Lifeguard

About This Role

Being a lifeguard at the YMCA means ensuring the safety of swimmers, preventing accidents, and fostering a positive environment for all members and visitors. This role is ideal for someone who wants to protect others in the water and contribute to a welcoming community space.

Responsibilities

• Model the core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility; implement character development and YMCA core values in all programs and aspects of center operations
• Continuously scan the pool (every 10 seconds), whirlpool, and sauna areas, checking for safe conditions
• Maintain a high level of alertness at all times
• Complete 2 hours of in-service training a month
• Participate in ongoing training that will be held during operational hours (operational mannequin drops, pool safety checks, CPR checks)
• Enforce all posted rules and any other rules required to ensure the safety of all participants
• Constantly watch the pool and have a rescue tube, whistle, emergency button, and supplemental oxygen barrier mask ready and available at all times, actively scanning 10 x 10
• Ensure the pool deck is free of clutter and perform all maintenance duties assigned by the Aquatic Director
• Test pool chemical levels and report changes to the Aquatics Director immediately
• Fill out all Y accident and incident reports completely and turn them into the Aquatics Director
• Responsible for opening and closing procedures
• Responsible for maintaining the continuity of lap swim and moving participants accordingly
• Be a team player with all staff
• Notify appropriate staff of any unsafe conditions, needed repairs, complaints, accidents, or injuries immediately

Requirements

• Must be at least 16 years of age
• Able to work with diverse groups of people in a friendly and consistent manner
• National CPR, First Aid, Emergency Oxygen, and Lifeguard certification (free training and certification provided)
• Able to pass a physical competency consisting of the following:
  • Swim-Tread-Swim Sequence (without stopping to rest):
    • Jump into the water and totally submerge, resurface then swim 150 yards using the front crawl, breaststroke, or a combination of both (swimming on the back or side is not permitted; swim goggles are allowed)
    • Maintain position at the surface of the water for 2 minutes by treading water using only the legs
    • Swim 50 yards using the front crawl, breaststroke, or a combination of both
  • Timed Event (must be completed in 1 minute and 40 seconds):
    • Starting in the water, swim 20 yards (face may be in or out of the water; swim goggles are not allowed)