JOB SUMMARY
The JCC of Staten Island is looking for an energetic, enthusiastic, dependable, and safety-conscious Aqua Instructor to join our aquatics team! The ideal candidate will have a passion for aquatic fitness, exercise, health, wellness, and helping individuals achieve their fitness goals in a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment.
ABOUT YOU
You will be responsible for planning, organizing, and leading aquatic exercise classes for participants of varying ages, fitness levels, and abilities. We are looking for an individual who can motivate participants, demonstrate proper exercise techniques, provide appropriate modifications, maintain a positive class atmosphere, and ensure that safety remains a top priority at all times.
WHAT YOU’LL DO
1. Aquatic Exercise Instruction Plan, prepare, and lead structured aquatic fitness classes appropriate to participants' fitness levels and program objectives.
Conduct water aerobics, aqua fitness, low-impact aquatic exercise, and other approved water-based fitness classes according to qualifications and facility programming.
Lead warm-up activities, cardiovascular exercises, strength-conditioning movements, flexibility exercises, and cool-down routines.
Demonstrate exercises clearly and provide verbal instructions that participants can easily understand and follow.
Incorporate movements that improve endurance, balance, coordination, muscular strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
Use appropriate aquatic exercise equipment, including water dumbbells, resistance gloves, pool noodles, kickboards, and other approved fitness aids.
Adjust exercise sequences, repetitions, speed, range of motion, and intensity to accommodate varying fitness levels.
Maintain a well-organized class structure with clear transitions between exercises.
Ensure that workouts are engaging, purposeful, and consistent with established program goals.
2. Participant Safety and Supervision Prioritize participant safety throughout every aquatic fitness session.
Monitor participants for signs of fatigue, dizziness, discomfort, distress, or difficulty completing exercises.
Provide clear safety instructions before beginning activities and when introducing unfamiliar movements or equipment.
Ensure exercises are appropriate for the pool depth, water conditions, participant abilities, and class format.
Follow all facility policies, emergency procedures, and applicable aquatic safety requirements.
Maintain awareness of the pool environment and report hazards, equipment concerns, and unsafe conditions promptly.
Respond appropriately to emergencies within the scope of training and follow the facility's emergency action plan.
Maintain required certifications and participate in assigned safety training.
Work cooperatively with lifeguards and other aquatic personnel while recognizing that instructor duties do not replace required lifeguard coverage.
Encourage participants to work at a comfortable and appropriate intensity and to stop exercising if they experience concerning symptoms.
3. Class Planning and Program Development Develop class plans that reflect the needs, goals, and abilities of the intended participants.
Prepare exercise routines that offer variety while maintaining consistency in quality and instruction.
Incorporate music, rhythmic movement, and motivational techniques when appropriate.
Plan progressive workouts that allow participants to develop fitness and confidence over time.
Provide alternative exercises for participants who need lower-impact movements or reduced intensity.
Introduce new exercises and equipment safely and explain their intended purpose.
Adapt classes to meet attendance levels, available equipment, pool conditions, and program requirements.
Evaluate class effectiveness and make adjustments based on participant feedback and observed performance.
Support the development of new aquatic fitness programs, special classes, and wellness initiatives as assigned.
4. Participant Engagement and…