Lifeguard Instructor

Why Your Role Matters

The Lifeguard Instructor position at the Greater Austin YMCA ensures the safe and effective training of individuals in YMCA Lifeguard Certification programs. By providing high-quality instruction and upholding safety standards, this role is essential to maintaining a well-trained lifeguard team, ensuring that our pools are safe for all members. This position also supports the YMCA’s mission of fostering community health and wellness, helping to develop strong, capable lifeguards who are prepared to respond to emergencies and lead by example in creating a positive, safe environment for all.

Candidates MUST be available to attend the LGI training being hosted November 12-15, 2026 at Townlake YMCA

How You Will Make an Impact

• Teach YMCA Lifeguard Certification courses, ensuring participants meet YMCA standards for safety and preparedness.

• Work effectively with individuals of different backgrounds, abilities, and perspectives.

• Build and maintain strong working relationships with staff, members, and community partners to support the YMCA’s mission.

• Maintain and care for equipment, ensuring it is clean, functional, and safe for use during classes.

• Follow YMCA procedures for reporting damaged or missing equipment and supplies.

• Keep accurate attendance records and ensure timely reporting of class details.

• Wear approved uniform and attire to remain easily identifiable and maintain a professional appearance.

• Set a positive example for staff by demonstrating strong job performance and professional behavior.

• Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and recertifications to stay up to date with necessary qualifications.

• Provide a minimum of 1 training per quarter, plus additional classes during increased hiring demand

• In-service personal skills to maintain a high level of standards

• Work with other instructors to coordinate and ensure consistent delivery of courses across the organization.

• Lead by example the Y’s mission, vision, and values with program participants, members, staff, and guests.

• Become an Ambassador of the Y’s work and culture by being the ultimate storyteller of who we are as an organization and brand.

• Complete other duties as assigned.

What You Bring to the Y

• Minimum 18 years of age

• YMCA Lifeguard Certification (or ability to obtain within 60 days of employment).

• BLS CPR/AED, First Aid, and Oxygen certification (or ability to obtain within 60 days of employment).

• YMCA Lifeguard Instructor Certification (or ability to obtain within 60 days of employment).

• 1 –2 years of lifeguarding or teaching experience.

• Strong communication skills with the ability to engage and instruct individuals of all ages and skill levels.

• Basic computer skills to maintain attendance records and communicate with staff.

• Ability to execute training design as provided by YUSA.

• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

• Ability to demonstrate lifeguard and rescue skills effectively in and out of the water.

• Flexible schedule availability, including evenings and weekends.

• Growth Mindset: Learn and improve to better serve members and the mission.

• Team Player: Work collaboratively with others and support a positive team environment.

• Communicates Effectively: Listen actively and communicate clearly with members and peers.

• Customer Focused: Anticipates needs and ensures quality, member-centered service.

• Fosters Belonging: Ensure everyone feels welcomed, respected, and included.

Physical Requirements:

The role requires comfort working in a pool environment, with exposure to water, chlorine, and varying temperatures. Lifeguard Instructors must be able to stand, walk, swim, and remain alert for extended periods. The position involves hearing and distinguishing distress signals, visually scanning all areas of the pool, and responding quickly to emergencies. Additionally, it requires lifting and moving equipment, children, and performing other physical tasks related to pool supervision and instruction. Effective verbal communication, including projecting your voice across distances in both normal and noisy conditions, is essential. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.