Join South Side YMCA’s Swim for Success Workforce Development Program

Dive into a new role with the South Side YMCA this summer and join our team as a lifeguard and/or swim instructor! 

This summer, we’re extra excited to be part of Swim for Success, a pilot Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) workforce development program! Taking place at the South Side Y, the program creates a pipeline for youth of color in in-demand jobs as lifeguards and swim instructors! 

That’s right, we’re seeking youth ages 15 to 18 who are ready to: 

Take on new challenges! 
Not only will you learn the necessary life-saving and water-safety skills, our lifeguards and swim instructors are on alert at all times to keep our swimmers safe. Taking on new challenges requires learning new skills, and we’ll support you every step of the way as you train to become a lifeguard or swim instructor. 

Earn while you learn! 
From June through September 1, our lifeguards and swim instructors not only earn $15.40 per hour, but they will receive the necessary equipment and supplies (i.e., rash guard shirts and course materials), CTA Ventra cards, and free instructions and certifications (e.g., American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification and YMCA Swim Lessons Instructor Certification). The Y will also provide you with a free YMCA membership to all of our programs and facilities, including aquatics offerings so you can continue to elevate your swimming and water safety skills!

Gain transferable skills! 
Transferable skills are the soft skills that can be used in many situations and are developed through positions that may or may not be related to your future career interests. Skills such as communication, teamwork, critical thinking, teaching, and problem-solving are all examples of transferable skills and, believe it or not, being a lifeguard or swim instructor can help develop all of these skills! 

Being a lifeguard or swim instructor is so much more than just a summer job, it’s an opportunity to jump start your career and prepare you for the future — whatever it may hold! 

So what are you waiting for? Join our aquatics department and apply to become a lifeguard or swim instructor today!