Masters Coach (Full-Time)

DESCRIPTION

The Quicksilver Swimming (QSS) Masters team is a diverse and social group of adult swimmers, ranging from adult learners to former collegiate athletes. In addition to a year-round fitness program offering daily workouts and monthly social events, QSS Masters runs a summer adult learn-to-swim (ALTS) program, sharing the life-saving skill of swimming with the surrounding community in south San Jose. Our mission is to create an inclusive, supportive, and motivating environment where swimmers can improve their skills, build connections, and leave every practice with a sense of accomplishment. Our core coaching philosophies are:

1. Form + Fitness = Fun

2. It’s never too late to learn something new

We are looking for an experienced Full-Time Masters Coach who shares our values and is passionate about community-building, teaching the latest and safest swimming techniques, and fostering a positive team environment. The Full-Time Masters Coach is eager to make a lasting impact on our community, and is excited to teach and guide adult learners into the world of competitive swimming.

RESPONSIBILITIES

MASTERS TEAM

• Provide on-deck coaching for up to 12 practices weekly, ensuring a safe and productive training environment that caters to a wide range of abilities and speeds. 

• Instruct swimmers and provide regular feedback on stroke technique, race strategies, and training methods.

• Foster a welcoming and inclusive team atmosphere; engage with and motivate swimmers to improve technique, endurance, and confidence.

• Maintain excellent communication with program participants and staff

• Collaborate with facility staff and coaches to ensure smooth program operations.

• Promote team participation in local and regional swim competitions and open water events.

ADULT LEARN-TO-SWIM (ALTS)

• Lead in-water instruction for ALTS classes

• Supervise and strengthen skills of the assisting ALTS instructors, ensuring high safety standards and successful program delivery; take corrective action when necessary

• Keep daily record of student progress for all program participants (skill sheet provided)

IDEAL CANDIDATE

REQUIRED

• 5+ years of swim coaching experience, with competitive swimming background (club, collegiate, or professional level).

• Reliable, punctual, and a morning person who thrives in a dynamic outdoor environment.

• Strong interpersonal skills, with customer service experience. 

• Independent and solutions-oriented, with the desire to contribute to a collective team vision.

• Up-to-date knowledge of current swimming techniques and training methods.

• Excellent communicator who can engage with swimmers, staff, and the broader community effectively. Must be responsive during regular work hours.

• Passion for developing swimmers at all levels, from beginners to competitive athletes, and for creating a positive, motivating environment.

• Background check.

• Must meet the following physical abilities: 

  • Able to lift up to 50 lbs unassisted

  • Able to recognize and respond to distress signals

  • Able to sit, stand, kneel, walk, and speak loudly for extended periods

  • Able to swim in both shallow and deep water for extended periods

  • Able to demonstrate drills and techniques on land and in the water

PREFERRED 

• Previous Masters coaching and/or adult group instruction experience

• Experience with group and private lessons. 

• Experience with SportsEngine, Google Workspace, and Slack.

• American Red Cross Lifeguard and/or Water Safety certification.

LICENSES & CERTIFICATIONS

• Valid USA Swimming Coach membership (in good standing), or a valid USMS Coach membership (preferred Level 2 or above).

• Valid American Red Cross CPR/AED/First Aid certification (or ability to obtain within 90 days of hire).

• USMS ALTS Instructor certification (or ability to obtain by end of May 2025).

COMPENSATION

This position is for full-time exempt employment.  Full-time employees are eligible to elect the following benefits: retirement, medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications. 

The candidate will fill staffing vacancies as needed, and will work up to 22 hours on-deck per week, comprised of morning practices (between 5:45 - 10:30 a.m.), midday practices (11:45 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.), evening practices (7:15-9:00 p.m.), and Saturday morning practices (7:15 - 9:15 a.m.). During the summer ALTS season, the candidate will work up to an additional 6 hours in-person per week leading the ALTS program.  Employees may also opt to teach private lessons at the facility.

Employee amenities include free swimming access at designated locations.

HOW TO APPLY

Send a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references to the current Quicksilver Masters Head Coach, Megan Waters at megan@swimqss.org. References should be able to speak to the candidate’s character and coaching ability.