NEMO Swim Instructor

GENERAL FUNCTION

This position supports the work of the YMCA, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The Swim Instructor maintains a supportive, positive atmosphere that welcomes and respects all individuals and provides direct leadership, instruction and motivation for students in swim classes.

KNOW-HOW

A qualified candidate must possess the following:

• At least 16 years of age
• Must have confidence and experience working with a variety of disabilities and ages
• Must be able to adapt or modify activities, follow written lesson plans, and be able to work independently
• Must possess good safety awareness, judgment, and problem-solving skills
• Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED certification, or able to obtain within 90 days (the Y provides this monthly training)
• Must be able to demonstrate swim instructor skills in accordance with YMCA standards

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions:

• Ability to instruct and observe participants in proper water safety skills
• Ability to lift equipment and to lift a small to average size child

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

• Instructs swimming lessons in accordance with YMCA guidelines, having prepared lesson plans accordingly using our progress trackers, and supports members and program participants in achieving their goals
• Develops and maintains positive relationships with members or program participants and colleagues at all levels of the organization; helps families connect with each other and the YMCA; and encourages parent or caregiver involvement.
• Maintains records as required (i.e. attendance, progress reports).
• Follows all YMCA policies, rules, regulations and procedures, including emergency and safety procedures.
• Completes incident and accident reports as necessary.
• Organizes and puts away needed class equipment.
• Reports damaged equipment.
• Design and implement adaptive swim lesson plans, personalized to the needs of the student.
• Adapt activities as needed and appropriate.
• Communicate effectively with staff, participants, and parents.
• Attend staff orientation, training and meetings as directed.
• Follow all YMCA policies and procedures as appropriate to assignment.

PSYCHOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS

• Must be able to understand the needs of the person with a disability and adapt activities to enable participation.
• Must be able to positively relate with people who are significantly impacted by their disability or who display challenging behavior.
• Ability to respond to problem situations in a mature manner and within the policies and procedures of the YMCA.

BENEFITS

• Free YMCA membership
• Discount on YMCA programs and merchandise
• 403(b) and 401(a) (upon eligibility)
• Paid time off in conjunction with IL Paid Leave for All Workers Act