Swim Instructor- Lifeguard

The Swim Instructor - Lifeguard instructs swim lessons and supervises swimming activities at the aquatics facility and ensures that policies, guidelines, and safety procedures are followed. The desired candidate maximizes member and guest experiences by providing quality fitness programming in the areas of aquatics instruction and member services. The Swim Instructor - Lifeguard ensures a safe, nurturing, and fun learning environment for members and guests at all times. The Swim Instructor - Lifeguard is an integral part of the YWCA O'ahu team to create a sense of community through each member experience / gathering at Laniakea and Kokokahi, as assigned. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES/FUNCTIONS:

·         Acts as an ambassador and host for members and guests by creating a warm, welcoming and nurturing environment; creates and maintains excellent relations with members and guests. Is knowledgeable about and effectively communicates YWCA events, programs, and services.

·         Adheres to YWCA policies and consistently upholds established procedures and processes pertaining to membership, hospitality, and fitness programming. Communicates appropriately and follows processes for substitutions and class cancellations.

·         Presents an appropriate and professional, positive demeanor at all times. Sets an example as a role model for a fit and healthy person; regularly shares educational information with class participants and members. Dresses appropriately for teaching classes.

·         Creates a welcoming environment at all times; motivates community to build relationships with each other and achieve their health & wellness goals. Learns the names of class attendees and members; greets all new participants, introduces them to the class, and takes time to share basic exercise information with them.

·         Follows guidelines set forth by YWCA and ARC (American Red Cross) for a safe and enjoyable class; arrives well-prepared and with lessons thought out. Teaches with high energy and enthusiasm at all times. Arrives to teach class in advance of the scheduled time to greet members and guests, answer questions and address concerns. Stays behind to ensure the room is orderly, lights and air conditioning are turned off, and any equipment is put away.

·         Maintains nationally-accredited lifeguarding and water safety certifications, keeps up to date on safety and aquatics trends.

·         Actively participates as a YWCA employee by working with staff and members in fitness offerings and special events; attends and participates in meetings, YWCA events as needed.

·         Continuously evaluates needs and interests of members, and makes recommendations to improve processes, equipment and offerings related to aquatic and fitness programming; exceeds member expectations by striving for the ‘delight factor.’

·         Communicates calmly, professionally and effectively with individuals of diverse backgrounds that include all staff, members, general public, and partners; handles difficult situations diplomatically and exercises good judgment in keeping with the YWCA mission and philosophy.

·         Handles emergency situations including those in need of immediate physical, mental, or emotional assistance; interfaces with police, EMTs, or related services as needed.

·         Performs additional duties as required, including basic pool maintenance tasks.

Network Weaver and Steward:

·         Informally helps to build a network as a member of a network (not as a formal position or role).

·         Contributes to overall membership by ensuring an excellent experience for members and their guests; knowledgeable of programs, services, and upcoming YWCA events.

JUDGEMENT / DECISION-MAKING

·         As a representative of the YWCA, ensures a workplace free from any form of harassment, intimidation, or unlawful discrimination, and which promotes mutually respectful and professional interactions.

·         Work is diversified and may not always fall under established practices and guidelines.

·         Creativity to resolve routine problems independently; exercises independent judgment.

·         Demonstrates professional, positive, and approachable attitude/demeanor, and discretion.

·         Works as a member of a team; may work to gain cooperation from individuals and groups over whom there is no direct authority in order to accomplish goals.

COMMUNICATION/INTERPERSONAL CONTACTS

·         Ability to listen well and communicate effectively with individuals of diverse backgrounds that include all staff, members, general public, and partners.

·         Formulates and clearly communicates ideas; provides information to assist workflow throughout the organization.

·         Communicates equipment/facility problems appropriately and with a sense of urgency.

WORKING CONDITIONS  

·         Work is performed in a smoke-free environment, both air-conditioned and outside/open-air.

·         Work requires physical exertion and/or physical strain.

·         Requires willingness to work flexible hours as schedule requires.

EQUIPMENT USE: Telephone, walkie talkie, radios; exercise equipment including but not limited to: aquatic exercise equipment, jogging belts, kick boards, floatation devices.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Bending, climbing, reaching, mobility, sitting, grasping, repetitive motions. Lift up to 50lbs.

PHYSICAL CONDITIONS

·         Must be able to lift 50 lbs. using proper technique 

·         Able to stand on their feet for long periods of time

·         Adequate vision to review document, adequate hearing to interact with public

EXPERIENCE

·         Minimum 3 years teaching in a group exercise setting; practical experience and strong interest in health/wellness and/or aquatics field

SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE/ABILITIES

·         Ability to perform group exercise classes in accordance with YWCA and ARC protocol

·         Ability to identify and respond to signs of exercise-induced distress  

·         Knowledgeable of safety and fitness trends in the health and wellness industry

EDUCATION/TRAINING

·         Background in Physical Education, Exercise Science, Health Education, or related field preferred

·         Current First Aid, CPR, AED certification

·         Current Water Safety Instructor and Lifeguard Certification from American Red Cross

·         Passing grade for YWCA Exercise Evaluation within 6 months of hire