SWIM INSTRUCTOR SPECIALIST JOB DESCRIPTION:
This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The Swim Instructor Specialist maintains a safe, friendly, and encouraging atmosphere for participants by leading a high-quality swim-lessons program. Additionally, this position helps to ensure participant and guardian satisfaction through positive interactions in-person, over the phone and through email communications.

Candidate must be able and willing to work Summer 2026.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF A SWIM INSTRUCTOR SPECIALIST:

• Assists aquatics director in creating and implementing quality swim lesson programs, which includes staff training, preparing program materials, program registrations, returning voicemails/emails, and addressing participant and guardian concerns.
• Prepares all program supplies (i.e floatation devices, toys, etc.) and instructor resources are organized and available for use prior to the start of each swim lesson session.
• Takes appropriate actions to ensure swim instructors complete program records (i.e. attendance, skill records, certificates, etc.) and maintain organization throughout the program.
• Instructs swimming lessons in accordance with the YMCA guidelines, having prepared lesson plans accordingly to help ensure members and program participants achieve their goals.
• Has the ability to respond appropriately to an emergency, while keeping the program participants' safety in mind, while adhering to the safety policies and procedures set by the YMCA of Southern Arizona.
• Engages in active listening with prospects, members, program participants, volunteers and staff in order to build relationships, understand an individual's concerns, goals and interests and take the initiative to ensure they have a positive experience. When the opportunity presents itself, goes above and beyond to resolve the situation immediately.
• Effectively communicates unusual situations and unresolved issues to the appropriate member of leadership ensuring the best interest of all parties involved.
• Initiates appropriate actions to maintain safety, cleanliness and organization throughout the facility, with priority being in the aquatics area.
• Effectively engages with diverse groups of people with different abilities and backgrounds.
• Welcomes all YMCA members, program participants, and guests by implementing customer service best practices. This includes (but is not limited to) adhering to the “ten-foot rule” and maintaining eye contact.
• Provides excellent service to members, guests, and program participants in the Y and on the phone; positively contributing to member experience and retention.
• Responds to challenges with possible solutions in a timely manner while remaining calm and objective.
• Knows, understands, and consistently follows and enforces all YMCA procedures and policies, including: pool rules, safety guidelines, facility access procedures and membership procedures.
• Attends and remains current on all mandatory training and staff meetings.
• Ensures the safety and well-being of consumers by maintaining professional boundaries, completing required abuse risk management training, following procedures for high-risk activities and supervision, reporting suspicious or inappropriate behaviors and policy violations, and adhering to mandated abuse reporting requirements.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

*This is not an exhaustive list of job duties. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may be assigned.

REQUIREMENTS OF A SWIM INSTRUCTOR SPECIALIST:

• At least eighteen (18) years of age.
• One (1) to two (2) years of aquatic experience is preferred.
• Intermediate or advanced knowledge of technology.
• Certifications required: Pool Operator, Swim Instructor, CPR/AED and First Aid. YMCA certifications preferred.
• Ability to take initiative and lead others.
• Excellent interpersonal and problem solving skills.
• Completion of YMCA’s online training upon date of hire.

PART-TIME BENEFITS:

• Free YMCA membership for employee, one additional adult and all the employee's dependents under age 24, living in the household
• 12% Employer funded retirement plan (once eligible)
• One (1) hour of sick time accrued for every 30 hours worked (can use up to 40 hours per year)
• 50% off YMCA of Southern Arizona programs (including personal training packages, sports leagues, camp registration, child care, and more!)
• Professional training

OUR YMCA CULTURE:

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day.  We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.

This job announcement is not intended to be inclusive of all functions, responsibilities and qualifications associated with the position, however, representative of the essential job functions and typical criteria considered necessary to successfully perform the position.