Lifeguard - Pelham YMCA

YMCA of the USA; Pelham (AL); On-site; USD 12,000 - 18,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free YMCA membership for you and your

50% discounts on YMCA programs

Flexible scheduling

Opportunities for professional growth

Mission-driven organization

Job summary

Join the YMCA lifeguard team in Pelham, AL, where you'll spend your shifts ensuring water safety, enforcing pool rules, and delivering outstanding member service. You'll monitor chemical levels, assist with emergencies, and work with Head Lifeguards to keep the facility welcoming and safe.

Must be certified and able to swim 300 yards, lift 50 pounds, and thrive in teamwork. Be part of a mission-driven organization that values community impact and professional growth while maintaining a fun,

Qualifications

• Must hold current lifeguard certification (CPR/AED/First Aid) or obtain through YMCA training.
• Ability to swim 300 yards continuously.
• Ability to lift at least 50 pounds.
• Comfortable outdoors and in varying weather conditions.

Responsibilities

• Maintain constant surveillance of swimmers to ensure a safe aquatic environment.
• Enforce pool rules while creating a positive experience for members and guests.
• Respond quickly and confidently to emergencies and provide lifesaving care when needed.
• Monitor and record pool chemical levels to maintain water quality and safety.
• Keep the pool deck and surrounding areas clean, organized, and hazard-free.
• Assist members with questions and provide outstanding customer service.
• Work collaboratively with Head Lifeguards and Aquatics Leadership.
• Open and close the aquatic facility and complete daily operational tasks.

Skills

Lifeguard training

CPR/AED/First Aid

Strong communication

Customer service

Team player

Education

YMCA or American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification (CPR/AED/First Aid)

Job description

Make a Splash This Summer as a Lifeguard with the YMCA!

Looking for a job that's more than just a paycheck? Join our aquatics team and spend your days by the pool, building real-world skills, making friends, and keeping your community safe. As a YMCA Lifeguard, you're not just watching the water—you're making a difference every single shift.

What You'll Be Doing

• Maintain constant surveillance of swimmers to ensure a safe aquatic environment.
• Enforce pool rules while creating a positive and welcoming experience for members and guests.
• Respond quickly and confidently to emergencies and provide appropriate lifesaving care when needed.
• Monitor and record pool chemical levels to maintain water quality and safety.
• Keep the pool deck and surrounding areas clean, organized, and hazard-free.
• Assist members with questions and provide outstanding customer service.
• Work collaboratively with Head Lifeguards and Aquatics Leadership.
• Open and close the aquatic facility and complete daily operational tasks.

Why This Job Is a Great Fit

Whether you're looking for your first job or wanting to build valuable leadership experience, becoming a YMCA Lifeguard is a rewarding opportunity. You'll gain lifesaving skills, develop confidence, build friendships, and make a lasting impact by helping keep your community safe—all while working in an energetic and fun environment.

Perks & Benefits

• Free YMCA membership for you and eligible household members
• 50% discounts on many YMCA programs, including swim lessons, youth sports, childcare, camps, and more
• Flexible scheduling to help balance work, school, and life
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement within the YMCA
• Work for a mission-driven organization that invests in its employees and community

What We're Looking For

• Must be at least 15 years old.
• Responsible, dependable, and attentive to detail.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to remain calm and act decisively in emergency situations.
• Positive attitude and ability to work well as part of a team.
• Commitment to the YMCA's mission and core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.

Qualifications

Requirements

• Current YMCA or American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification (including CPR/AED and First Aid), or the willingness and ability to obtain certification through YMCA-sponsored lifeguard training before employment.
• Ability to swim 300 yards continuously.
• Ability to lift at least 50 pounds.
• Comfortable working indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Expectations

• Arrive on time and prepared for every shift.
• Maintain constant vigilance and proactively identify safety concerns.
• Follow all YMCA safety policies, emergency procedures, and aquatic standards.
• Participate in required trainings and team meetings.
• Help maintain a clean, organized, and professional aquatic facility.
• Deliver exceptional service to every member and guest.

What Success Looks Like

• Swimmers enjoy a safe, welcoming, and well-supervised environment.
• Emergencies are handled calmly, confidently, and according to YMCA standards.
• Members feel supported, respected, and valued.
• The pool area remains clean, organized, and operating efficiently.
• You contribute to a positive team culture and represent the YMCA with professionalism every day.

More Than Just a Job

At the YMCA, lifeguards do more than watch the water—they build confidence, prevent emergencies, and create a safe place where families can have fun together. Every shift is an opportunity to develop lifelong skills, make meaningful connections, and strengthen your community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.