JR. Swim Instructor – Chinatown Y

Careers by Empowering Futures, Building Communities
Imagine going to work each day knowing that your efforts positively impact individuals and
communities. As a global movement and the nation’s leading nonprofit organization
dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and
social responsibility, the YMCA of Greater San Francisco offers more than just a job—we
offer a career with a future and the opportunity to make a lasting difference in your
community. At the Y, you can uncover your passion and build a lifelong career addressing
some of the nation’s most pressing social issues.

Our Organizational Culture
At the YMCA of Greater San Francisco , we are committed to demonstrating values that aim
to building strong communities where you can Be, Belong and Become. With Truth &
Courage, we strive to understand and act on individual and societal truths. We ensure a
safe and inclusive environment with Authenticity & Accessibility, allowing everyone to
participate according to their needs. Our approach is Dependable & Creative, as we
respond to community needs through strong partnerships. Above all, we embody Dignity &
Empathy, treating everyone with respect and compassion, and recognizing the inherent
dignity in all individuals.

Position Summary
The Jr. Swim Instructor provides swim lesson instruction to a diverse group of participants
using YMCA principles and program models. Instructors are expected to demonstrate the
YMCA Mission and adhere to program guidelines.
National YMCA Swim Program certifications must be obtained within 90 days or at the next
available training session.

Job Responsibilities
Safety and Supervision

• Teach with a fellow Swim Instructor who is at least 18 years old at all times.

• Ensure the safety of all participants throughout the lesson by maintaining constant
supervision and adhering to safety protocols.

• Teach from in the water unless otherwise directed by the supervisor to teach from
the deck.

• Know and follow all emergency procedures, providing clear directions and taking
responsibility for participants in the event of an emergency. Complete incident
reports as necessary.
Relationship Building and Inclusion

• Build positive, respectful, and authentic relationships with participants and their
families, fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment.

• Encourage parent involvement as appropriate.

• Create an inclusive environment by greeting participants and learning their names to
promote a sense of belonging.
Teaching and Program Adherence

• Follow YMCA Swim Program guidelines and national policies while adapting to meet
the diverse needs of participants, helping them develop confidence and improve
swim skills.
Professionalism and Preparedness

• Maintain a professional appearance and demeanor at all times, upholding the values
of the YMCA.

• Arrive on deck and be prepared to teach by the scheduled start time, ensuring all
equipment is set up before the session begins.

• Clean up equipment after class and report any damaged or missing items to the
supervisor.
Documentation and Record Keeping

• Greet participants, take attendance, and document their progress at the end of each
session to support their development.

• Complete all necessary paperwork, such as timecards, incident reports, and progress
reports, accurately and in a timely manner.
Attendance and Commitment

• Commit to attending at least 80% of scheduled group lesson sessions and arrange
for a qualified substitute in advance for any planned absences, with supervisor
approval.

• Be available during Safety Around Water Week, typically held during the local school
district’s spring break (late March or April).

Qualifications

• Minimum 16 years old

• Must be available early mornings, afternoons, and/or weekends

• Ability to work effectively with members, staff and volunteers

• Current certifications in CPR/AED, First Aid, Emergency Oxygen, American Red Cross
Swim Lesson Instructor, or the ability to obtain within 30 days or upon the first
available class.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bilingual in Spanish, Cantonese, Mandarin, or other languages.

Work Environment & Physical Demands
The Jr. Swim Instructor position involves working in an…