POSITION SUMMARY:

A water safety counselor (lifeguard) maintains safe, clean swimming conditions in the pool, deck, and surrounding areas. They create a safe and positive atmosphere that promotes camper safety and engagement in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures. They are responsible for enforcing the pool rules as outlined in the pool manual, participating in a Lifeguarding rotation, and assisting in instructional swim.

OUR CULTURE:
Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing:we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Active support of our DEIB statement and putting into practice our commitment to equity, diversity, belonging and inclusion. Continue to think about strategies to support diversity goals of the organization.

• Maintains active surveillance of the waterfront area. Is proactive in injury prevention.

• Knows, reviews, and practices all emergency procedures and responds to emergency situations immediately in accordance with YMCA/Red Cross policies and procedures.

• Clean and sanitize campgrounds and supplies in accordance with camp’s safety protocols.

• Completes related reports (i.e. incident and accident reports) as required in a timely manner.

• Oversees and assists with the instruction of swim lessons by counselor staff.

• Teaches swim lessons as needed.

• Maintains camper swim lesson records.

• Must present a professional demeanor in proper attire.

• Maintains effective, positive relationships with the campers, participants and other staff.

• Knows, understands, and consistently applies safety rules, policies and guidelines for the waterfront and aquatic area. Maintains accurate records as required by the YMCA and/or the state Health Department code.

• Performs equipment checks and ensures appropriate equipment is available as needed.

• Checks the waterfront for hazardous conditions when arriving and during shift.

• Cleans waterfront area when not guarding, as required, and takes appropriate action.

• Attends all staff meetings and in-service training.

• Willingness to accept responsibilities and duties other than those assigned.

• Help with all camp activities and participate as a member of the camp staff team.

• Demonstrate/teach the values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility to all campers and staff.

• Follow all camp rules, regulations and policies and enforce them among peers.

• Maintain positive public relations with families, visitors, and the general public at all times.

• Able to visually and audibly identify and respond to environmental and other hazards related to assigned activities.

• Capable of responding appropriately to emergencies and situations requiring first aid and/or CPR.

• Submit all required paperwork on time.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum age of 16 years old.

• Desire and ability to work in a camp setting.

• Certifications: CPR for the Professional Rescuer, AED, and Basic First Aid.

• Current American Red Cross Lifeguard or equivalent.

• Ability to maintain certification-level of physical and mental readiness.

• Good role model, high integrity and professionalism, and adaptable.

• Must demonstrate lifeguard skills in accordance with YMCA standards.

• Committing to support and further our anti-racist work as an organization. Learning about our initiatives and the continuous work and being able to vocalize with members if needed.

• Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community.

Physical Demands:

• Hear noises and work in fast paced environment that requires patience, focus and diligence.

• Meet strength and lifting requirements of 25lbs.

• See and observe all sections of an assigned zone or area of responsibility.