Student - HRC Swim Instructor (Aquatics)

Swim instructors provide engaging, high-quality swim instruction using the Starfish Acquatics Institute (SAI) Swim School and Stroke School curriculum. Instructors create a safe, supportive learning environment that fosters confidence and skill development in swimmers of all ages. Responsibilities include teaching lessons, ensuring participant safety, maintaining accurate records, and communicating effectively with parents and guardians. This position also supports program improvement efforts and reflects the mission and values of Butler Recreation and Wellness while developing valuable leadership and teaching skills. 

Duties and Responsibilities:
• Instruct individual or group swim lessons using SAI Swim School and Stroke School curriculum
• Maintain a safe and supportive learning environment
• Provide clear instruction, encouragement, and feedback to participants
• Communicate effectively with parents/guardians about student progress
• Prepare class materials and maintain daily lesson records
• Monitor participants’ safety at all times and respond appropriately in emergency situations
• Collaborate with aquatic staff and leadership team to improve program quality
 

Expectations:
• Commitment to Butler Recreation and Wellness’s Mission and Values
• Function and communicate effectively and respectfully within the context of vary beliefs, behaviors, orientations, identities, body sizes, abilities, and cultural backgrounds
• Maintain regular and punctual attendance
• Comply with University and department policies
• Ensure confidentiality of information
• Represent Butler University’s HRC Aquatics Center in a professional manner
 

Typical Working Conditions:
• Flexible schedule primarily weekday evenings
 

Location of Work:
• At the Health and Recreation Complex (HRC) in the Aquatics Center
 

Type of Work:
• Swimming safely up to 500 yards and perform lifting and carrying of items/persons up to 50 pounds
• Manual dexterity to grasp objects and operate equipment
• Vision adequate to clearly distinguish objects and persons at a distance and to identify signs of swimmer distress
• Bodily movement to switch between sitting, standing, jumping, swimming, climbing, etc.
 

Attire:
Appropriate swimsuit for engaging with parents and children
o One piece for women
o Swim trunks for men
 

Minimum Qualifications:
• Be in good academic standing (i.e., Maintain a minimum enrollment of 6+ BU credit hours for undergraduates, 5+ BU credit hours for graduates, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0+ for undergraduates and 3.0+ for graduate students
• Must be able to attend the Annual All Staff Training at the start of each Fall semester
• Must successfully complete a background check
• Current Starfish Swimming Instructor (SSI) certification, or willingness to obtain certification prior to employment through a Butler University-provided course
• Strong swimming ability and comfort in deep and shallow water
• Ability to communicate effectively with children and guardians
 

Preferred Qualifications:
• Experience working with diverse populations
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and leadership skills
• Previous experience teaching swim lessons
• Experience working with youth, families, or diverse ability levels
• Competitive swimming or aquatic instruction background
 

Application Instructions:
• Click “Apply Now” below
• Follow all instructions to complete the application process
• All applicants will be contacted by the hiring manager within two weeks of applying.
If you need accommodations in filling out the application, or have questions about the position, please contact the Recreation and Wellness Administrative Assistant by phone at (317) 940-8315 or email Deb Barrick at BDarrick@Butler.edu.
 

Annual Performance Reviews:
Performance reviews and evaluations are given annually for student employees. The process includes both a 30-minute review and written evaluation. Reviews are used as a professional development tool, to determine raises, to provide information for references, and can help determine corrective action regarding performance. Performance evaluations are one of the processes of supervision and are not intended to replace feedback received during ongoing conversations or the disciplinary process.
 

About Us:
Butler University is a private, nationally recognized comprehensive university encompassing seven colleges: Arts, Business, Communication, Education, Liberal Arts & Sciences, Pharmacy & Health Sciences, and Founder’s College. Approximately 4,500 undergraduate and 1,000 graduate and doctoral students are enrolled at Butler, representing 46 states and 24 countries. Join us at the crossroads of tradition and transformation. A career at Butler University means so much more than a job. Join the dedicated, innovative, and supportive community of faculty and staff that is moving Butler Beyond. Butler University is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of age, sex, race, religion, color, disability, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, national origin, or any other legally protected category.