Overview
Summer TigerSwim Instructor; Student Jobs in Columbia, USA at University of Missouri System
Position: Summer TigerSwim Instructor (Student)
Hiring Department
Mizzou Rec Services and Facilities is a department within the Division of Student Affairs that provides quality leisure experiences to all members of the campus community, primarily Mizzou students. Through our facilities and programs, we strive to bring our members and guests an environment that inspires and promotes a healthy, active lifestyle. Mizzou Rec enhances the student experience by creating a sense of “third place” and belonging with its vast services, facilities, and programming – in addition to its unique connection to campus history and traditions.
Job Description
NOTE:
This is a summer-only position, with employment dates from April 14 – August 14, 2026. Students hired under this posting will be employed as both a Tiger Swim Group Lesson Instructor and Private Lesson Instructor.
Summary
Tiger Swim Lesson Instructors plan and teach the American Red Cross Learn-to-Swim program for swim lesson participants ages 6 months through adult. Instructors provide leadership and guidance of skills during class through attentiveness to each participant’s swimming and learning needs. Tiger Swim Instructors must effectively and safely instruct group and private swim lessons for all age and skill levels. Previous swimming instructor experience is highly recommended.
Candidates must have strong communication and decision-making skills, as well as knowledge and application of teaching swimming and water safety skills. American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor certification is recommended but not required.
Essential Functions
* Greet and communicate with all members and guests participating in the Tiger Swim Program associated with their assigned level.
* Instruct classes based on the American Red Cross curriculum in the Mizzou Rec Aquatic Center.
* The instructor must be able to teach all levels of swim strokes required by the Red Cross Learn-to-Swim Program.
* Instructors should feel comfortable teaching individuals ranging from 6 months to adult in an indoor pool at varying depths.
* Be able to demonstrate swim strokes in the water as well as on land.
* Ensure participant safety by enforcing and communicating all Aquatic Center policies and procedures.
* Be able to quickly and effectively respond to the Aquatic Center Emergency Action plan when activated, and assist Aquatic staff as needed, while ensuring safety of the participants.
* Be readily available to instruct private lessons as assigned by the Aquatic Coordinator for Programming.
* Communicate effectively to assigned private lesson inquiries and remain in communication with the family for on-going private lessons.
* Adhere to all University, Mizzou Rec, Team Mizzou, and area specific guidelines.
* As with all positions, involvement with other duties and responsibilities is expected in order to serve the customer and maintain the Mizzou Rec mission.
Anticipated Hiring Range
Private Lessons: $24.00, paid on a bi-weekly basis.
Group Lessons: $19.06, paid on a bi-weekly basis.
Shift
Average hours per week: 6-8.
2.5- or 3.5-hour shifts Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday:
* 9:00 a.m.
– 11:30 a.m.
* 3:00 p.m.
– 6:30 p.m.
This is a summer-only position, with employment dates from April 14 (onboarding) – August 14, 2026.
This position may require evening and weekend hours supporting activities and programs within the department. Occasionally division and campus projects may require additional hours outside of your normal schedule.
Minimum Qualifications
To be eligible for a student title, an individual must be enrolled at the University of Missouri. Enrollment in the summer session is not required if the student was enrolled in the Spring semester and is pre-enrolled for the Fall semester. Selection is contingent upon results of a review with the Office of Institutional Equity, Office of Student Accountability & Support, Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, previous MU appointment history, and reference checks.
Preferred Qualifications
* Experience in teaching group and private lessons
* Valid American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor Certification (WSI)
* Valid American Red Cross CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer and First Aid Certification
Application Materials
Complete application, and upload the following: résumé, class schedule, cover letter, and 3 or more references which must include at least 1 MU supervisor (if applicable). Please provide your MU e-mail address in the contact information section of the application.
Other Information
Learning Outcomes
Expected career readiness competencies gained and/or enhanced from this position include:
* Critical Thinking/Problem Solving:
Exercise sound reasoning to analyze issues, make decisions and overcome problems. The individual is able to obtain, interpret and use knowledge, facts and data in this process and may demonstrate originality and inventiveness.
* Oral/Written Communications:
Articulate thoughts and ideas clearly and effectively in written and oral forms to persons inside and outside of the…
Title: Summer TigerSwim Instructor; Student
Company: University of Missouri System
Location: Columbia, USA
Category:
