Swim Instructor
Gallatin Valley YMCA·Bozeman, Montana
Gallatin Valley YMCA·Bozeman, Montana
The Swim Instructor provides direct leadership and instruction for swim classes while maintaining a safe, supportive, and positive environment for all participants. They are responsible for preparing lesson plans, tracking student progress, and fostering strong relationships with members and families.
Description The Swim Lessons Instructor is responsible for delivering high-quality, safety-focused swim instruction to participants of all ages and skill levels.
This role goes beyond basic supervision and requires active teaching, clear communication, and the ability to adapt instruction to meet individual swimmer needs.
Instructors are expected to create a positive, structured, and engaging learning environment while maintaining consistent class management, enforcing safety protocols, and upholding program standards.
A successful instructor demonstrates professionalism, reliability, and a commitment to helping swimmers build confidence, develop proper technique, and progress through the program with measurable growth.
They will provide direct supervision of a group of all ages during the sports activities, while providing a quality experience to children and parents focused on YMCA core values: Honesty, Respect, Responsibility, and Caring.
The Gallatin Valley YMCA reserves the right to terminate contracts with one week’s written notice should circumstances dictate a need to reduce services or close sports programs.
The Swim Instructor is expected to maintain a supportive, positive atmosphere that welcome and respect all individuals and provides direct leadership, instruction and motivation for students in swim classes
The
Swim
Instructor will be required to: Instruct swimming lessons in accordance with YMCA guidelines, having prepared lesson plans accordingly, and support members and program participants in achieving their goals. Develop and maintain positive relationships with volunteers, members or program participants, and colleagues at all levels of the organization; helps participants and families connect with each other and the YMCA; and encourages parent or caregiver involvement. Convey information on aquatics programs and schedules and as appropriate refers program participants and families to other programs. Maintain records as required (e.g., attendance, progress reports). Additional assigned tasks Adhere to program standards including safety and cleanliness standards. Attends staff meetings and training as scheduled. Follows all YMCA policies, rules, regulations and procedures, including emergency and safety procedures. Completes incident and accident reports as necessary. Perform other duties as assigned. Complete timesheets on a daily basis. Builds positive relationships with members and children in the program. Assume all other duties and assignments are deemed appropriate.
At least 16 years of age. Minimum one-year previous experience working with children in a developmental setting preferred. Must be able to pass a Criminal Background Check. Infant/Child/Adult CPR, First Aid and AED certifications within 30 days of hire date. Child Abuse Prevention training preferred but will be offered Previous experience with diverse populations. Ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with people from different backgrounds. PHYSICAL DEMANDS Must be able to meet minimum requirements and perform functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation. Must be able to communicate clearly to all children, parents, members and company personnel. Present a clean, well-groomed appearance. Ability to walk, stand, and sit (including on the floor) for long periods of time Must be able to lift and/or assist children up to 50 pounds in weight. Occasionally must be able to lift and carry supplies and equipment weighing up to 20 pounds. Frequently may require bending, leaning, kneeling, and walking Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Y’s values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fund-raising.
Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view, and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others.
Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience. Establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work and actively participates in meetings. Follows budgeting policies and procedures, and reports all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members.
Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change, and seeks opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths and limitations and how they impact relationships. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.
Market context
In Montana, classroom teacher roles are typically driven by ongoing demand for experienced educators who can step into licensed early childhood settings and meet certification requirements. These positions can be competitive because employers often look for candidates with verified program experience, CPR, Pediatric First Aid, Infant Safety Essentials, and either 32 hours of ECP training or Level 2 registry status. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, then confirm your credentials and highlight your early childhood experience in your application.
