Position Summary (2-3 sentences):
Under the direction of the Aquatics Director, the Lifeguard (LG) maintains safe swimming conditions in the pool, on the pool deck, and surrounding areas. The LG creates a safe and positive atmosphere that promotes member safety and engagement in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures.
Duties and Responsibilities:
1. Ensures the safety of every individual at the YMCA, both in and around the pool as well as the rest of the facility. Is always rescue ready, this means in guard suit/shorts with whistle, rescue tube and first aid pack.
2. Knows/reviews all emergency procedures and responds to emergency situations immediately in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures. Completes incident and accident reports as necessary.
3. Enforce regulations pertaining to showers, food and drink, conduct.
4. Maintains effective, positive relationships with members, participants, and other staff.
5. Knows, understands, and consistently applies safety rules, policies, and guidelines for the pool and aquatic area.
6. Performs equipment checks and ensures appropriate equipment is available as needed.
7. Checks the pool and area for hazardous conditions when arriving and when pool is opening or closing.
8. Lifeguards are not permitted to take part in any activity that would distract them from watching the pool. This includes doing homework and instructing or talking with members or other staff. No cell phones or other communication devices (e.g., Apple Watch) are allowed on the pool deck.
9. Attends all staff meetings and training as required.
10. Report 10 minutes prior to scheduled shift in proper uniform (trunks/suit, whistle, and a YMCA provided lifeguard shirt).
11. Must actively scan the entire pool, including the bottom, at all times.
12. Must secure a substitute lifeguard when unable to fulfill assigned duties and notify supervisor of changes. Sub sheets must be filled out 2 weeks prior to sub needed date. It is the responsibility of the staff to get their shift covered.
13. Other duties as assigned
Qualifications (Include education, years’ experience and technical requirements if needed)
1. Minimum age of 16.
2. Certifications: Red Cross Lifeguarding or equivalent.
3. Ability to maintain certification-level of physical and mental readiness.
4. Must demonstrate lifeguard skills in accordance with YMCA and Red Cross standards.
YMCA Competencies (Leader)
Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Y’s values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fund-raising.
Collaboration: Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the person’s point of view and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others.
Operational Effectiveness: Makes sound judgements, transfers learning from one situation to another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience. Establishes goals, certifies tasks, plans work, and actively participates in meetings. Follows budgeting policies and procedures and reports all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members.
Personal Growth: Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change and seeks opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths, and limitations, and how they impact relationships. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well. Uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.
Physical Demands:
Tasks
- Must be able to remain in a stationary position frequently
- Walking, moving, stretching frequently; must be able to react quickly to changing conditions
- Occasionally operates a computer and other office equipment
- Must be able to lift, drag, carry at least 50 lbs
- Kneels, crawls or stoops down frequently
