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The YMCA of Metropolitan Washington is one of the largest nonprofits in the DC area. The Y serves as an anchor in the community, offering programs and services focused on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
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Position: Swim Instructor (Basic, Intermediate & Advance)   Starting Range: $17.95-$18.50
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We invite you to join us in this important work—develop your skills, realize your leadership potential, and discover a career that is more than just a job. As part of a long-standing and reputable organization that helped pioneer many aquatic programs, you will gain valuable experience, enjoy flexible part-time and full-time scheduling, and become part of a supportive, high-performing team.
Join a mission-driven team where you can grow your skills, develop leadership experience, and make a real impact every day.
About the Role
The Swim Instructor is responsible for teaching safe and effective swim lessons while maintaining a positive, structured, and engaging learning environment. Instructors ensure participant safety, deliver lesson plans, track progress, and communicate effectively with swimmers and families.
Key Responsibilities
- Teach group and private swim lessons (Basic, Intermediate, Advanced levels)
- Maintain safety, discipline, and class control at all times
- Arrive at least 5 minutes before class start time with materials prepared
- Develop and follow lesson plans; provide substitute plans when needed
- Track attendance, skill progression, and student evaluations
- Assess stroke technique and recommend level advancement when appropriate
- Maintain clean and organized instructional areas and equipment
- Communicate professionally with participants, parents, and staff
- Attend staff meetings and complete additional duties as assigned
Qualifications
Basic Instructor
- Must be 16+ years old
- CPR and First Aid certification required
- Must obtain YMCA Swim Lesson Certification within 9 months
- Strong communication skills and positive attitude
Intermediate Instructor
- Must be 17+ years old
- Minimum 2 years of swim instruction experience
- CPR and First Aid certification required
- Must hold at least one swim instruction certification (YMCA, Red Cross WSI, or equivalent)
Advanced Instructor
- Must be 18+ years old
- Minimum 4 years of aquatics teaching experience
- CPR and First Aid certification required
- Must hold at least two aquatics or swim instruction certifications
Physical Requirements / Working Conditions
- Must meet YMCA aquatic safety requirements (YASA standards)
- Ability to lift up to 40 lbs
- Ability to swim 500 yards
- Must be able to actively instruct in-water
- Ability to monitor and respond to participants in distress
Benefits
YMCA employees enjoy competitive benefits and exclusive discounts.
Additional benefits include:
- 10% employer-funded retirement plan (vesting after 2 years or 1,000 hours/year)
- 403(b) savings plan
- Affordable healthcare coverage
- Free YMCA membership
- Paid time off and sick leave
- Professional development opportunities
The YMCA of Metropolitan Washington is an equal opportunity employer committed to fairness, inclusion, and respect in the workplace
Learn more about this Employer on their Career Site
