Swim Instructor - Catonsville

Overwhelmingly, people who decide they want to be a part of the Y in Central Maryland tell us they do so because it reflects their values and a conscious decision, they’ve made about how they choose to live their lives. The happiest and most fulfilled Y associates are those who are motivated to help others and who want to be a part of something larger than themselves.

If this speaks to your heart, then we invite you to join our team. Be a part of a charitable, mission-driven organization that works for individual and community well-being for all, for a better us. At the Y in Central Maryland, we offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth.

Enjoy flexible schedules, competitive pay, and generous paid time off, alongside medical, dental and vision benefits, as well as dependent care FSA. We offer a generous employer contribution to the Y retirement fund, and opportunities for career advancement. Our commitment to fostering a positive work environment means you'll have access to training and development programs that align with our mission to empower individuals and strengthen communities.

Join us and bring your passion to a fulfilling career where you can truly make a difference! $200 Sign-On Bonus Details Below* How This Role Contributes to the Y’s Mission As a Swim Instructor, you will help swimmers build confidence, develop essential water-safety skills, and progress in their swimming abilities.

You will lead safe, engaging lessons using the Y’s curriculum while creating a supportive and inclusive environment for swimmers of varying ages and skill levels. This Work Is Right for You If You: Enjoy teaching and encouraging others. Are comfortable working in and around the water. Can communicate clearly with swimmers and families.

Adapt your instruction to different ages, abilities, and learning needs. Create a safe, positive, and engaging learning environment. Are dependable and available to work evenings and weekends.

Essential Functions

Teach swim lessons using the Y’s curriculum and progression standards. Adapt instruction to meet individual and group needs. Actively supervise swimmers and enforce pool-safety rules. Assess swimmer abilities and support appropriate level progression. Provide clear demonstrations, instruction, and positive feedback. Prepare and properly store lesson equipment.

Maintain attendance and required program records. Communicate professionally with participants, families, and Y associates. Coordinate qualified substitute coverage and provide lesson plans when an absence is necessary. Promote Y swim programs and encourage continued participant development. Maintain a clean, safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment.

Model the Y’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

Qualifications

Prior swim-instruction or coaching experience preferred. Current CPR/AED and First Aid certification. Oxygen Administration certification or ability to obtain it within 30 days of hire. Lifeguard certification preferred. Ability to successfully complete the Y in Central Maryland swim test. Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends.

Completion of Y Swim Lesson Instructor certification and all required training. Completion of required new-associate training, including Child Abuse Prevention, before the first assigned shift. $200 Sign-On and Training Bonus* New Swim Instructors may be eligible for a $200 bonus by meeting all of the following requirements: Be hired and complete onboarding before or during the Winter Session, which ends February 21, 2027.

Complete Y Swim Lesson Instructor certification and all required training. Complete required class shadowing. Shadowing may begin during Fall II and continue as needed based on demonstrated readiness. Previous swim-instruction or coaching experience may shorten the shadowing period. Receive clearance to teach swim lessons independently after completing all training requirements.

Be scheduled to independently teach at least six group swim-lesson classes during Spring I, beginning March 1, 2027. The bonus will be processed after training, shadowing, clearance, and the qualifying Spring I teaching schedule are verified. The bonus is subject to applicable payroll withholdings.

Compensation

and Benefits The anticipated pay range for this position is $16–$20 per hour. Placement within the range will be based on relevant experience, education, qualifications, and internal equity. All Y associates agree to abide by The Code of Conduct with Youth that sets clear expectations for associates and volunteers to ensure a safe and respectful environment for young people.

It emphasizes treating youth with respect and fairness, avoiding inappropriate physical or verbal interactions, and adhering to established standards of affection. The policy strictly prohibits any form of abuse, bullying, or harassment and mandates the reporting of suspected mistreatment. Additionally, associates and volunteers must complete training on child abuse prevention and comply with legal reporting requirements to safeguard youth.