Temporary Part-Time Youth Swim Instructor (American Red Cross Certified or YMCA of USA Certified)

OVERVIEW

Established in 2003, Mercy Street exists to cultivate mutually transforming relationships with inner-city youth through Christian mentorship. Our vision is to create a multicultural, multiethnic, multigenerational movement of God’s people that work together for his glory and the good of the city and beyond. Our outreach efforts are through sports, mentoring, youth leadership initiatives, K-5 after-school enrichment programming, and summer day camp for K-5 students in West and South Dallas.

The Temporary Part-Time Youth Swim Instructor is responsible for teaching safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate swim lessons to children and youth of varying skill levels. The instructor will follow Mercy Street Learn-to-Swim curriculum standards, promote water safety, and create a positive learning environment that encourages confidence, skill development, and enjoyment of aquatic activities.

The ideal candidate is energetic, dependable, patient, and passionate about helping children learn life-saving swimming skills while maintaining a safe aquatic environment.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Teach group and private swim lessons to youth ages 3 years through 99 years using Mercy Street Learn-to-Swim guidelines.
• Assess participant skill levels and provide instruction appropriate to individual abilities.
• Develop lesson plans and conduct classes that promote water safety, stroke development, and swimming proficiency.
• Maintain a safe and supportive environment for all participants.
• Monitor student progress and provide feedback to participants and parents/guardians.
• Enforce facility rules, safety procedures, and emergency action plans.
• Maintain accurate attendance, progress records, and incident reports as required.
• Assist with swim evaluations, aquatic events, and special programs.
• Inspect instructional equipment before and after classes and report any safety concerns.
• Communicate professionally with participants, parents, staff, and community partners.
• Teach group and private swim lessons to youth ages 3 years through 99 years using Mercy Street Learn-to-Swim guidelines
• Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and in-service sessions.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Current American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor (WSI) Certification or YMCA Swim Instructor Certification.
• Minimum age of 16 years.
• Ability to demonstrate all required swim strokes and water skills necessary for instruction.
• Current American Red Cross CPR/AED and First Aid certification
• Experience teaching or working with children and youth preferred.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to work evenings and weekends as program schedules require.
• Ability to safely enter and exit the pool and remain in the water for extended periods.
• Lifeguard certification.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bilingual (English/Spanish).
• Experience serving diverse youth populations.
• Prior experience with community-based aquatics programs

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to swim proficiently and demonstrate all instructional skills.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and lift up to 30 pounds.
• Ability to work in humid, outdoor environments.
• Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations.

PERKS OF SERVING WITH US

• 10–25 hours per week.
• Flexible schedule including mornings, afternoons, evenings, weekends, and seasonal programming.
• Competitive hourly wage based on certifications, experience, and program needs.
• Work in a fun, faith-filled environment.
• Opportunities to grow in leadership, ministry, and youth outreach.
• Be a part of a mission that transforms lives – in and out of the water.

MISSION-FOCUSED EXPECTATIONS

All roles with Mercy Street are first and foremost considered to be a Minister of the Gospel.

This position furthers Mercy Street’s religious mission by:

• Following Jesus Christ and setting an example for others through their lifestyle.
• Exhibiting a passion for learning and sharing the Gospel with others.
• Agreeing to the Mercy Street Statement of Faith.
• Demonstrate a commitment to youth development and water safety education.
• Treat all participants with dignity, respect, and inclusion.
• Serve as a positive role model for children and families.
• Support the organization's mission, vision and the Mercy Street Way.