Camp Kirkwood Swim Instructor

POSITION SUMMARY:

YMCA Camp Kirkwood is seeking for dedicated and enthusiastic individuals to serve as a Camp Kirkwood Swim Instructor. We aim to find those who are passionate about keeping people safe by teaching swim lessons and creating unforgettable aquatic adventures. The Y is a leading nonprofit for strengthening community, and the nation's larger provider of swim lessons to increase skill and safety in and around water. This position provides direct leadership, instruction and motivation for students in swimming classes. This job is perfect for strong swimmers who love the water and want to make a difference while having a great time. Join our camp team and make a lasting impact every time you step on the stand.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Ensure the safety of all participants by maintaining active supervision and enforcing pool rules
• Teach swim lessons using YMCA of the USA curriculum, adapting instruction to different ages and skill levels
• Create a positive, inclusive, and engaging learning environment that builds confidence and supports skill development
• Assess participant abilities, track progress, and provide clear feedback to swimmers and parents/guardians
• Prepare and deliver organized lessons, including setting up equipment and managing class time effectively
• Communicate professionally with participants, families, and aquatics staff
• Maintain required certifications (CPR, First Aid, AED, Swim Instructor) and follow YMCA policies and procedures
• Support overall aquatics operations, including cleanliness, special events, and teamwork with staff
• Assist with camper supervision and other duties as assigned by leadership.

OUR CULTURE:  Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. At the Y, we strive to live our purpose of strengthening communities with intention and purpose every day. We welcome all: we are open to everyone. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We nurture: we support you on your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger, beginning with you. 

YMCA PART-TIME BENEFITS OVERVIEW:  At the YMCA, we invest in our people so they can better serve our communities. Our part-time employees enjoy a supportive, inclusive work environment with valuable benefits that reflect our mission and core values. 

• Complimentary YMCA Membership 
• Flexible Scheduling
• Professional Development
• Retirement Benefits
• Employee Resource Groups 

YMCA COMPETENCIES (Leader):

Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Ys values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruit volunteers and build effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fundraising.

Collaboration: Works effectively with people of diverse backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing other

Operational Effectiveness: Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another. Embraces innovative approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience.

Establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans of work, and actively participates in meetings. Follows budgeting policies and procedures and reports for all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members.

Personal Growth: Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change and seek opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths and limitations and how they impact relationships. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.

The YMCA of Southeastern NC does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, faith, gender, pregnancy, national origin, age, disability, sexual preference, gender identity, veteran status, citizenship status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law, except where a bona fide occupational qualification applies. 

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum age of 16.
• Certifications: CPR for the Professional Rescuer, AED, Basic First Aid certification.
• YMCA Swim Instructor Certification, American Red Cross WSI or equivalent.
• Ability to maintain certification-level of physical and mental readiness.
• Must demonstrate swim instructor skills in accordance with YMCA standards.
• Strong communication, teamwork, and decision-making skills
• Friendly and Approachable: You know how to keep things safe while ensuring everyone has a great time.
• Previous camp or youth leadership experience a plus

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Sufficient physical strength and agility to carry out essential duties.
• Ability to set up and work on ladders and platforms at heights up to 30 feet. 
• Ability to instruct and observe participants in proper stroke techniques.
• Ability to lift equipment and to lift a small to average size child.
• Ability to clean equipment and operate motorized equipment as needed.

YMCA SAFETY REQUIREMENTS:
CPR & First Aid – Must be able to complete and maintain certification in CPR and First Aid; able to assist individuals in need until professional help arrives.

Emergency Response – Ability to quickly identify emergency situations (medical, fire, environmental, etc.) and respond appropriately following established procedures.

Incident Management – Required to report all safety incidents and hazards immediately and accurately to supervisors.

Safe Environment – Commitment to maintaining a safe, clean, and hazard-free environment for all staff, members, and participants.

Physical Readiness – Must be able to perform physical tasks related to safety, including assisting individuals of various ages and physical abilities.

Compliance – Follow all YMCA safety protocols, OSHA standards, and state/local regulations as applicable. 

Reasonable Accommodation Statement: The YMCA provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applicable state and local laws. If you require accommodation to complete the application process or to perform essential job functions, please contact Human Resources.  

JOB TITLE: CAMP KIRKWOOD SWIM INSTRUCTOR

LOCATION: CAMP KIRKWOOD 

POSITION TYPE: Part Time , Seasonal

FLSA: Non-Exempt 

PAY RATE:  $14.00 - $16.50/ Hour 

REVISION DATE: 4/30/2026

Equal Opportunity Employer: The YMCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or veteran status. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve.