Crossroads YMCA·Crown Point, Indiana
The Swim Instructor provides direct leadership and instruction to students in swim classes to help them learn lifesaving skills. They are responsible for maintaining a safe learning environment, preparing equipment, and completing necessary progress tracking paperwork.
This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Delivers legendary service to all members, guests, and program participants. Under the direction of the Aquatic Leadership the Swim Instructor will maintain a supportive, positive atmosphere that welcomes and respects all individuals and provides direct leadership, instruction, and motivation for students in swim classes. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Complete all necessary paperwork and record keeping in a timely manner (i.e. attendance, progress tracker, certification of achievements, accident reports.) Be prepared and relationship ready by having all equipment set up BEFORE class time begins and put away after class ends. Report any damage equipment. Spend adequate time in the water to develop participants to their fullest potential and providing exceptional instruction. Maintain a professional appearance and attitude. Maintain a positive and cooperative attitude when sharing site space, including maintaining an appropriate voice level and using space appropriately to class needs and site provisions. Provide appropriate attention to class and participants and refrain from socializing with other personnel during class time. Assist in leading new or inexperienced staff in teaching by allowing them to follow your class structure and advising them on best practices. Instructs swimming lessons in accordance with YMCA guidelines, having and using prepared lesson plans. Follows all YMCA policies, rules, regulations, and procedures, including emergency and safety procedures. Attend all meetings and trainings as assigned. Perform other duties as assigned.
Must be able to demonstrate swim instructor skills in accordance with YMCA standards. Ability to relate and communicate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community. 3+ months teaching and training in an aquatic environment. Minimum of 16 years of age. Current nationally recognized swim instructor certification. Y-USA Swim Instructor certification preferred. Within 30 days of hire, complete all New Employee Orientation trainings. MEMBER ENGAGEMENT: Know and model the Crossroads YMCA staff pledge to ensure participants have a legendary experience. Acquaint and recommend members to participate in a variety of YMCA programs. Develop professional relationships that promote the building of small communities. Recommend participation in a variety of YMCA programs. Support our YMCA annual campaign by inviting members to participate. Build an environment in which valuing diversity and inclusion is encouraged. WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Ability to work accurately at a fast pace. Visual, auditory, and verbal ability to communicate effectively. Ability to work in a variety of environments, specifically those subject to extreme humidity/dampness and heat. Must have high level of alertness, concentration, and initiative. Sufficient strength, agility, and mobility to perform job responsibilities. Ability to lift 50 lbs. and stand, walk, or sit for extended periods of time; occasionally stoop/bend. Qualifications
Candidates must be at least 16 years old and possess a current nationally recognized swim instructor certification. A minimum of 3 months of teaching experience in an aquatic environment is required.
Market context
In Indiana, Swim Instructor II roles are often driven by year-round aquatics programs, youth lessons, and community recreation needs. These positions are competitive because employers typically look for current certification, prior aquatic teaching experience, and strong communication with diverse groups. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, then confirm your certification is current and be ready to describe how you teach to YMCA standards.