Our Lifeguardscreate a safe and positive atmosphere that welcomes and respects all individuals while promoting and maintain safe swimming conditions in the pool, deck, and surrounding areas in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures. This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Maintains active surveillance of the pool area.
• Knows and reviews all emergency procedures and responds to emergency situations immediately in accordance with YMCA policies, procedures, and the “safe-in-six” model; completes related reports as required.
• Responds to challenges with possible solutions in a timely manner.
• Knows, understands, and consistently applies safety rules, policies, and guidelines for the pool and aquatic area.
• Remains calm and objective when under pressure or when challenged by others.
• 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 pool for hazardous conditions when arriving.
• Performs chemical testing when not guarding, as required, and takes appropriate action.

LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES:

• Engaging Community: Builds bridges with others in the community to ensure the Y’s work is community-focused and welcoming of all, providing community benefit.
• Communication & Influence: Listens and expresses self effectively and in a way that engages, inspires, and builds commitment to the Y’s cause.
• Inclusion: Values all people for their unique talents, and takes an active role in promoting practices that support diversity, inclusion, and global work, as well as cultural competence.
• Critical Thinking & Decision Making: Makes informed decisions based on logic, data, and sound judgment.
• Emotional Maturity: Demonstrates ability to understand and manage emotions effectively in all situations.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum age of 16
• Certifications: Basic life support or professional rescuer CPR/AED, first aid, and emergency oxygen administration (Required)
• Current YMCA Lifeguard or equivalent
• Child abuse prevention training within 30 days of hire date
• Ability to maintain certification-level physical and mental readiness
• Must demonstrate lifeguard skills in accordance with YMCA standards
• Must become First Aid, CPR, and AED certified preferred. Training provided.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

HOURS: FLEXIBLE – AS NEEDED

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Physically perform all skills required of a lifeguard.
• Hear noises and distress signals in the aquatic environment, including in the water and anywhere around the zone of responsibility. Remain alert with no lapses of consciousness.
• See and observe all sections of an assigned zone or area of responsibility.

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.

Prospective employees will receive consideration without discrimination because of race, religion, color, sex, age, marital status, national origin, disability, veteran status or other legally protected characteristic. The YMCA of Central Virginia is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Substance Free Workplace.