Autism Swims Instructor

Dive into a fulfilling career as a Part-Time Autism Swim Instructor with SwimRVA in Richmond, VA! This is your chance to make a splash by teaching children with autism the joy of swimming in a supportive, onsite environment. Imagine the smiles and laughter as you guide little ones through their swimming journey while fostering connections and building their confidence in the water. With a starting competitive pay rate of $28.50 per hour, you’ll be rewarded for your passion and dedication. Plus, you’ll be part of a mission-driven team that's committed to making a positive difference in the lives of children.

You can get great benefits such as Flexible Schedules, Multiple locations, Free employee facility membership to multiple locations, 25% off program fees for your family (yourself and your dependents), and and Free SwimRVA Hammerheads (adult swimming) membership. Ready to turn your love for water and teaching into a meaningful experience? Join us in creating unforgettable moments and helping every child thrive!

A little about SwimRVA

The mission of SwimRVA is to elevate swimming in the Richmond region making water safety and aquatic fitness more accessible to all. SwimRVA believes our strength and impact is driven by our people. We invest in the growth and development of our team members in order to grow our impact.

What's your day like?

As a Part-Time Autism Swim Instructor at SwimRVA, you'll create a dynamic, safe, and supportive aquatic classroom environment where every child feels comfortable and confident in the water. You’ll work one-on-one or in small groups, teaching individualized lessons tailored to the sensory and behavioral needs of each swimmer. Your focus will be on vital skills such as water entry and exit, breath control, and basic survival techniques, all while implementing strategies to manage sensory needs through specialized equipment and environmental adjustments. You'll approach behavioral challenges with patience and positive reinforcement, ensuring a nurturing atmosphere. Plus, you’ll walk children safely between their meeting location and their parents when needed.

You'll also assess participants' swimming skills for optimal placement and provide consistent updates to families, fostering trust and encouraging each swimmer's progress. Join us in making a meaningful impact on the lives of these amazing children!

Are you a good fit for this Autism Swims Instructor job?

To thrive as a Part-Time Autism Swim Instructor at SwimRVA, certain skills are essential. First and foremost, you must possess the ability to work and relate well with individuals with autism, demonstrating patience and a genuine passion for their growth and development. Being observant is key; you'll need to identify sensory and behavioral needs, tailoring your lesson plans and adjusting the environment to ensure each swimmer's success. While a high school diploma is preferred, completion of SwimRVA's Autism Swims Training will equip you with the necessary techniques for effective instruction.

Certifications in First Aid, CPR, and AED for both adults and children are required but can be obtained within 30 days of hire. Previous experience working with children with autism or related fields, along with swimming and swim instruction experience, will give you the edge needed to provide a supportive and enriching aquatic experience. Join us in making waves of positive change!

Knowledge and skills required for the position are:

• Ability to work and relate well with individuals with autism


• Patience, observant, and passionate about working with individuals with autism


• Ability to identify sensory and behavioral needs


• Implement individualized lesson plans and and adjust the environment to help the swimmer succeed


• High School diploma - preferred


• First Aid CPR and AED for Adult and Child – required (can be obtained within 30 days of hire)


• Experience in working with children with autism or related experience preferred


• Swimming experience preferred


• Swim instruction experience preferred

Your next step

Applying for this position is a walk in the park if you feel it's a good fit for you. Best of luck!