MAKE A REAL DIFFERENCE IN HAMILTON
We’re looking for a passionate Adaptive Aquatics Specialist to lead and grow our Special Ability program, and to bring it to organizations and families across Hamilton who may not yet know it exists. This is not a typical swim instructor role. You’ll spend the majority of your time in the pool delivering individualized adaptive lessons, while also building meaningful partnerships with schools, therapy clinics, rehab centres, and community organizations. You’ll also teach neurotypical swim classes as we continue growing Special Ability enrollment.
WHAT YOU’LL DO
- Deliver 30 and 45-minute adaptive swim lessons for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), sensory processing differences, cerebral palsy, developmental delays, motor coordination challenges, and other physical and cognitive disabilities
- Teach neurotypical swim classes to fill your schedule while Special Ability enrollment grows
- Build and maintain relationships with organizations serving people with disabilities —schools, therapy clinics, rehabilitation centres, community organizations, and healthcare providers
- Represent Shining Stars Swim School as a trusted adaptive aquatics resource in the Hamilton community
- Develop individualized plans in collaboration with families, caregivers, and referring healthcare professionals
- Track swimmer progress and communicate meaningfully and regularly with families and guardians
- Contribute to growing our Special Ability program through community outreach and referral relationships
- Maintain a safe, inclusive, and trauma-informed pool environment at all times
REQUIRED CREDENTIALS
- National Lifeguard (NL) — Lifesaving Society certification, current and valid
- Standard First Aid with CPR-C or higher (WSIB-approved provider)
- Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC) — required prior to start date
- Demonstrated hands-on experience working with individuals with developmental and/or physical disabilities
- 2+ years of lifeguard & swim instructor experience
ASSETS (STRONG PREFERENCE)
- Background in physiotherapy, occupational therapy, special education, or a related clinical field
- HIGH FIVE® Principles of Healthy Child Development (PHCD) — or willingness to complete upon hire
- Swim Whisperers® certification or equivalent adaptive aquatics training (not required we will provide our Adapted Aquatics training)
WHO YOU ARE
- Genuinely passionate about adaptive recreation and making aquatics accessible to everyone
- A natural relationship-builder who is comfortable reaching out to healthcare professionals, educators, and community organizations
- Patient, empathetic, and skilled at building trust with swimmers with complex needs, their families, and caregivers
- Proactive and self-directed — you see a gap in the community and you go fill it
- Experienced adapting instruction in real time to meet each swimmer’s needs
- A strong communicator both in and out of the pool
- Reliable, professional, and ready to take ownership of a program that matters
COMPENSATION & WHAT WE OFFER
- 25–30 guaranteed pool hours per week — consistent, year-round
- 5–10 hours per week dedicated to community outreach
- Be part of the growth of a female-built and led local small business
- A fun, outgoing team that loves what they do
- The opportunity to build and lead a specialized program with real, lasting community impact
Salary: Based on Qualifications and Experience - Full-Time Permanent
HOW TO APPLY
Please send your resume and a brief cover letter telling us about your experience with adaptive swimming or working with individuals with disabilities. We’d love to hear what draws you to this type of work.
Email: [email protected]
We are an equal opportunity employer committed to building an inclusive and accessible workplace. Accommodations are available throughout the hiring process in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). If you require accommodation, please let us know and we will work with you to meet your needs.
Pay: From $45,000.00 per year
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
