest of their lives. The Swim Instructor provides direct leadership, instruction and motivation for students in swimming classes. In accordance with YMCA policies and procedures, Swim Lesson Instructors will ensure safe and quality program operations that promotes the five core values of the YMCA: caring, honesty, respect, responsibility and faith as well as upholds our service standards of welcoming, connecting, supporting, and inviting. Regardless of primary assignment, this position is expected to rotate between all YMCA pool and satellite locations.

WHAT YOUR DAY MAY LOOK LIKE
No two days are the same in this role but every day centers on helping swimmers build confidence, develop life-saving skills, and enjoy a safe, supportive, and fun aquatic experience.

  • Teach swim lessons using YMCA curriculum, lesson plans, and instructional tools
  • Create a positive, encouraging environment where swimmers of all levels can learn and grow
  • Serve as a YMCA role model by demonstrating core values and service standards
  • Build strong relationships with students and families while encouraging continued participation
  • Share information about aquatics programs, schedules, and YMCA opportunities
  • Track attendance, swimmer progress, and achievement records accurately
  • Maintain safety at all times by following pool rules, policies, and emergency procedures
  • Respond to incidents or emergencies and support lifeguards as needed
  • Set up, organize, and store class equipment before and after lessons
  • Train and guide class aides as assigned
  • Support special events and family engagement activities when scheduled
  • Meet attendance, punctuality, and professionalism expectations
  • Promote character development and diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout programming
  • Report damaged equipment or safety concerns promptly

If you enjoy teaching, love working with children and families, and want to make a lasting impact through swim safety and confidence-building this role is for you.

SCHEDULE & COMPENSATION: 10 Positions
Positions 1 & 2: Northeast Family YMCA
Part-Time, Non-Exempt
Saturday 8:45 - 11:45 am
Possible Sub options on Tuesday or Thursday as needed
Additional willingness to pick up private lessons as availability allows
$15.00 per hour

Positions 3, 4 & 5: SwedishAmerican Riverfront YMCA
Part-Time, Non-Exempt
Monday and Wednesday 4:15 - 7:00 pm
Saturday 8:15 - 11:55am
Possible Sub options on Tuesday or Thursday as needed
Additional willingness to pick up private lessons as availability allows
$15.00 per hour

Positions 6 - 10: SwedishAmerican Riverfront YMCA and Alpine Pool
Part-Time, Non-Exempt
Monday - Thursday 8:50 am - 12:35 pm and 5:45 - 8:15 pm
Additional willingness to pick up private lessons as availability allows
$15.00 per hour

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Minimum age of 16 years old required.
  • Certifications required within 90 days of hire: Basic Life Support, Basic First Aid, Emergency Use of Medical Oxygen, and YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor V6.
  • Must be able to demonstrate swim instructor skills in accordance with YMCA standards
  • Praesidium Academy trainings.
  • Within 60 days of hire, complete YMCAs I Hear You: Service with CARE e-learning.
  • Prefer knowledge of, and previous experience with, diverse populations.
  • Proven track record of developing authentic and deepened relationships with others.

FREE TRAINING AVAILABLE!
If you do not currently meet the certification requirement, we are offering the following courses:

FULL SLI CLASS:

Upcoming Class Dates:
Day 1: 4/28 - 4:00 - 8:00 pm
Day 2: 4/29 - 4:00 - 8:00 pm
Day 3: 4/30 - 4:00 - 8:00 pm

THERE'S SO MUCH MORE TO WORKING AT THE Y! Employment benefit information available HERE.

The Y is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We offer more than just a job, rather the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of those around you.

The Y: We're for Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility


What YMCA employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom



Frequently asked questions

Q: What skills or qualities help someone succeed as a Swim Coach?

A: To succeed as a Swim Coach, key technical skills include expertise in stroke technique, training methods, and safety protocols, as well as knowledge of competitive swimming rules and regulations. Soft skills such as effective communication, leadership, and patience are also crucial, as coaches must motivate and guide swimmers of varying skill levels and personalities. By combining these technical and interpersonal strengths, a Swim Coach can build strong relationships with athletes, develop well-structured training plans, and foster a positive team environment that supports career growth and long-term success.

Q: What is the career path for a Swim Coach?

A: A typical career progression for a Swim Coach involves starting as an Assistant Coach or Swim Instructor, where they develop foundational coaching skills and gain experience working with athletes. As they progress to a Head Coach or Senior Coach role, they take on more responsibility for team management, athlete development, and program planning, often requiring advanced certifications and continuing education in areas like sports science and leadership. Ultimately, experienced Swim Coaches may transition into senior leadership positions, such as Program Director or Aquatic Director, or pursue careers in sports administration, education, or sports medicine.



YMCA job posting for a Swim Lesson Instructor in Rockford, IL with a salary of $15 Hourly with a map of Rockford location.