YMCA of Upper Palmetto·Fort Mill, South Carolina
The Swim Lesson Instructor is responsible for providing swimming instruction using National Aquatic YMCA Programs and ensuring the safety of students at all times. This role also involves assisting the Aquatics Director with branch activities, special events, and maintaining records of attendance and skill accomplishment.
Under supervision of the Aquatics Director and consistent with the Christian mission of the YMCA. The Swim Lesson Instructor is responsible for providing swimming instruction using National Aquatic YMCA Programs and ensuring safety of the students at all times. The Swim Lesson Instructor will assist the Aquatic Director with various branch activities such as special events, and other activities that occur on various occasions. The Program Director schedules and assigns group lessons. Position may require day, night and weekend work.
Teach aquatic skills
Set up your class for a safe and fun environment
Communicate with parents/guardians and/or participant of progress
Maintain attendance and skill accomplishment records.
Dress appropriately with swimwear and YMCA Swim Instructor shirt.
Follow prepared lesson plans.
Maintain teaching equipment (kick boards, floats, etc.).
Always be within arm’s reach of students and never turn your back to students
Know the YMCA emergency procedures and location of emergency equipment.
Prepared and able to teach a variety of ages - from 6 months to adult if needed.
Use age appropriate equipment and activities/games for the age and level of your students.
Attend scheduled staff meetings, trainings and special events.
Candidates must be 16 years or older and must obtain YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor certification or American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor certification within 60 days of employment, alongside current CPR, AED, First Aid, and Emergency Oxygen certifications. The position requires maturity, strong communication skills, a positive attitude, and the physical ability to perform various tasks like lifting up to 25 pounds.
Market context
Swim lesson instructors in South Carolina are often needed at YMCAs, pools, and recreation programs, especially during warmer months and in communities focused on water safety. This role is competitive because employers typically want current CPR, AED, First Aid, and oxygen credentials, plus a YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor or American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor certification within 60 days. Review the posted certification timeline carefully; this platform AI-summarizes requirements and benefits from the original job description, saving you research time before applying.