Lifeguard

The YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas; Smithfield (VA); On-site; USD 17,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

The YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas is seeking a Lifeguard to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all pool patrons. Under supervision, the Lifeguard will monitor the pool, enforce rules, and respond to emergencies according to YMCA procedures.

Qualified candidates hold YMCA Lifeguard certification or Red Cross with YMCA transition within 6 months, plus CPR/First Aid/AED/O2. Age minimum is 15, with background checks completed. The role emphasizes service to members and staff across the center.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 15 years old with required certifications; 16 for YMCA.
• YMCA lifeguard certification or transition from Red Cross within 6 months of hire.
• Certification in CPR/First Aid/AED/O2.
• Complete trainings: NEO, Bloodborne Pathogens, CAP, Sexual Harassment annually.
• Satisfactory background checks including Child Protective Services check.

Responsibilities

• Maintain vigilance to ensure pool safety and prevent incidents.
• Follow emergency procedures and respond immediately per YMCA policies.
• Build positive relationships with members, guests and staff.
• Enforce pool rules fairly and maintain safety records as required.
• Know emergency equipment and ensure area is safe and obstruction-free.
• Attend staff meetings and trainings; support center operations and EOP.

Skills

Lifeguard vigilance

Emergency response

Customer service

Team collaboration

Communication

Education

YMCA Lifeguard Certification

CPR/First Aid/AED/O2 Certification

Job description

General Function

Under the supervision of the designated supervisor, and in harmony with the mission and purpose of the established policies and goals of the YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas, the Lifeguard is responsible for the safety of all patrons in the pool area. With an emphasis on ensuring the highest quality service to members and guests, theLifeguardwill work with all staff to welcome, connect, support, and engage all members, guests,and staff.

Qualifications

1. Minimum of 15 years of age (with Red Cross certification; 16 for YMCA. If you are 15 years of age, a Work Permit will be required prior to starting employment).
2. YMCA lifeguard certification or if Red Cross certified, switch over to YMCA within 6 months of hire.
3. Certification in CPR/First Aid/AED/O2.
4. Complete and maintain required trainings to include but not limited to: New Employee Orientation (NEO), Bloodborne Pathogens, Child Abuse Prevention (CAP), and Sexual Harassment upon hire and annually thereafter.
5. Satisfactory completion of a criminal background check and Child Protective Services check.

Essential Functions

1. Support the mission, vision and goals of the YMCA.
2. Promote a professional work environment through character development by modeling the values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.
3. Lead in a manner that advances our cause to strengthen the foundations of community through programs that focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.
4. Maintain vigilance without lapses in concentration.
5. Knows/reports all emergency procedures and responds to emergency situations immediately in accordance with YMCA policies, procedures, and the “safe-in-six” model. Completes related reports as required.
6. Maintains effective, positive relationships with the members, participants and other staff.
7. Knows, understands, and consistently applies safety rules, policies and guidelines for the pool and aquatic area. Maintains accurate records as required by the YMCA and/or the state Health Department code.
8. Wear proper attire:
   1. Bathing suit (must be one piece)
   2. Guard shirt
   3. Whistle/Lanyard
   4. Rescue tube and CPR mask
   5. Water shoes, sandals or flip flops (no street shoes)
   6. No pants
9. Lifeguard should be positioned to maintain 180 degree scanning of pool/zone at all times.
10. Be familiar with the entire aquatic environment and on each shift make sure all emergency equipment is available and ready for use. Ensure that aquatic environment is free of obstructions and safe for participant use.
11. Perform chemical checks when not guarding, as required, and takes appropriate action.
12. Staff must be at least 18 years of age to enter the pump room, and must be adequately trained to perform chemical related duties.
13. Enforce all pool rules with all patrons in a fair, polite, and consistent manner.
14. Responsible for maintaining all relative certifications.
15. Promote and participate in YMCA fundraising efforts to include Annual Support and United Way Campaigns.
16. Follow mandated abuse reporting requirements.
17. Act as a leader in emergency situations. Report any accidents or incidents according to Emergency Communication Action Plan.
18. Ensure all members, guests, and program participants are in a safe environment and actively follow center Emergency Operations Plan (EOP).
19. Attend staff meetings and trainings as scheduled.
20. Follow department Association Standards.
21. Carry out other related duties as deemed necessary by the Aquatics Department and center operations to ensure an excellent member experience.

YMCA Competencies (Leader)

Engaging Community, Communication & Influence, Inclusion, Collaboration, Functional Expertise

Skills and Ability Requirements

1. Ability to respond effectively to inquiries or complaints.
2. Ability to pass lifeguard water test and meet requirements of ongoing drills.
3. Must be able to remain alert.
4. Must be able to sit or stand for extended periods.
5. Ability to recognize visual and verbal distress signs/actions from potential drowning victim within 10 seconds.
6. Ability to respond to victim in water within 10 seconds.
7. Ability to respond to an emergency situation including but not limited to: water emergency, respiratory or cardiac emergency, minor/major first aid and Code Adam/missing person.
8. Adequate ability to hear noises and distinguish distress signals.
9. Ability to continuously scan all areas of the pool with clear vision.
10. Ability to perform strenuous physical tasks necessary for a water rescue.
11. Ability to communicate verbally, including projecting voice across distance in normal and loud situations.

Effect on End Results

1. The membership growth and retention plan for the center is achieved.
2. A high degree of member satisfaction is achieved as measured by Net Promoters.
3. A positive image of the YMCA is portrayed to members, staff, volunteers and the community.
4. A pleasant and comfortable working environment is maintained for all staff.
5. Relationships are strengthened through intentional interactions.
6. The facility will be safe, clean and an enjoyable place as measured by Q Checks and Risk Management Audits.
7. Superior quality standards are met as evidenced by department’s Association Audit Score.