What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lifeguard position at YMCA?
Under the supervision of the Aquatics Director the Lifeguard is responsible for maintaining the highest level of safety and swimming conditions for all patrons in the pool, on the deck and surrounding areas; first, by preventing accidents and second, by responding to an emergency quickly and efficiently. The Lifeguard is
responsible for building positive relationships with members in addition to member satisfaction and retention.
Essential Functions/ Job Duties:
- Arrive at least 15 minutes prior to beginning of work shift.
- Ensure that necessary lifeguard equipment is on deck during work time and put away when not on duty.
- Ensure the safety of all members in the pool area by supervising all YMCA recreational swimming and/or swim lessons in accordance with YMCA policies and guidelines.
- Perform regular water testing and maintain proper chemistry as scheduled. Report any concerns to the facility manager.
- Treat minor accidents as necessary and take appropriate actions for all incidents/ accidents and follow up with all proper YMCA incident/accident forms.
- Develop and maintain professional and courteous relations with parents, program participants, and pool site management staff .
- Maintain current certification and CPR.
- Attend meetings and/or professional training as required or requested by Aquatics Director.
- Bring to the Aquatic Director's attention any condition or practice which may be considered a threat to the health and safety of members and guests.
- Use preventive life guarding techniques to minimize or eliminate hazardous situations.
- Apply rules and policies of the YMCA Lifeguard Manual.
- Assist in creating schedules and emergency substituting.
- Conveys information on programs and schedules to members.
- Other duties as assigned based on family center requirements or needs.
Candidate Profile:
- Avid swimmer, passionate about the sport of swimming, dedicated to the cause of water safety and drowning prevention.
- High-energy personality, outgoing and enjoys working in a fast-paced environment.
- Comfortable with public speaking.
- Innate desire to provide excellent customer service to participants, which will result in an exceptional aquatic experience.
Qualifications, Skills and Abilities/ Position Requirements:
Education and Experience:
- Pursuing High School diploma or GED.
Certificates and Licenses:
- YMCA Lifeguard Certified or Red Cross Lifeguard Certified.
- First Aid/CPR/ AED
- CPRO and oxygen administration certified or within 30 days or first shift.
Other skills and abilities:
Must be at least 16 years of age.
- Bilingual, English and Spanish, a plus.
- Excellent interpersonal skills; ability to interact with individuals at all levels.
- Must be organized and detail oriented.
- Excellent communication skills; ability to communicate effectively with youth and adults including program participants, parents, volunteers, staff, and representatives of contract pool sites.
- Ability to respond to safety and emergency situations.
- Must wear branch-provided YMCA lifeguard shirt.
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 Clearing House Education and Awareness” website link : https://info.flclearinghouse.com available to all potential candidates via the Clearinghouse.