Swim Instructors

The Shaw JCC is a community center in Akron offering aquatics, fitness, and childcare services. Our aquatic program is second to none, thanks to our exceptional staff!

We are looking for energetic, patient, and safety-minded individual Swim Lesson Instructors to teach swimming lessons to children of all ages and skill levels. This ranges from 6 months old (who participate in Parent + Child classes), to approx. 14 years old. This role is perfect for someone who loves working with kids, enjoys being in the water, and wants to help children build confidence, safety awareness, and a lifelong love of swimming. 

We offer Group Lessons (1:5 instructor to student ratio) on a mix of weekend mornings and weekday nights, depending on the season. Opportunities for private and semi-private lessons with flexible scheduling are also part of this job. Opportunities available for teaching adults as well.

Key Responsibilities

• Teach children’s swim lessons following American Red Cross Learn-to-Swim®guidelines
  • Skills are outlined and build on past progress and experiences, so there is a planning guide to assist you with your lesson plans
• Create a fun, encouraging, and safe learning environment for young swimmers
• Use age-appropriate teaching techniques, games, and positive reinforcement
• Adapt lessons to meet individual learning needs and comfort levels
• Track attendance and skill progression
• Communicate clearly and kindly with parents/guardians about progress and goals
• Enforce pool rules and water safety procedures 

Physical Requirements

• Ability to swim and demonstrate swim skills for children
• Ability to lift or assist young swimmers in and out of the water as needed
• Ability to work in a warm, humid pool environment

Qualifications

• Preferred but not required American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor (WSI) certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Current CPR/AED and First Aid certification
• Experience working with children (teaching, coaching, childcare, camps, etc.) preferred
• Patient, enthusiastic, and dependable
• Strong communication and classroom-management skills
• Ability to work well in a team-based environment