What are the responsibilities and job description for the Waterfront Lifeguard - Summer Camp (Miami-Dade) position at YMCA of South Florida?
Job description:
Under the direction of the Aquatics Director and/or Program Director, the Waterfront Lifeguard is responsible for maintaining the highest level of safety and swimming conditions for all participants in open water and surrounding areas. This position focuses first on preventing accidents and second on responding to emergencies quickly and efficiently. The Waterfront Lifeguard also supports participant satisfaction, retention, and positive relationship-building through professional supervision and customer service.
Essential Functions:
- Arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the beginning of each work shift.
- Ensure all necessary lifeguard equipment is available during work time and properly stored when not on duty.
- Maintain the safety of all participants in the open water by supervising programming in accordance with YMCA policies and guidelines.
- Treat minor accidents as necessary and take appropriate action for all incidents and accidents, including completion of proper YMCA incident and accident forms.
- Develop and maintain professional and courteous relationships with participants and open water site staff.
- Attend meetings and professional trainings as required by the Aquatics Director and/or Program Director.
- Report any condition or practice that may threaten the health or safety of participants, staff, or guests.
- Use preventive lifeguarding techniques to minimize or eliminate hazardous situations.
- Apply the rules and policies outlined in the YMCA Lifeguard Manual.
- Assist with schedule coverage and emergency substitutions as needed.
- Perform other duties as assigned based on program needs.
Position Profile:
- Avid swimmer with a strong commitment to water safety and drowning prevention.
- Passionate about providing excellent customer service and creating a positive aquatic experience for participants.
- High-energy, outgoing, and able to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
- Comfortable with public speaking and engaging with youth, families, and staff.
Qualifications, Skills and Abilities / Position Requirements:
Education and Experience:
- High School diploma or GED equivalent.
Certificates and Licenses:
- Red Cross Waterfront Lifeguard Certification.
- YMCA Lifeguard Certification or Red Cross Lifeguard Certification.
- First Aid/CPR/AED, CPRO, and oxygen administration certification.
Other Skills and Abilities:
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to interact effectively with individuals at all levels.
- Must be organized and detail-oriented.
- Strong communication skills, including the ability to communicate effectively with youth, adults, staff, and open water site representatives.
- Ability to respond quickly and appropriately to safety issues and emergencies.
- Must wear YMCA-provided shirt and suit.
Work Environment:
- Primarily works in an outdoor open water environment.
- May be exposed to blood-borne pathogens.
Physical Demands:
- Ability to lift, move, set up, and store equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Must be able to demonstrate technical proficiency in lifeguarding rescue techniques.
- Must be able to swim 500 yards/meters nonstop and tread water for two minutes without using hands.
- Must be able to hear without aid and visually identify victims in the water.
As a condition of employment, you will be required to submit to and satisfactorily clear a thorough Level II fingerprinting background screening.
As a Drug-Free Workplace, all new hires must successfully complete a drug test. Please note Medical Marijuana cards do not exempt you from successfully passing your drug test.
The YMCA of South Florida is committed to the policy of Equal Opportunity prohibiting discrimination in the workplace because of race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, political affiliation, age or disability.
In accordance with House Bill 531 (2025) the Department of Children and Families requires employers to make the “Care Provider Screening Clearinghouse Education and Awareness” website link: https://info.flclearinghouse.com available to all potential candidates receiving a background check via the Clearinghouse.
Job Types: Part-time, Seasonal
Pay: $25.00 - $28.00 per hour
Expected hours: 30.0 per week
Application Question(s):
- Do you currently hold a valid Red Cross Waterfront Lifeguard Certification or equivalent?
- Do you hold a current YMCA Lifeguard Certification or Red Cross Lifeguard Certification?
- Do you currently hold valid certifications in First Aid, CPR/AED, CPRO (or equivalent), and Oxygen Administration?
Work Location: In person
Salary : $25 - $28