Swim Coach – Peninsula Y

Careers by Empowering Futures, Building Communities  

Imagine going to work each day knowing that your efforts positively impact individuals and communities. As a global movement and the nation’s leading nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, the YMCA of Greater San Francisco offers more than just a job—we offer a career with a future and the opportunity to make a lasting difference in your community. At the Y, you can uncover your passion and build a lifelong career addressing some of the nation’s most pressing social issues. 

Our Organizational Culture  

At the YMCA of Greater San Francisco, we are committed to demonstrating values that aim to building strong communities where you can Be, Belong and Become. With Truth & Courage, we strive to understand and act on individual and societal truths. We ensure a safe and inclusive environment with Authenticity & Accessibility, allowing everyone to participate according to their needs. Our approach is Dependable & Creative, as we respond to community needs through strong partnerships. Above all, we embody Dignity & Empathy, treating everyone with respect and compassion, and recognizing the inherent dignity in all individuals. 

Position Summary 

Under the supervision of the Aquatics Leader, the Swim Coach is responsible for delivering high-quality training and implementing an inclusive swim program for all participants. The Swim Coach will contribute to team development and ensure a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment. 

Job Responsibilities 

Swim Team Development & Coaching 

• Engage with core aquatics programs to facilitate the transition from pre-competitive to competitive swimming, ensuring an inclusive and supportive experience for all participants. 
• Develop and execute workouts for each practice session, tailoring them to meet the needs of swimmers at various skill levels. 
• Lead beginner-level to advanced swim team groups, fostering skill development, inclusivity, and confidence. 
• Design practice plans and curricula that emphasize youth development, teamwork, and personal growth. 
• Plan, conduct, and supervise swim meets, practices, and special events for the team with support from the Aquatics Leader.  

Team Environment & Support 

• Create a fun, positive, and supportive environment that encourages participation, growth, and teamwork among swim team members. 
• Lead and co-teach clinics, promoting their benefits and accessibility to all members as needed by the branch. 
• Promote skill development and confidence while maintaining an inclusive team culture. 

Meet Organization & Supervision 

• Organize a year-round meet calendar, prepare and submit lineups, and attend and supervise meets to ensure smooth operations and an inclusive experience. 
• Plan, conduct, and supervise any swim meets, practices, and special events for the team.  

Parent & Guardian Communication 

• Work with Aquatics Leader to communicate effectively and professionally with parents and guardians, ensuring timely responses within a 48-hour timeframe. 

Administrative & Financial Support 

• Support Aquatics Leader to manage and maintain payment processing within the registration system, ensuring accurate and timely handling of all transactions. 

Qualifications 

• 1+ year of coaching experience with various ages 
• Ability to effectively supervise and coach swimmers, both on deck and in the water, fostering a safe and inclusive environment. 
• Demonstrates a clear understanding of swimming techniques, including strokes, diving, turns, and related skills. 
• Basic Life Support or Professional Rescuer CPR/AED certification—renewed annually* 
• First Aid certification* 
• Administering Oxygen Certification* 
• American Red Cross Safety Training for Swim Coaches (online and in-water skills session) or American Red Cross Lifeguard certification; both valid for 2 years** 
• YMCA Principles of Competitive Swimming & Diving** 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Certified in American Red Cross Lifeguard 
• Certified in YMCA Swim Lessons Instructor 
• Background in competitive swimming, either as a coach or swimmer 
• Ability to teach both group and private lessons as needed, adapting to the needs of individuals and ensuring accessibility. 

*Certified within 30 days of the start date 
**Required registrations within 90 days of the start date 

Work Environment & Physical Demands 

The Swim Coach primarily works indoors in an aquatic facility, with occasional outdoor responsibilities for program needs or special events. The role requires mobility throughout the facility for extended periods, including swimming and demonstrating techniques both in the water and on deck. Responsibilities may include setting up and breaking down equipment for practices or meets, which can involve lifting and carrying items up to 50 pounds. 

The Swim Coach must be able to supervise swimmers during practices, meets, and events while maintaining a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment. The position involves working in a dynamic setting and fostering a positive atmosphere. Some exposure to varying temperatures may occur in both indoor and outdoor environments. The Swim Coach is expected to respond promptly to emergencies and ensure the safety and well-being of all participants. 

Disclaimers 

• Must successfully complete a background screening, including criminal and employment verification. Some positions may also require a credit check. 
• All duties and responsibilities are essential job functions subject to reasonable accommodation. The YMCA of Greater San Francisco promotes an equal employment opportunity workplace, which includes reasonable accommodation for otherwise qualified disabled applicants and employees. Please contact your manager if you have any questions about this policy or these job duties. 
• This job description may not be all-inclusive, and employees are expected to perform other duties as assigned by management. Job descriptions and duties may be modified by management as needed. 
• Job offers are conditional and contingent upon background clearance. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance and CA Fair Chance Act, we will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records for employment. 

Salary Description 

The Swim Coach position offers a compensation pay rate of $25.00 – $31.00 per hour. This rate is based on salary benchmarking for similar roles and is aligned with grant fund approvals and requirements for the position.