Santa Monica Family YMCA·Santa Monica, California
The Swim Instructor is responsible for teaching swimming skills through logical progressions while ensuring the safety of all participants. They must enforce pool rules, correct improper strokes, and be prepared to administer First Aid or CPR in emergencies.
KEY AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY Enforce safety rules and follows appropriate discipline guidelines Ensure that practice time is sufficient for all students to learn skills Follow logical skill progressions, and covers appropriate amount on information in time available Recognize and correct improper strokes or skills using positive feedback Communicate effectively with students in a patient, friendly manner Administer First Aid and/or CPR as necessary Report any hazards or problems to Director immediately Educate participants regarding rules and regulations of pool area Ability to work effectively with others in alignment with the YMCA 4 Core Values Model the 4 Core Values in all aspects of position responsibilities Visual and auditory ability to critical incidents, and the physical ability to act swiftly in emergency situations Ability to adequately observe participant's activities, enforce safety regulations, and apply appropriate policies and procedures Other duties as assigned needs to be included to all roles
Minimum 18 years of age Current YMCA Swim Lesson (YSL) Certification or American Red Cross WSI Certification (must obtain YSL within 6 months) Experience instructing swim lessons preferred Must pass written and practical skills exam prior to duty Current CPR PRO/AED and must be from one of the following certifying organizations: American Red Cross American Heart Association or American Safety & Health Institute PHYSICAL DEMANDS Must be able to stand, sit, walk, climb stairs, squat, kneel, and bend for extended periods while on duty. Must be able to lift 50 lbs safely. The physical demands described here are representative of those that an employee must meet to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions. Have sufficient strength, agility and mobility to perform the essential functions and program activities. Specific vision abilities this job requires include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud. The aquatic center's temperature can fluctuate depending on the pool and may range from cool to warm.
Candidates must be at least 18 years old and hold a current CPR PRO/AED certification. A YMCA Swim Lesson or American Red Cross WSI certification is required, or must be obtained within six months.
Market context
In California, swim instructor openings are often tied to year-round aquatics programs, youth lessons, and community recreation needs, so employers typically look for candidates who can teach safely and confidently. This role is competitive because it requires current or obtainable Lifeguard and CPR certifications, plus a swim assessment, and the listed requirements and benefits here are AI-summarized from the original job description to save you research time. Before applying, confirm your certifications and be ready to describe your teaching approach and comfort working with different age groups.
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