Swim Instructor

## Description

**MISSION:**

The mission of the YMCA of the Foothills is to organize, develop, finance, and conduct programs for an association of persons of all ages that will, by putting Christian principles into practice, enrich the quality of their lives spiritually, mentally, physically and socially.

**POSITION SUMMARY:**

The SWIM INSTRUCTOR is responsible for carrying out variety of tactics and programs that are aligned with the Association’s strategic direction. The staff member will work effectively with program participants in meaningful and safe swim programs and activities that allow and provide for the best possible experience for youth focused on YMCA core values: honesty, respect, responsibility, and caring.

**ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:**

• Instructs swimming lessons in accordance with YMCA guidelines, having prepared lesson plans accordingly. Maintains order in their swim lessons class and where possible foresees trouble and takes steps to prevent it.
• Must stay in accordance with a 1:8 ratio
• Maintains records as required (i.e.attendance, progress reports, etc.) and tracks progress of class participants using appropriate skill sheets. Informs supervisor of any changes/additions to rosters immediately. Submits rosters to supervisor at the conclusion of each session.
• Organizes and puts away needed class equipment. Reports damaged equipment.
• Work as a member of a team to design and implement swim related events and programs in alignment with the Associations strategic plan.
• Follows YMCA policies and procedures, including those related to medical and disciplinary situations, child abuse prevention, emergencies, dress guidelines, and cleanliness standards. Completes incident and accident reports as necessary.
• Responds immediately to all emergency situations using proper procedures/techniques. Performs a safe rescue for a participant in trouble and administers the necessary First Aid and completes reports.
• Maintains tidiness of pool and deck area (including gutters) during shift- Checks for band-aids, tissues, hair, etc. on deck and in drains and filter baskets. Never leaves equipment on deck after classes. Equipment must always be stacked neatly to avoid any accidents.
• Maintains positive relations and rapport with members, staff and volunteers at all times. Builds effective, authentic relationships with students and parents; helps them connect with each other and the YMCA. Encourages parent involvement and identifies potential volunteers. Communicates proper placement to parents regularly.
• Supports other staff and volunteers through good communications skills.
• Attends staff meetings and trainings as scheduled and required
• Act as representative of the YMCA of the Foothills at all times. Conveys information on aquatics programs and schedules and as appropriate refers students and parents to other programs.
• Other duties as assigned.

**YMCA COMPETENCIES :**

*Mission Advancement:* Accepts and demonstrates the Y’s values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fund-raising.

*Collaboration:* Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view, and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others.

*Operational Effectiveness**:* Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience. Establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work and actively participates in meetings. Follows budgeting policies and procedures, and reports all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members.

*Personal Growth**:* Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change, and seeks opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths and limitations and how they impact relationships. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.

## Qualifications

**QUALIFICATIONS**

• One (1) year previous experience in teaching swim lessons.
• Minimum age 16 years old.
• CERTIFICATIONS:
• Y Swim Lesson Instructor or must obtain within 90 days of position acceptance
• Must be able to demonstrate swim instructor skills in accordance with YMCA standards.
• YMCA Aquatic Safety Assistant (YASA), ARC/ASHI
• CPRO or AHA BLS-C, First Aid, AED
• O2
• Blood Borne Pathogens,
• Fundamentals of Teaching YMCA Swim Lessons and two of the following:
• Parent/Child Instructor or
• Preschool Instructor or
• Youth/Adult Instructor
• Must have clearance through fingerprinting, drug testing, criminal records and child abuse index check.
• Must be able to model the core values; Caring, Respect, Responsibility, and Honesty.
• Ability to follow and accept instruction, and relate well with peers.
• Must have commitment to the mission and cause of the YMCA and uphold its values and ethics.
• Ability to work effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions and perceptions