Swim Instructor

Job Description

Job Description

City of Menahga
Spirit Lake Swim Instructor (2026)

POSITION TITLE: Spirit Lake Swim Instructor
DEPARTMENT: Public Works
REPORTS TO: Campground and Building Maintenance Manager
STATUS: Part-Time Seasonal (15–25 hours per week, flexible schedule) / non-exempt
EFFECTIVE DATES: June 16 – August 30
SALARY: $17.25 – $20.00 per hour

POSITION SUMMARY
Under general supervision, the Spirit Lake Swim Instructor provides swimming lessons to children and adults of varying skill levels, fostering water safety, confidence, and proper swimming techniques in a natural lake environment. This role focuses on developing and implementing lesson plans, tracking student progress, and ensuring a safe and supportive learning experience. The Swim Instructor must be professional, approachable, and committed to enhancing the community’s experience at Spirit Lake.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop and implement swim lesson plans tailored to different age groups and skill levels, including beginners, intermediates, and advanced swimmers.
• Teach swimming techniques, water safety, and survival skills in a natural lake environment, addressing challenges like currents and uneven lake bottoms.
• Track and document student progress, providing feedback to participants and parents as needed.
• Ensure a safe and supportive learning environment, enforcing safety rules and guidelines during lessons.
• Maintain effective communication and positive interactions with students, parents, colleagues, and supervisors.
• Inspect the teaching area for hazards before lessons and report any safety concerns to the Campground and Building Maintenance Manager.
• Attend all required staff meetings and training sessions.
• Keep all certifications current and valid, including CPR/First Aid/AED.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

• Actively attending a High School
• Must be at least 15 years old.
• Current American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor (WSI) certification (or proof of enrollment in a WSI course with a graduation date of 15 May 2025 or earlier).
• Current CPR/First Aid/AED certification.
• Strong swimming ability and comfort teaching in a natural lake environment.
• Strong communication skills to effectively interact with students, parents, staff, and supervisors.
• Ability to develop lesson plans and adapt teaching methods to various skill levels and age groups.
• Ability to follow directions and complete assigned tasks efficiently.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• One to two (1–2) years of previous swim instruction experience.
• High school diploma or GED certificate.
• Experience teaching in a natural lake or open-water environment.

SUPERVISION & RESPONSIBILITY
General supervision is provided while performing the normal duties of this job. Work affects the overall efficiency and image of the City on matters of significance.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORK CONDITIONS

• Strong swimming ability to demonstrate techniques and ensure safety during lessons.
• Ability to remain alert and attentive during lessons.
• Frequent standing, walking, sitting, and swimming; occasional stooping, kneeling, and climbing.
• Must be able to project voice over distance to instruct students in a lake environment.
• Must be prepared to work in varying outdoor conditions typical of a Minnesota summer, including extreme heat and sun.
• Exposure to moderate noise levels and outside environmental conditions.

BENEFITS

• Accrual and use of Earned Sick and Safe Time (ESST).
• Provided uniforms and necessary teaching equipment.

NOTICE
This job description outlines the general nature and responsibilities of the position. It is not an exhaustive list of all duties, qualifications, or work conditions. The employer reserves the right to modify job duties and responsibilities at its discretion with or without notice.