Aquatics Guard / Aquatics Instructor

Location

Niagara West YMCA, Grimsby Pay

Guard: $17.70 per hour to start
Instructor: $18.15 per hour to start

YMCA Membership upon hire

Employment Type Regular Part-Time, 16-34 hours per week. Placement Date September 2025

WHY WORK FOR THE YMCA?

The YMCA of Niagara is a mission-driven organization committed to fueling a healthy, connected, and engaged Niagara. Our presence in over 100 program sites has been impacting the community with dedication and purpose for over 150 years.

Our legacy in the community is a testament to the transformative work we do. We serve a diverse range of individuals and families, with a commitment to inclusivity, collaboration, and the wellbeing of all. As we move forward, we are embracing a revitalized approach to meet the evolving needs of the community and actively contribute to transforming lives across Niagara.

Guided by our shared values – caring, health, honesty, inclusiveness, respect, advocacy, and responsibility - the YMCA provides our employees with meaningful opportunities to make a positive impact on individuals and the health of our communities.

Our dynamic team is dedicated to maintaining our growth trajectory though continuously adapting and innovating our services and programs to meet the changing landscape in Niagara.

NATURE & SCOPE

The YMCA Lifeguard/Instructor position plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals utilizing aquatic facilities while also facilitating swim instruction programs. This role requires a strong commitment to water safety, exceptional communication skills, and a passion for promoting physical fitness and aquatic skill development. 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Responsible for providing excellent member service following the Y WAY standards and principles. 
To instruct by and follow YMCA Canada Swim Guidelines and Practices. 
To lifeguard in accordance to YMCA of Niagara Guidelines and Practices, Ontario Health Regulations and TSSA Standards [where applicable]. 
Support and work as part of a staff/volunteer team. 
Responsible for the safety and security of the members and participants. 
Participate with the children in a positive and supportive manner taking into consideration each child’s uniqueness. 
Administrative duties associated with instructing and lifeguarding. 
To keep program areas clean, organized and safe for everyone’s use. 
Participate in training and adhere to the YMCA Child Protection Policies and Procedures as established by the YMCA of Niagara.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Experience working with children in a recreational setting. 
Current Standard First Aid/CPR[C] – must be a certificate that meets OHSA Regulation 1101 requirements (St. John’s, Red Cross, Life Saving Society or Ski Patrol). 
Current NLS and YMCA Swim Instructors or equivalent and LS Lifesaving Instructors [within 2 years from date of issue]. 
YMCA Aquatic Fitness certification or equivalent (recommended). 
Upon hiring, applicants 18 years of age and older must submit a clear and satisfactory criminal reference check inclusive of the vulnerable sector search (PVSC) issued for the YMCA of Niagara.
Advanced instructors would be an asset. 
Applicants must have current qualifications as required by position.

COMPETENCIES:

Commitment to Vision and Values 

Demonstrates and promotes a personal understanding of and an appreciation for the mission, vision, values. 

Concern for Health and Safety 

Acknowledges and understands how to manage and educate others of risk and harm reduction. 

Quality Focus 

Ensures that YMCA programs and services are superior. 

Service Orientation 

Deliberately identifies and creates opportunities to enhance every person’s YMCA experience. 

Teamwork 

Actively builds teams and encourages open relationships for maximum organizational effectiveness. 

APPLICATION PROCESS

Interested applicants are invited to submit an application on our job board by noon on September 1, 2025.

Internal applicants are encouraged to notify their supervisor before applying.

All applicants are thanked for their interest. Only those applicants being considered for an interview will be contacted by email.

Accessibility accommodations and materials in alternate formats for individuals with disabilities can be arranged upon request.

For more information on other opportunities at the YMCA of Niagara, please visit: ymcaofniagara.org