Lifeguard, Campus Recreation

Wake Forest University; United States; On-site; USD 16,531 - 20,664; Part time

Job summary

Wake Forest University is seeking lifeguards to ensure the safety of patrons at their natatorium. Responsibilities include constant surveillance of the pool, responding to emergencies, and maintaining a professional demeanor with guests.

Applicants must be at least 16 years old and obtain American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification. Preferred qualifications include CPO Certification and experience in teaching swim lessons. This role demands physical fitness and the ability to remain alert.

Qualifications

• Minimum age of 16; under 18 requires work permit.
• Pass lifeguard water test and demonstrate proficiency in swimming.
• Remain alert and able to respond to emergencies.

Responsibilities

• Maintain constant surveillance of the pool area.
• Respond to emergencies according to WFU policies.
• Complete related reports as required.

Skills

Lifeguarding principles

Emergency response

Surveillance

Communication

Education

American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification

Certified Pool Operator (CPO) Certification

American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor (WSI) Certification

Job description

Job Description

Lifeguards provide personal safety for any individual using the Wake Forest natatorium, including the swimming pool, Vortex whirlpool, locker rooms, showers, and surrounding areas, through preventative guarding methods. Lifeguards must respond according to sound lifeguarding principles to any emergency situation that may occur in the pool or surrounding area.

Essential Functions

• Maintain constant surveillance of the pool area.
• Know and review all emergency procedures; respond to emergencies immediately in accordance with WFU policies and procedures.
• Complete related reports as required.
• Greet and remain professional with all patrons and departmental staff.
• Apply safety rules, policies, and guidelines consistently for the pool and aquatic area.
• Perform equipment checks and ensure appropriate equipment is available when needed.
• Check the pool for hazardous conditions upon arriving and departing each shift.
• Attend all staff meetings, in‑services, and training as required.
• Wear the proper lifeguard uniform and never leave the pool unattended.
• Remain alert and focused on the pool area while on duty.
• Report needs or concerns to the Coordinator of Aquatics.
• Perform additional tasks as directed by the Coordinator of Aquatics, other professional staff, or the Campus Recreation Executive Director.
• Represent WFU in a highly professional manner at all times.

Required Education, Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

• Minimum age of 16. If under 18, must obtain a work permit.
• Current or ability to obtain American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification before position commencement.
• Pre‑employment testing of lifeguarding knowledge and skills, including skill demonstrations for certification through the American Red Cross Lifeguard.
• Demonstrate proficiency in swim 300 yards continuously, tread water for 2 minutes without hands, and complete a timed event within 1 minute and 40 seconds.

Preferred Education, Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

• Certified Pool Operator (CPO) Certification.
• Experience teaching swim lessons.
• American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor (WSI) Certification.
• Experience working with youth.

Physical Requirements

• Pass the lifeguard water test.
• Remain alert during duty.
• Sit or stand for extended periods.
• Ability to hear noises and distinguish distress signals.
• Continuous visual scan of all areas of the pool with clear vision.
• Perform strenuous physical tasks necessary for a water rescue.
• Communicate verbally, including projecting voice across distance in normal and loud situations.

Environmental Conditions

Work in an area that is over 80°F with high humidity.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all qualified candidates to apply without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, genetic information, disability, and military or veteran status.