Lifeguard

YMC; Columbia (SC); On-site; USD 14,000 - 21,000; Full time

Job summary

YMCA is seeking a Lifeguard to ensure the safety and well-being of swimmers and guests in the pool area. You will monitor activities, enforce rules, and respond to emergencies with water rescues and first aid as required.

The role requires current lifeguard, CPR, First Aid, AED, and oxygen certifications or a plan to obtain them within 60 days. Flexible hours include evenings, weekends, and holidays in a community YMCA setting.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 16 years old.
• Strong swimming and water rescue skills.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Current lifeguard certification or willingness to obtain one.
• CPR, First Aid, AED, and Oxygen certifications required within 60 days.
• Passion for YMCA mission and service to the community.

Responsibilities

• Monitor swimmers and pool activity to prevent accidents and emergencies.
• Respond swiftly to aquatic emergencies and perform water rescues.
• Provide first aid and CPR as needed to stabilize individuals.
• Conduct routine pool checks and maintain safety equipment.
• Enforce pool rules and manage capacity to ensure safety.
• Communicate with patrons and staff and coordinate with team during drills.
• Assist with daily cleaning and maintenance of the aquatic facility.

Skills

Strong swimming skills

Water rescue techniques

Observation/situational awareness

Flexible hours

Education

Lifeguard certification (or willingness to obtain)

CPR certification

First Aid certification

AED certification

Oxygen training

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:The Lifeguard plays a crucial role and is responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of YMCA members and guests using our aquatic facilities, and in accordance with the YMCA policies and procedures.ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:Monitor swimmers and activities in the pool area to prevent accidents, injuries, and emergencies. Maintain constant vigilance and enforce safety rules and regulations to ensure the well-being of all pool users.Act swiftly and effectively in response to aquatic emergencies, including drowning, injuries, and medical incidents. Perform water rescues and provide first aid, CPR, or other life-saving techniques as needed to stabilize and care for individuals in distress.Conduct routine checks of the pool environment, equipment, and facilities to identify and address potential hazards or safety concerns. Ensure that all safety equipment, including rescue buoys, life jackers, and first aid supplies, are readily available and in working order.Maintain order and control in the pool area by enforcing facility policies, rules, and guidelines. Monitor pool capacity and regulate admission to prevent overcrowding and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all patrons.Communicate effectively with patrons, staff, and supervisors to provide information, assistance, and direction as needed. Respond to inquiries, concerns, and feedback from pool users in a courteous and professional manner.Collaborate with fellow lifeguards, swim instructors, and facility staff to coordinate activities, schedules, and emergency response procedures. Participate in regular staff meetings, training sessions, and drills to maintain readiness and proficiency in lifeguarding skills.Assist with routine cleaning and maintenance tasks in the aquatic facility, including skimming the pool surface, vacuuming pool bottoms, and sanitizing pool decks and locker rooms. Report any maintenance issues or equipment malfunctions to appropriate personnel for prompt resolution.Perform other duties as assigned.YMCA COMPETENCIES:Mission Advancement - Accepts and demonstrates the Ys values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruit volunteers and build effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fundraising.Collaboration - Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others.Operational Effectiveness - Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience. Establish goals, clarifies tasks, plans work and actively participates in meetings. Follows budgeting policies and procedures, and reports all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members.Personal Growth - Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change, and seeks opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths and limitations and how they impact relationships. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.QUALIFICATIONS:Minimum age of 16.Strong swimming skills and proficiency in water rescue techniques.Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.Excellent observation and situational awareness abilities.Current lifeguard certification from a recognized certifying agency (e.g., American Red Cross), or willingness to acquire one, required.Certifications required within 60 days of employment: CPR, First Aid, AED, Oxygen.Ability to complete the following before 1st shift: Child Abuse Prevention training; Bloodborne Pathogens, Athlete Protection, and Sexual Harassment training.Passion for the YMCA mission and commitment to serving the community.WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:Must be able to perform all physical requirements of the position; including walking, standing, bending, reaching and lifting up to 50 lbs. at a time.