Aqua Fit Instructor (NW)

Why Your Role Matters 

At our YMCA, we believe in fostering not just fitness but also a sense of community and belonging. As an Aqua Fit Instructor, your role is pivotal in enhancing both the health and well-being of our community members while nurturing a strong sense of togetherness. Reporting to the Health and Wellness Director, you will lead Aqua Cardio classes, providing expert guidance, clear instruction, and enthusiastic motivation. Through your efforts, you'll create a safe, inclusive, and engaging fitness environment where individuals can pursue their wellness goals while building connections within our vibrant community. 

How You Will Make an Impact? 

• Lead engaging water cardio classes, focusing on correct exercise techniques to maximize results and prevent injuries, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for YMCA members. 
• Provide direct guidance and motivation, creating an inspiring workout environment that encourages participants to push their limits. 
• Develop and implement varied class routines, including Tabata, cardio intervals, strength training, and flexibility exercises, keeping sessions stimulating and challenging. 
• Actively participate in the water, demonstrating exercises and maintaining proper form to guide participants effectively. 
• Maintain vigilance in the pool area to ensure safety and well-being of all participants. 
• Adhere to YMCA dress code, enforce rules, and comply with Human Resources Guidelines, Code of Ethics, payroll procedures, and emergency protocols. 
• Arrive at least 10 minutes before class start time, ready to lead sessions as scheduled. 
• Ensure a smooth class transition by arranging suitable substitutes and providing clear lesson plans. 
• Maintain accurate class rosters and attendance records to keep participants informed and engaged. 
• Emphasize proper form and technique, and communicate clearly with participants to enhance their experience. 
• Participate in mandatory meetings and training to stay updated with program requirements and best practices. 
• Encourage participants to shower before entering the pool to maintain high hygiene standards. 
• Keep the pool area tidy, store equipment properly, and report any maintenance issues promptly. 
• Ensure proper closure of the pool area after class. 
• Provide first aid as needed and complete incident/accident reports for any injuries or incidents. 
• Lead by example, embodying the YMCA’s mission, vision, and values in all interactions. 
• Act as a storyteller for the YMCA, showcasing our work and culture to participants, staff, and the community. 
• Complete additional tasks as assigned to support program success and organizational goals. 

What You Bring to the Y 

• 18 years old at the time of hire. 
• Certified in CPR and First Aid, or able to obtain certification upon hire. 
• Hold a nationally accredited Aqua Cardio or Water Fitness certification, demonstrating expertise in aquatic exercise techniques and safety. 
• Prior experience teaching aquatic fitness classes, with a proven track record of effectively engaging participants and delivering high-quality instruction. 
• Ability to modify exercises and routines to accommodate varying fitness levels and individual needs, ensuring an inclusive and effective class experience. 
• Comprehensive understanding of water safety practices and emergency procedures specific to aquatic environments. 
• Display enthusiasm and energy that inspires and motivates participants, creating a dynamic and engaging class atmosphere. 
• Team Player: Work collaboratively with others and support a positive team environment. 
• Communicates Effectively: Listens actively and communicates clearly with members and peers. 
• Fosters Belonging: Ensure everyone feels welcomed, respected, and included. 
• Growth Mindset: Learn and improve to better serve members and the mission. 
• Self-Development: Actively seeking new ways to grow and be challenged. 
• Customer Focused: Anticipates needs and ensures quality, member-centered service. 

Work Environment: 

The Aqua Fit Instructor position at the Greater Austin YMCA involves working in both indoor and outdoor pool areas. This role requires comfort working in a pool environment, which includes exposure to water, chlorine, and varying temperatures. Shifts may include early mornings, late evenings, weekends, and holidays. 

Work Location

5807 McNeil Drive, Austin, Texas 78729, United States

About Us

The Greater Austin YMCA is a dynamic force elevating quality of life in Greater Austin by boldly expanding access for all children, adults, families and seniors in our rapidly growing community. For nearly 75 years, the Greater Austin YMCA has evolved to address each community's greatest needs, touching every phase of life and nurturing happier, healthier people, a stronger community and a better world.

We believe everyone deserves access to high-quality programs that keep our community strong. As a proud 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we provide financial assistance to expand access so community members can learn, grow, and thrive through our early learning academies, fitness and wellness centers, youth programs, workforce development, adult programming, mental health counseling, and more.

Each year, the Y serves nearly 140,000 people across Travis and Hays counties through seven fitness and wellness centers, more than 55 licensed campuses in four school districts, two YMCA Tomorrow Academy™ locations, and Camp Moody, our outdoor Adventure camp.

Globally, the YMCA is one of the oldest and largest youth-serving organizations in the world, united by our commitment to a better future -- for all.

Additional Information:

The organization has reviewed this job description to ensure that essential functions and basic duties have been included. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all functions, responsibilities, skills, and abilities. Additional functions and requirements may be assigned by supervisors as deemed appropriate.

The Greater Austin YMCA provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. Greater Austin YMCA complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which we have employees. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

We Take Care of Our People

• Benefit from a free household YMCA membership, enriching both your life and the lives of others.
• Access retirement planning options to secure your future.
• Enhance your skills through participation in learning and development workshops.
• Exclusive cell phone plan discounts for AT&T and T-Mobile/Sprint users.
• Discounts on programs and services to make your YMCA experience even more rewarding.

Pay Range

$16.00-$33.00 per hour, DOE