Summary

Under general supervision, plans, schedules, and implements swimming and water safety instructional programs for a diverse range of participants; plans and delivers age-appropriate and skill-focused lessons based upon participant abilities.  Provides learning tools and equipment; delivers instructional materials; ensures the safety of students and participants through the use of safe instructional practices; maintains program records and files; and performs related work as required.

Supervision Received And Exercised

Receives supervision from supervisory staff and direction from higher-level staff. Exercises direction over lower-level staff.

Distinguishing Characteristics

This classification is responsible for performing assigned swim instruction program duties, including class planning and delivery, and ensuring a safe environment for participants. Incumbents in this classification rely on experience and judgment to ensure the efficient and effective functioning of the assigned program area. Incumbents are responsible for establishing objectives, timelines, and methods to deliver services. Work is typically reviewed upon completion for soundness, appropriateness, and conformity to policy and requirements.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.

• Implements swimming and water safety instructional programs; prepares and delivers technical guidance, age-appropriate and skill-focused lessons based upon participant abilities.
• Receives and responds to questions, concerns, and complaints from patrons; determines issues and resolves or refers to higher-level staff as appropriate.
• Provides aquatic safety and supervision for patrons; monitors activities in the water, pool decks, and ancillary areas of District aquatics facilities to prevent accidents, and to ensure the safety and well-being of patrons.
• Works collaboratively with participants and aquatics staff to ensure a positive learning environment.
• Inspects and maintains swimming and pool equipment for functionality; ensures proper placement and availability in the pool area; recommends maintenance and repair as needed.
• Assists with District special events as needed.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• Prior experience participating in aquatics programs or performing lifeguard duties is desirable.

Knowledge of:

• Principles and practices of effective swimming techniques, goals, and objectives.
• Relevant laws, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Operational characteristics of water rescue safety equipment and devices.
• Principles and practices for providing high level of customer service.
• Occupational hazards and standard safety practices.
• Modern office practices, methods, and computer equipment and applications related to the work.

Ability to:

• Plan, organize, and implement swimming and water safety classes.
• Learn, monitor, and enforce relevant laws, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.
• React to and handle emergencies in a safe and effective manner.
• Administer first aid, CPR, and AED as needed.
• Maintain facilities and equipment in a clean, safe, and secure manner.
• Perform work in an efficient, effective, safe, and timely manner.
• Demonstrate strong customer service skills and establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships.
• Use English effectively to communicate in person, over the telephone, and in writing.

Licenses and Certifications:

• At time of appointment, and maintained throughout employment possession of:
  • American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor certification,
  • American Red Cross First Aid, CPR, and AED.

Physical Demands

Work is primarily performed within a public swimming pool environment, where stamina is needed to perform moderate to heavy lifting of pool equipment and furniture or children and adults who may require removal from the pool, and to stay in the pool for prolonged periods. Must possess the mobility to stand, stoop, kneel, reach, bend, climb, push and pull materials and equipment, and swim while wearing an appropriate uniform with protective equipment. Vision and hearing must be sufficient to see and hear adults and children in crowded and noisy conditions and/or situations. Must also possess: the mobility to work in an office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person or by using a telephone and radio. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or to operate safety equipment. Must possess the ability to swim distances and dive to pool depths, as determined by testing/certification authorities, and to lift 150 pounds or heavier weights with assistance and/or the use of proper equipment.

Environmental Elements

Incumbents work outdoors in a pool environment with wet and slippery conditions, and are exposed to variable weather conditions; may be exposed to chlorine, acids, and other chemicals at aquatics facilities, as well as blood and body fluids while rendering first aid and CPR. Incumbents will interact with individuals in interpreting and enforcing rules, policies, and procedures.

Working Conditions

Incumbents may be assigned an irregular work schedule, including weekends, early mornings, evenings, and holidays.

Pre-Employment Conditions

• Department of Justice fingerprint clearance.
• Medical exam and drug testing clearance.
• Work Permit if applicable.

Classification Details/History

Date Adopted: 4/26/17 Job Code: PT278 FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Supersedes: Instructor/Lifeguard dated 3/14/07