Benefits:
401(k)
401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Free uniforms
Health insurance
Training & development
Vision insurance
Job Title: Special Needs Swim Instructor
Reports to: General Manager
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Make a Difference — One Swimmer at a Time.
Are you passionate about working with children of all abilities? Do you want a rewarding career where you can help children build confidence, independence, and life-saving water safety skills in a supportive environment?
Goldfish Swim School is seeking patient, energetic, and compassionate individuals to join our Golden Learners Program, designed specifically for children with special needs including autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, sensory processing disorders, ADHD, and other developmental or physical differences.
If you love helping children succeed and thrive, we’d love to have you on our team.
What We Offer
Paid specialized training in adaptive swim instruction
Weekly pay
Consistent set schedules
Part-time and full-time opportunities
Career growth opportunities
Inclusive, mission-driven work environment
Positive and supportive team culture
Opportunity to make a meaningful impact every day
Position Overview
Special Needs Swim Instructors teach children ages 4 months to 12 years old in a warm, 90-degree indoor pool environment. Instructors provide individualized swim instruction tailored to each child’s physical, cognitive, emotional, and sensory needs.
This role requires previous experience working with children with special needs. Goldfish Swim School provides swim-specific training, curriculum instruction, and ongoing support.
Key Responsibilities
Provide swim instruction using the Goldfish Swim School curriculum while adapting lessons to meet individual needs
Work one-on-one or in small groups with children with special needs
Use patience, empathy, and structure to support sensory, behavioral, and physical differences
Maintain a safe, calm, and encouraging learning environment
Ensure student safety at all times
Track and document student progress
Communicate effectively with parents and guardians regarding goals and progress
Use flexibility and problem-solving skills to address challenges during lessons
Inspect pool areas before and after lessons and report concerns
Maintain and properly store pool equipment
Perform light cleaning duties as needed
Attend required trainings and in-service meetings
Perform additional duties as assigned
Required Qualifications
Previous experience working with children with special needs required (professional or structured volunteer experience accepted)
Experience may include working with children with autism, Down syndrome, sensory processing disorders, ADHD, or similar developmental or physical differences
Ability to remain calm, patient, and attentive in dynamic environments
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to follow safety procedures and lesson plans
Reliable transportation and consistent availability
Preferred Experience
Swim instruction, aquatic therapy, or adaptive sports experience
Background in special education, ABA therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, childcare, or behavioral support
CPR, First Aid, or Lifeguard certification preferred
Goldfish Swim School can provide certification training for qualified candidates
Core Skills & Attributes
Compassion and empathy
High emotional intelligence
Flexibility and adaptability
Strong observational skills
Team-oriented mindset
High energy with strong attention to detail
Ready to Join Our Team?
We are hiring immediately, and the hiring process can take less than one week!
Join a team where you can truly make a lasting impact in children’s lives while building meaningful relationships with families and coworkers every day.
Keywords: Kids, Children, Child Care, Education, Instruction, Instructor, Teacher, Daycare, Fun Job, Part Time, Growth, Swim, School, Work with Kids, Customer Service, Receptionist, Flexible, Engaging Job, After School Job, Camp, Counselor, Coach, Tutor, Nanny, Babysitter, Water Safety, Lifeguard, Pool Job, Leadership, Rescue, Safety, Fun
Each Goldfish Swim School is an independently owned and operated franchise. The respective Franchisee is the employer at each Goldfish Swim School location. Each franchisee can set their own wages, benefit programs and terms and conditions of employment, which may vary at each Goldfish Swim School location.'
Each Goldfish Swim School is an independently owned and operated franchise. The respective Franchisee is the employer at each Goldfish Swim School location. Each franchisee can set their own wages, benefit programs and terms and conditions of employment, which may vary at each Goldfish Swim School location.