Natatorium Instructor

Title: Natatorium Instructor

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS: Under general supervision, responsible for planning, organizing and conducting aquatic programs at beaches and pools in the Park District. Supervises a staff that may include Natatorium Instructors, Lifeguard Captain, Senior Lifeguards and Lifeguards performing beach and pool safety activities and instruction at a Park District facility. Performs related duties as required.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES:

• Supervises a staff performing life guarding and aquatic programming activities at Park District swimming pools and/or beach locations. 


• Establishes and adjusts work schedules for staff. 


• Observes and corrects hazardous situations and behaviors.


• Uses lifesaving techniques to respond to emergencies and life-threatening situations.


• Administers first aid, CPR, AED and oxygen as needed. 


• Inspects pools for cleanliness and safe operation. 


• Uses the work order system to request maintenance and repairs for facilities. 


• Implements a course curriculum for instruction of aquatic sports, games and skills development.


• Assists in planning and developing course curriculums. 


• Provides instruction and supervision for Park District patron in developing aquatic skills and participating in aquatic sports and games. 


• Provides instruction in the rules and/or strategies of aquatic team sports, individual sports and conditioning. 


• Officiate team and individual sports. 


• Conducts local swim meets and aquatic demonstrations.


• Develops and maintains a positive relationship and open channel of communication with participants, parents, volunteers and the community.


• Assists in the coordination of citywide aquatic special events, meets and other competitions.


• Attends and conducts workshops and in-service training seminars. 


• Provides instruction and demonstrates proper techniques and skills for lifesaving and related rescue activities. 


• May provide training for employees of other local and state agencies. 


• Maintains records and prepares reports.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 

Training and Experience: Completion of 60 credit hours from an accredited College or University in Health, Physical Education, Recreation or related field is recommended. A minimum of 18 months of full-time aquatic experience, which included at least 9 months of instructional/coaching experience is also required. In addition, 2 full seasons of beach experience is recommended to meet the minimum qualifications for this position. Equivalent combination of education and experience may also satisfy the minimum requirements for this position.

Certification Requirements: Candidates must possess the following valid certifications from the American Red Cross or other nationally recognized organization at time of hire: 

• Water Safety Instructor 


• Lifeguard Instructor


• CPR and First Aid Instructor


• In addition, certification in basic scuba diving, power boating, water polo and swimming officiating is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Thorough knowledge of water safety methods and techniques related to beach locations and pool facilities. 


• Knowledge of all competitive swimming and safety strokes.


• Effective oral and written communication skills. 


• Skill in teaching aquatic techniques. 


• Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations. 


• Ability to supervise staff responsible for enforcing water safety standards. 


• Ability to evaluate skill levels and teaches competitive and recreational aquatic activities accordingly. 


• Ability to pass physical skills test required of seasonal lifeguards.

As a part-time Chicago Park District employee in a position covered by the District’s Agreement with SEIU Local 73, eligible employees receive a comprehensive benefits package including:

•  +$1/hour on 1/1/2027


• 1 day of personal leave at the commencement of each quarter, accrued on a pro rata basis.


• 2 days of sick leave at the commencement of each quarter, accrued on a pro rata basis.


• After one year of employment, employees who work 1040 hours or more in the previous year are typically eligible for between 7-10 workdays of paid vacation time annually (additional time after first 5 years of employment).


• 12 weeks of paid parental leave (upon meeting FMLA eligibility)


• Pension plan through the Park Employees' and Retirement Board Employees' Annuity and Benefit Fund, a system covered by the State of Illinois' Reciprocal Act.


• Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program eligibility.


• Free Admission to most Chicago Museums.

Pay Rate: $26.63 per hour 

Union:  SEIU Local 73     Career Service             EEO: Paraprofessional                     FLSA:  Non-Exempt