Swim Instructor

Department: Aquatics

Reports To: Aquatic Manager

FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt

Effective Date: 04/2026

GENERAL PURPOSE:

Under the direction of the Aquatic Manager, effectively teach swimming skills and water safety to individuals ages six (6) months to adult.  This position is responsible for ensuring the safety of all classes, completing the appropriate records, and providing an enjoyable environment for students to learn.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The following duties are not intended to serve as a comprehensive list of all duties performed by the individual in this classification, only a representative summary of the primary duties and responsibilities.  Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed and may be required to perform additional, position-specific duties as assigned.

• Ensure a comfortable and safe environment for students to learn
• Teach swim lessons following the Belton Parks & Recreation curriculum standards
• Communicate effectively with parents/guardians regarding student progress, cancellations, or class updates
• Must be available for all days and times within an entire instruction session
• Complete lesson plans for substitute instructor along with pertinent emergency information and procedures
• Monitor the skills of all students throughout the class and record progress for future placement
• Attend appropriate training sessions and staff meetings as scheduled
• Maintain deck cleanliness and ensure equipment is stored neatly and properly
• Perform other related duties as requested or assigned by the Assistant Aquatic Manager or Aquatic Manager
• Lifeguard certification preferred.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Required knowledge, skills, and abilities:

• Ability to work and relate well with children (ages 6 months -18 years old)
• Ability to walk and stand for long periods of time.
• Ability to work independently and to complete daily activities according to work schedule.
• Provide daily upkeep and cleaning of all Aquatic Center areas.
• Ability to understand and follow written and oral instructions.

Education and Experience:

• Minimum age of 15 years old.
• American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification preferred.
• American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor (WSI) – preferred.
• Previous swim experience preferred. Training provided.
• Must be able to pass a background check and drug test

Physical Requirements:

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.

• The employee frequently is required to stand and walk on wet pool deck surfaces; enter, exit, and move throughout the pool; and use hands to guide swimmers, handle teaching equipment, or operate safety tools.
• The employee is occasionally required to sit; balance while in shallow or deep water; stoop or kneel to assist young children; and communicate clearly in a loud, humid aquatic environment.
• The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, including lifting or supporting participants during instruction or emergency situations.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus to monitor swimmers, read safety signage, and observe activity across the pool area.
• Must maintain a level of physical conditioning appropriate for working in and around the water, which may include prolonged periods in the pool, high levels of interaction with participants, and work during irregular hours

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee occasionally works near moving mechanical parts.
• The employee occasionally works in highs, precarious places and is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, fumes or airborne particles, and toxic chemicals.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually relatively quiet during indoor shift operations.
• Work is performed in and around an indoor/outdoor swimming pool environment, which includes warm, humid conditions and regular exposure to water, pool deck surfaces, and the sun.
• The employee frequently interacts with children, families, and team members in a positive, fast-paced, and energetic setting.
• The employee may work with typical pool related equipment such as kickboards, teaching aids, and safety gear.
• Occasional exposure to pool chemicals may occur, but these are stored and handled according to standard safety procedures.
• Noise levels are generally moderate, consistent with an active aquatic environment.