YMCA of Upper Palmetto·Rock Hill, South Carolina
The Lifeguard Instructor is responsible for delivering American Red Cross certification courses in lifeguarding, CPR/AED, and First Aid. They must maintain a safe learning environment, evaluate participant performance, and ensure all training equipment is properly maintained.
Lifeguard Instructor - Part-Time Primarily Friday evenings, Saturday and Sunday Some availability weekdays/nights
The Lifeguard Instructor is responsible for delivering high-quality American Red Cross Lifeguarding, CPR/AED, and First Aid certification courses in strict adherence to American Red Cross standards and guidelines. This position ensures participants gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence necessary to prevent, recognize, and respond to aquatic emergencies. The Lifeguard Instructor maintains a safe and engaging learning environment while upholding organizational policies and safety protocols.
Key Responsibilities
Plan, organize, and conduct American Red Cross Lifeguarding, CPR/AED, and First Aid certification courses in accordance with current Red Cross standards and curriculum.
Ensure all course content, skill evaluations, and testing procedures comply with American Red Cross requirements.
Maintain accurate course records, rosters, and certification documentation in required Paycor and Red Cross systems.
Evaluate participant performance and provide clear, constructive feedback.
Enforce safety standards during all in-water and classroom training sessions.
Inspect and maintain training equipment (manikins, AED trainers, rescue tubes, etc.) to ensure readiness and compliance.
Promote a positive, inclusive, and professional learning environment.
Communicate effectively with Aquatics leadership regarding course scheduling, enrollment, supplies, and participant progress.
Stay current with American Red Cross updates, certifications, and instructor status requirements.
Model professional behavior and emergency response readiness at all times.
Adhere to policies related to boundaries with consumers.
Attend required abuse risk management training.
Adhere to procedures related to managing high-risk activities and supervising consumers.
Report suspicious or inappropriate behaviors and policy violations. Follow mandated abuse reporting requirements.
Current American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor (LGI) certification.
Current American Red Cross Lifeguarding, CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers, First Aid, and Administering Emergency Oxygen certifications.
Minimum age requirement as established by organizational policy (typically 18 years or older).
Strong swimming and water rescue skills.
Ability to demonstrate and teach all required lifeguarding skills.
Effective communication and instructional skills.
Ability to lift and move equipment and support in-water rescues as needed.
Previous experience teaching lifeguard or safety certification courses.
Experience working in aquatic facilities or YMCA/recreation environments.
Flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends.
Physical Requirements
Ability to swim 300+ yards continuously and perform water rescues.
Ability to retrieve a 10-pound object from deep water.
Ability to sit, stand, bend, and move for extended periods.
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
Candidates must hold current American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor (LGI) and associated safety certifications. Strong swimming skills and the ability to perform water rescues are required, along with effective instructional and communication abilities.
Market context
South Carolina schools continue to seek classroom teachers in special education, especially candidates who can support compliance, individualized instruction, and student services. This role is competitive because districts often look for both a valid South Carolina Special Education certification and practical strengths in technology and IDEA policy. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this page to save time, then confirm your certification status and tailor your application to special education experience.