Swim Lesson Instructor - Palisades High School: Steele Creek YMCA

The Swim Lesson Instructor is responsible for providing safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate swim instruction to participants of all ages and skill levels. This role ensures a positive learning environment, fosters water safety awareness, and supports the YMCA’s commitment to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

Culture Statement: 

The culture of the Y is rooted in our Christian mission and core principles. We strive every day to collectively embody our purpose to love, serve and transform lives. Every day we show up to Lead with Love and Serve with Purpose.

We Love unconditionally – showing genuine care and concern for everyone, making each interaction meaningful and personal and ensuring every person feels valued, seen and welcomed. We elevate Hope – promoting optimism by offering encouragement and practical solutions to challenges. We act with Care & Compassion – listening attentively without judgment, responding with empathy, and creating a sense of belonging by uplifting and supporting those around us. We demonstrate Generosity – sharing our time, skills, and resources freely and with joy.

We walk in Grace – showing patience and kindness, even in difficult moments. We ignite Faith – staying grounded in our mission, principles and purpose, inspiring others to trust in what is possible. Demonstrating consistency in our actions, helping others see how their efforts align with a greater purpose. We treasure Honesty – communicating openly and truthfully, admitting mistakes when they occur, and honoring commitments. We honor Humility – leading with a servant's heart by prioritizing the needs of others above our own.

We live with Joy – celebrating small and big wins alike, inspiring connection and shared joy. We offer Respect – addressing everyone by name and honoring diverse perspectives and backgrounds. We value Responsibility – performing every task timely with diligence and excellence and holding ourselves accountable by openly evaluating our performance. We engage in Service – going above and beyond in serving others by anticipating needs and delivering exceptional experiences.

Essential Functions:

• Plan and lead structured swim lessons following YMCA guidelines and best practices.
• Create a positive and inclusive environment that encourages learning and skill development.
• Assess swimmers' abilities and provide individualized feedback to support progress.
• Ensure participant safety by maintaining constant supervision and enforcing pool rules.
• Communicate effectively with parents/guardians regarding lesson progress and expectations.
• Adapt teaching methods to accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities.
• Assist in maintaining pool equipment and ensuring a clean, safe, and organized aquatic area.
• Support YMCA aquatic programs and special events as needed.
• Respond promptly to any participant concerns, incidents, or emergencies.
• Uphold the YMCA mission and core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
Performs other duties and tasks as assigned by leadership.

Required Qualifications:

• Strong swimming ability and knowledge of fundamental swim strokes and techniques.
• Ability to engage and motivate swimmers of all ages and skill levels.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Must be comfortable working in and around water for extended periods.
• Availability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends.
• Commitment to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all participants.
• Passion for youth development, fitness, and community engagement.
All YMCA team members are expected to maintain a current and active status for all safety, risk, and
programming certifications defined by the YMCA of Greater Charlotte.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in swim instruction, coaching, or competitive swimming preferred.
• Knowledge of water safety practices and YMCA swim program curriculum.

Working Conditions:

• Indoor or outdoor pool environment with warm, humid conditions.
• Physically active role requiring standing, swimming, bending, and lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Exposure to pool chemicals and chlorinated water.
• Frequent engagement with children, families, and staff in a dynamic setting.
• Must be able to maintain focus and supervision for extended periods. 

Competencies:

1 ENGAGING COMMUNITY: Builds bridges with others in the community to ensure the Y’s work is
community-focused and welcoming of all, providing community benefit
2 FUNCTIONAL EXPERTISE: Executes superior technical skills for the role
3 COMMUNICATION & INFLUENCE: Listens and expresses self effectively and in a way that engages, inspires, and builds commitment to the Y’s cause
4 EMOTIONAL MATURITY: Demonstrates ability to understand and manage emotions effectively in all situations.