Lifeguard

YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 20,000 - 29,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free YMCA Membership

Flexible Hours

Free training and certification

Job summary

YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago is seeking a Lifeguard to keep swimmers safe, respond to emergencies, and create a welcoming pool environment. No prior lifeguarding experience needed; training provided.

You must be at least 15, complete Aquatics Academy or have current YMCA/ARC certifications, and be able to meet physical requirements. Flexible hours and free YMCA membership are offered.

Join a mission-driven team and grow your skills while staying active.

Qualifications

• Must have or complete YMCA Aquatics Academy or equivalent certifications (First Aid/CPR/AED).
• Minimum education: high school diploma or equivalent.
• Strong swimming and water-rescue abilities required.

Responsibilities

• Keep swimmers safe, respond to emergencies, and maintain a positive pool environment.
• Deliver excellent customer service to YMCA members and guests.

Skills

Strong swimming

CPR

First Aid

AED usage

Communication

Calm under pressure

Observation skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Looking for a fun, flexible job where you can stay active, make a difference, and enjoy great perks? Join our team as a Lifeguard and become a community hero! No prior lifeguarding experience? No problem! We’ll help you gain the skills and confidence to thrive in this role.

Why This Job Is For YOU

• Great Pay: Starting at $18.00/hour
• All Ages Welcome: Whether you’re 15 or 50+, this is the perfect job for students, retirees, and everyone in between
• Flexible Hours: Work around school, family, or other commitments
• No Experience Needed: We’ll provide free training and certification!
• Free YMCA Membership: Enjoy access to our facilities and discounts on programs
• Build Your Future: Gain skills, certifications, and opportunities to grow your career

Morning Guards: Sunday-Saturday 5:45AM - 12PM
Evening Guards: Sunday - Saturday 3:45PM - 9PM

What You’ll Do

• Keep swimmers safe, respond to emergencies, and ensure a positive pool environment
• Deliver excellent customer service to our members and guests

Requirements

• Must be at least 15 years old
• Must successfully complete the YMCA’s Aquatics Academy training program resulting in certification or have current YMCA or American Red Cross certification as well as current First Aid, AED, CPR and Oxygen Administration certifications.
• Physical mobility to properly use aquatic equipment to rescue a 200 lb. person and meet other physical requirements required for job certification.
• Must be mentally alert to dangerous situations in order to assure the safety of all swimmers.
• Must be physically and mentally able to respond to emergencies and administer CPR and First Aid effectively.
• Ability to meet physical requirements based on job description

Why Join Us?

Be part of a welcoming, mission-driven team that values your time, skills, and passion for helping others. Whether you’re starting your first job or looking for a meaningful way to stay active, this role is for you.

Child Abuse Prevention

- Supports the YMCA’s commitment to child abuse prevention by:

• Reporting any items that may provide a health or safety hazard to staff, members or guests to your supervisor
• Following all policies and procedures related to keeping children safe in our facilities and programs, including those related to the monitoring and supervision of children
• Reporting any suspicious behavior and violation of policy and procedures to your supervisor
• Completing all child abuse prevention training as required

Qualifications

Required Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent.

Required Experience

• Previous lifeguarding experience preferred.
• Experience in a customer service role or similar environment.

Required Skills And Abilities

• Strong swimming skills and ability to perform water rescues.
• Knowledge of CPR, First Aid, and AED usage.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to remain calm and act quickly in emergency situations.
• Attention to detail and strong observational skills.