Swim Coach

Ready to dive into success? As a swim coach, transform potential into performance. 
Job Description

1. Maintains constant surveillance of the pool area.

2. Coach participants in swimming.

3. Prepare for and coach all assigned groups.  The use of lesson plans, session plans and evaluation sheets may be necessary.

4. Knows/reviews all emergency procedures and responds to emergency situations immediately in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures. Completes related reports as required.

5. Maintains effective relationships with the members, participants and other staff.

6. Knows, understands, and consistently applies safety rules, policies and guidelines for the pool and aquatic area.

7. Ensure scheduled shift is covered at all times.

8. Check the pool for hazardous conditions when arriving.

9. Provide emergency care and treatment as necessary and until medical professionals arrive. 

10. Attend all staff meetings, trainings and other YMCA functions as required by Supervisor.

11. Maintain open lines of communication with participant, coaches, referees, staff and supervisor.

12. Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

1. Education & Certifications: Must be 18 years of age.  Must be currently attending high school, ROP classes or equivalent or have a high school diploma or equivalent.

  • Current certification for Lifeguard training (recognized by the State of California),
  • First Aid, CPRand AED, required and must be maintained and kept in current status.
  • Water Safety Instructor (Red Cross) or Fundamentals of Teaching YMCA Swim Lessons preferred.
  • YMCA Lifeguard Certification is preferred. 

2. Must pass a 150 yard pre-employment swim test.

3. Criminal clearance including fingerprints

4. Health screening with negative Tb, and negative drug test screening.

5. Complete all required online trainings.

6. Strong communication skills (both written and oral).

7. Public relations skills and/or experience working with a diverse population desired.

8. Two or more years experience working as a swim instructor in an aquatics facility required.

9. Previous coaching experience preferred

10. Able to work an early shift 

Essential Functions

A swim coach plays a vital role in developing swimmers' skills, performance, and overall experience in the sport. Here are some essential functions of a swim coach:

  1. Skill Development: Teaching proper techniques for various strokes, starts, turns, and finishes.

  2. Training Plans: Creating and implementing individualized training programs based on swimmers' goals and skill levels.

  3. Performance Analysis: Monitoring and analyzing swimmers' performances to identify strengths and areas for improvement.

  4. Motivation and Support: Providing encouragement and support to help swimmers stay motivated and focused.

  5. Injury Prevention and Management: Educating swimmers on injury prevention techniques and helping them recover from injuries when they occur.

  6. Team Management: Organizing team practices, competitions, and events, fostering a positive team culture.

  7. Communication: Maintaining open lines of communication with swimmers, parents, and other coaches to ensure everyone is informed and aligned.

  8. Conditioning: Incorporating strength and conditioning exercises to enhance swimmers’ overall fitness and endurance.

  9. Tactical Coaching: Teaching race strategies and pacing to help swimmers perform at their best during competitions.

  10. Continuous Education: Staying updated on the latest swimming techniques, training methods, and coaching certifications to improve coaching skills.

These functions contribute to creating a positive and productive training environment, helping swimmers reach their potential in the sport.

Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies

YMCA Competencies (Leader):

Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Y’s values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fund-raising.

Collaboration: Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view, and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others.

Operational Effectiveness: Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience. Establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work and actively participates in meetings. Follows budgeting policies and procedures, and reports all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members.

Personal Growth: Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change, and seeks opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths and limitations and how they impact relationships. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.