Swim Instructor - Washington D.C.:
Swim Instructor - Washington D.C.: 2025-3504
The Headfirst Companies | Posted Jan 16
Full-time
Washington, D.C.
Position Overview
At Headfirst, we design fun, intentional, and transformational camp experiences where every camper feels seen, known, and celebrated. Growth doesn't happen by accident—it happens by design. Through thoughtfully planned activities and trained staff, we create what we call Headfirst Moments: when a camper tries something new, pushes through fear, and realizes, "I can do it."
Role Information
Compensation: $12 - $17.95 / hour
Schedule
In-season (late June through mid August): Monday – Friday, arrival and departure times vary by location (7:45 - 3:30 pm is standard)
Pre-season (early June): select weekends for training and site preparation
What You'll Do
Bring Camp to Life
Ensure the utmost safety of the pool and all participants in the swim program
Teach small groups of 4 to 6 campers using a pre-written instructional swim curriculum, implementing Headfirst-specific swim level expectations and adaptations
Complete thorough, timely, and accurate written weekly individual camper swim reports based on the week's activities
Implement Headfirst's safety protocols on supervision, bathrooms, emergency policies, and pool safety procedures
Attend in-season safety trainings and work toward personal growth in swim instruction
Execute morning and afternoon carpool, welcoming each family to camp by name with warm, coordinated procedures
Nurture physical, social & emotional safety
Support campers in their emotional, physical, and social development through hands-on exploration and developmentally appropriate activities
Identify each camper's individual swim needs and encourage developmentally appropriate growth in swim skills
Represent Headfirst for families & facility partners
Actively participate in maintaining the camp facility and community
Be a dedicated member of the camp team: arrive on time, communicate schedule changes promptly, show loyalty and consistency, be flexible with assignments, and adapt to support other programs as needed
Handle curveballs with a "How can I help?" mentality, focusing on camper experience and team success
About You
Must be at least 16 years old with at least two years of high school completed or equivalent professional experience.
Experience
Experience in swim instruction preferred but not required (we will train you!)
Must Be Able To
Swim and spend extended periods in a swimming pool
Work around small children, including sitting, standing, running, and climbing stairs all day
Work in hot and outdoor environments while actively supervising campers and engaging in dynamic activities
Lift and carry up to 30 pounds occasionally
Adhere to the Cell-Phone Free policy; power down and store phones in a locked pouch for the duration of your shift
EEO Statement
Headfirst Summer Camps is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and inclusion across our Headfirst community, and we strongly encourage individuals from underrepresented groups and those who might need reasonable accommodation to apply.
About Headfirst
Headfirst delivers thoughtfully designed, high-quality summer and youth experiences built to elevate potential and exceed expectations. For over 25 years, we've partnered with families, schools, and organizations to create environments where kids feel supported, challenged, and confident trying new things.
What makes Headfirst different is intentionality. We don't wait and hope growth happens—we design for it. Our programs are carefully structured, and our staff are trained to spot, create, and celebrate breakthrough moments. These Headfirst Moments—when a camper pushes past fear, tries something new, or surprises themselves—are built into every day.
We believe great experiences are built on relationships. Our teams prioritize genuine connection, creating welcoming environments where campers feel seen and known, staff feel supported, and families trust that every detail has been thoughtfully considered. Behind the scenes, a year-round headquarters team supports our seasonal staff with training, systems, and clear expectations so camps run smoothly and consistently.
When you join Headfirst, you're joining a team that takes pride in doing things well. We care deeply about the experience we deliver, the people we work with, and the impact we have on kids and families. The work is meaningful, the standards are high, and the summers are unforgettable.
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