Ocean Lifeguard (3 FT Positions, 1 Will Call Position)

City of Deerfield Beach; Deerfield Beach (FL); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Deerfield Beach is seeking an Ocean Rescue Lifeguard to provide specialized rescue services at public beaches. Responsibilities include patrolling beaches, enforcing regulations, and responding to emergencies while maintaining safety for all patrons. Candidates must possess CPR and First Aid certifications and be prepared for physically demanding work in various environmental conditions.

Qualifications

• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license.
• Must pass swimming and rescue skill tests.
• Must be enrolled in a First Responder Course by the end of the probationary period.

Responsibilities

• Patrol assigned areas of the beach to ensure swimmer safety.
• Respond to emergency situations and assist distressed swimmers.
• Enforce rules and regulations to maintain order at the beach.

Skills

Knowledge of water safety rules

Knowledge of water rescue techniques

Skill in CPR and first aid

Ability to react quickly in emergencies

Ability to interact effectively with the public

Education

High School Graduation or G.E.D.

CPR and First Aid Certification

Completion of a 40-hour USLA Lifeguard Training Course (preferred)

Job description

The purpose of this position is to provide specialized ocean rescue services at assigned public beaches, protect lives, and enforce swimming regulations. Responsible for maintaining safe swimming conditions, enforcing established regulations, rescuing individuals in distress, and administering first aid when necessary.

This class works independently, under limited supervision, reporting major activities through periodic meetings. The essential functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this class. Management may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the class as necessary.

1. Patrol assigned areas of the beach to ensure the safety of swimmers and patrons.
2. Supervise participants' activities in and around the beach area.
3. Respond to all emergency situations.
4. Assist or rescue swimmers in distress using appropriate rescue techniques and render first aid and/or CPR following medical protocols.
5. Enforce all rules, ordinances, and statutes governing public beaches to prevent accidents and maintain order.
6. Assist with organizing and overseeing special events and providing crowd control.
7. Enforce health and safety rules and regulations, maintaining order in and around the beach area.
8. Inform beach patrons of unsafe or hazardous swimming conditions.
9. Maintain inventory of first aid and stand-up supplies.
10. Participate in daily physical training and lifesaving skill exercises.
11. Maintain current certifications and physical fitness requirements.
12. Prepare written reports on accidents, incidents, first aid, etc. Complete other reports or records as required.
13. Attend meetings as required.
14. Operate rescue devices such as wave runners, all-terrain vehicles, paddleboards, etc.
15. May supervise the Junior Lifeguard Program.
16. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

• High School Graduation or G.E.D. equivalent.
• Possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license with an acceptable driving history.
• CPR and First Aid Certification.
• Must pass swimming and rescue skill tests.
• Must be enrolled in a First Responder Course by the end of the probationary period.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE

• Completion of a 40-hour USLA Lifeguard Training Course or successful completion of training upon initial hire.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of local and state water safety rules, regulations, hazardous currents, and marine life.
• Knowledge of water rescue techniques and safety equipment.
• Knowledge of relevant rules, regulations, and city ordinances.
• Skill in lifesaving methods, including CPR and first aid administration.
• Ability to react quickly and calmly in emergency situations.
• Ability to make rescues in large, powerful surf conditions without fear or hesitation.
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to handle distressed swimmers and patrons professionally.
• Ability to interact effectively with the public.
• Ability to use small office equipment and computers.
• Ability to operate or repair small and medium equipment and machinery.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Performs very heavy work involving constantly lifting, shoveling, and carrying 50 to 75 pounds regularly and exerting 100 pounds of force frequently.

WORK HOURS:

Saturday - Friday, 7:30 am - 6:30 pm (may include nights, weekends, and holidays as needed).

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Routine and frequent exposure to various hazards including extreme temperatures, noise, animals, chemicals, traffic, heights, and other listed hazards.

ADA COMPLIANCE:

The City of Deerfield Beach provides reasonable accommodations for qualified persons with disabilities.

ESSENTIAL SAFETY FUNCTIONS:

Employees must follow safety policies, wear protective equipment, and report unsafe conditions or injuries immediately. Managers are responsible for enforcing safety rules and maintaining a safe work environment.

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITIES:

All employees are considered emergency service workers during disasters and may be called to perform duties as assigned.

The City values the service of veterans and their families and supports hiring returning service members and military spouses.