Safety Water; SAW Program Assistant

Safety Around Water (SAW) Program Assistant

Job Summary: As a Safety Around Water (SAW) Program Assistant at the YMCA, you will guide second‑grade students in the Safety Around Water Program, teaching basic swimming skills and water safety concepts in a group‑based class. Students learn to identify safe swimming areas, practice foundational skills, and build confidence.

• Lead and facilitate group Safety Around Water classes for 2nd grade students
• Provide in‑water instruction and supervision for multiple students at a time (not 1:1 instruction)
• Teach basic swim skills and fundamental water safety concepts
• Support student engagement and safety throughout each class
• Prepare and organize supplies and equipment prior to sessions
• Assist with basic administrative and setup tasks
• Maintain a positive, encouraging atmosphere for all participants
• Other duties as assigned

• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Must be certified in current CPR‑PR, AED, First Aid within 60 days
• Comfortable leading group instruction in the water with children
• Ability to follow safety protocols
• Ability to confidently engage a class of students
• Experience working with youth or aquatic programs preferred
• CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to obtain (training may be provided)
• Exercises mature judgments and sound decision‑making
• Dependable, punctual and flexible; willing to work various shifts including weekends and holidays
• Friendly and professional demeanor when interacting with others, promoting a positive and safe environment

• Work environment may be noisy, with pool activity sounds
• Exposure to pool chemicals such as chlorine is common
• Temperatures are controlled indoors but may be humid due to the pool environment
• Requires sufficient strength, agility, and mobility to supervise activities
• Ability to spend time in the pool, lead lessons, and provide hands‑on assistance
• Strong swimming skills and ability to demonstrate various strokes for students
• Ability to assist less‑skilled swimmers, requiring physical strength
• Good hand‑eye coordination and fine motor skills to demonstrate techniques
• Highly observant to ensure safety; recognition of risks and prompt response
• Good vision and hearing are necessary for monitoring swimmers and instruction
• Must be able to bend, kneel, crouch, or reach in various positions to assist swimmers, provide first aid, or perform rescues
• Ability to climb ladders and steps

Entry level

Full‑time

Management and Manufacturing

Wellness and Fitness Services