Lifeguard

Position description

To provide for the welfare and safety of all participants in and around the swimming pool.

Duties and Responsibilities

Must be mentally alert to dangerous situations in order to assure safety of all swimmers. Must be able to move with the use of both arms and legs and properly use aquatic equipment to rescue a 200-pound person. Must be able to read, write and do basic math. Must be able to remain alert in humid and hot conditions. Must be able to move to various locations, including in and around the swimming pool and an elevated lifeguard station. Must be able to communicate verbally, including projecting the voice across distances. Must be able to handle irate, complaining individuals without internalizing or personalizing comments made. Remain physically able to demonstrate and perform rescue and lifesaving skills. Responsible for the rescue and emergency care of any accident victim in and out of the pool. Responsible for preventing accidents by encouraging situations that are within guideline of established safety procedures. Responsible for maintaining skills necessary for preventive lifeguarding, water rescues, CPR, First Aid, dry land accident care. Responsible for attending monthly in-service training. Responsible for abiding by Y policies and pool rules and all state, county and city health codes applicable to swimming pools. Responsible for being on deck prior to work assignments and keep track of one’s own work hours on a time sheet. Responsible for finding a qualified substitute in event a substitute is needed. Responsible for following prescribed daily pool maintenance duties as outlined, including pool attendance. Responsible for locking and securing all pool doors when pool is closed. Responsible for attending all required training or certification events. Responsible for walking or sitting on deck during guard assignments. Responsible for wearing rescue equipment, staff uniform and whistle while on duty. Responsible for notifying supervisor of any broken or unsafe equipment and taking it out of service until repairs are made. Report specific problems or needs to the Aquatic Director. Perform other duties as deemed necessary by Aquatic Director for reaching goals within the purpose and mission of the Y. Develop meaningful and sustainable relationships with members, donors and volunteers. EFFECT ON END RESULTS: The effectiveness of the incumbent’s fulfillment of the position should be measured by the morale of the employed and volunteer staff and their effectiveness with people. The ability to take charge in the absence of supervision and to see that the aquatic family is run efficiently and safely. Sound administration of the affairs of the Aquatic Department is evidenced in coordinating programs, good public relations, accurate records and clean, attractive facility.

Requirements

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Must be certified in PR/CPR, AED, O2, and First Aid. (Training provided by the Y, if needed) Must 16 years of age. YMCA Lifeguard or certification by another nationally recognized organization. (Training provided by the Y, if needed) Must possess a cooperative spirit to character development by promoting and demonstrating caring, honesty, respect and responsibility to staff, lay leaders, Y members, program participants and the general public. Must have ability to relate with pool patrons in a positive manner. Must be professional, alert, courteous and tactful. Must be serious in their manner toward job responsibilities and have an aptitude for thinking clearly in emergency situations. Must have strong water skills and maintain top physical fitness.