Student Aquatics Instructor (Recreational Sports)

Definition and Purpose 

Under the supervision of the Coordinator – Aquatics and Safety, the Aquatics Instructors teach a variety of classes offered within the Group Exercise and Instructional Class Program at the Cal Poly Recreation Center.  The staff is responsible for developing individual class lesson plans, being familiar with various styles of class formats offered, supervising class participants, and leading instructional sessions. 

ASI is committed to supporting the aspirations of the University Learning Objectives.  Our employees are expected to make reasoned decisions based on ethics, respect for diversity, and an awareness of issues of sustainability.  Additionally they will work productively as individuals and in groups while communicating effectively.   

Educational Requirements and Qualifying Experience 

• Must be a currently enrolled student at Cal Poly with a minimum of 6 units. Graduate students must carry 4 units. 
• Knowledge of anatomy, physiology, muscular function, exercise program implementation, safe group exercise and instructional procedures and use of related class materials and/or equipment 
• Professional instructor certification in related field or prior training is preferred. 
• Ability to be highly organized and have good planning skills 
• Excellent oral and written communication skills 
• Ability to work with diverse populations and those with special limitations or needs 
• Must be certified in area of expertise class or equivalent  
• Understanding of current trends in area of expertise 
• Previous experience in supervising and meeting participants in an instructional environment 
• Ability to learn new formats 
• Consistent attendance at continuing education workshops, lectures, and conferences 
• Completion of Cal OSHA approved Child Abuse training prior to instructing any programs involving minors. 
• Completion of Live Scan check prior to instructing any programs involving minors. 

Supervisory Responsibilities 

• Supervise class participants 
• Lead exercise/instructional sessions/classes 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

• Maintain familiarity with evacuation plan for work area 
• Attend all mandatory meetings, workshops, retreats, and outreach events 
• Ensure a positive and interactive class environment 
• Provide quality customer service for all staff and customers 
• Maintain prompt hours and follow absence procedures 
• Maintain a working relationship with staff and co-workers 
• Adhere to and enforce all ASI departmental policies and procedures 
• Ensure the safety of all class participants 
• Commitment to student development and leadership 
• Maintain instructional area at all times 
• Track class participant numbers 

Other Duties and Responsibilities 

• The person holding this position is considered a "mandated reporter" under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting
• Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in ASI policy as a condition of their employment. 
• Other duties as assigned. 

Period of Employment 

• Employment with this organization is of an "at will" nature, which means that the employee may resign at any time and ASI may discharge the employee at any time with or without cause. 

Compensation and Hours 

• Hourly Pay Rate: $22.50 per hour while instructing, $16.90 per hour for trainings, meetings, and prep time. 
• Hourly Pay Range: $22.50 per hour – $22.50 per hour while instructing, $16.90 per hour - $16.90 per hour for trainings, meetings, and prep time. 

Requires a minimum of Summer and Fall 2026 work availability.

Position may require morning, late night, weekend, and holiday availability.  

Note: This is a student position

Date revised: 2/19/2024 

The Associated Students, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.