Aquatics Instructor

• Locations 333 Long Bridge Dr, Arlington, VA, 22202, US
• Salary $22.10-$49.22 Hourly, range effective July 1st 2026

Arlington County is currently recruiting for Aquatic Recreation Instructors and/or coaching staff for temporary seasonal employment with the Department of Parks & Recreation (DPR) at the Long Bridge Aquatics & Fitness Center.

Arlington County Aquatics is seeking reliable, enthusiastic, positive individuals who can work with children of all ages. Our successful, well-established program offers programs starting from parent and tot classes through preschool and level classes based on the American Red Cross program. Specialty programs include diving, water aerobics, adapted, and beginner, intermediate and advanced adult classes. Arlington Aquatics also offers a competitive swim team (Arlington Aquatic Club) which is an affiliated USA Swimming program for developmental, conditioning and competitive swimmers.

Specific duties include:

• Providing tailored Aquatics instruction to student's needs while evaluating student performance;
• Preparing for class instruction, lesson plans and curriculum;
• Setting up equipment prior to class and securing equipment after class;
• Inspecting equipment and reporting unsafe equipment to supervisor;
• Recommending purchase of supplies and equipment; and/or
• Completing required class paperwork, such as attendance reports.

Currently our program is looking for applicants experienced in any of the following areas:

• Swimming instructors for all ages and skill levels;
• Diving instructors;
• Competitive swim team assistant/coach; and/or
• Adapted Aquatics (participants with disabilities).

Aquatics Recreation Instructor I starts at $22.10 per hour. This entry‑level position is typically assigned beginner‑level classes. Concepts taught are basic and foundational, focusing on skill development and water safety.

Aquatics Recreation Instructor II starts at $26.20 per hour. This position is typically assigned intermediate, or single‑level classes. Concepts taught throughout the course are moderately complex.

Aquatics Recreation Instructor III starts at $30.28 per hour. This position is typically assigned advanced‑level classes. Concepts taught throughout the course are complex. This position may also be assigned to teach therapeutic recreation courses or sections specifically designed for participants with disabilities. Subject matter taught may necessitate additional safety considerations by the instructor. Recreation Instructor III positions are expected to have the knowledge and ability to serve as a substitute instructor for many other classes within the general area of expertise.

Minimums:

Education: High school diploma or GED; plus

Level I: 400 hours of technical experience in Aquatics.

Level II: 800 hours of technical experience in Aquatics, of which at least 50 hours must be as an instructor.

Level III: 1200 hours of technical experience in Aquatics, of which at least 50 hours must be as an instructor.

Substitution: Additional education may be substituted for experience requirement, with each year of post‑high school education substituting for 400 hours of technical experience. However, additional education may not be substituted for the instructing hours requirement.

Desirable: Preference may be given to candidates with the following:

• Previous involvement in a competitive or recreational aquatics program;
• Current or previous aquatics instruction through coaching or teaching; and/or
• Experience working with children of all ages.

Special Requirements

A pre‑employment background check will be conducted. It may include checks of the following: criminal record, driving record, education, professional licensure, and credit history. You may be required to sign a release authorizing the County to obtain your background information.

Additional Information

Work Hours: Hours are dependent on needs of the team but include daytime weekday and a large focus on weekend and afternoon/evening hour shifts.

The official title of these positions is Recreation Instructor I/II/III.

These are temporary occasional positions. Employee is eligible for sick leave.