Aquatics Lead

Willamalane Park and Recreation District•Springfield, OR
•Onsite

About The Position

The Aquatics Lead aids in general aquatic department operations, including pool chemical checks and adjustments, lifeguard duties, programming, concessions, swim lessons, and guest services. The role supports daily facility operations, patron safety, required reports and records, and the quality of services provided by lifeguards, front desk staff, water fitness instructors, swim lesson instructors, and programmers. The employee provides feedback to Aquatic Supervisors to support best practices and compliance with maintenance protocols. The position works under the direct supervision of a department supervisor, with work reviewed through observation, interaction, and feedback from coworkers and guests. Although the role is not a supervisor position, it may involve leading other staff under the direction of aquatic supervisors. The work schedule depends on departmental needs and supervisor approval and may change. The position is part-time, benefitted, nonexempt, and represented by AFSCME Council 75.

Requirements

  • High school graduation or equivalency.
  • At least one year of aquatic experience and training demonstrating the knowledge, skills, ability, maturity, and professional judgment to perform the duties.
  • Completion of Verbal Judo training or the ability to complete it within one year of hire.
  • Current American Red Cross Professional Lifeguard certification or equivalent, including CPR/AED for lifeguards or professional rescuers, Emergency Care and Assessment, and BLS/CPR certificates.
  • Possess, or be able to obtain within one year of hire, American Red Cross Lifeguarding Instructor and CPR Instructor certifications.
  • Ability to meet American Red Cross Lifeguard pre-course requirements, including swimming, treading water, and retrieving a 10-pound object from 10 to 13 feet of water within the specified time.
  • Ability to perform submerged rescues in 13 feet of water and demonstrate lifeguarding, emergency care, CPR/AED, and First Aid skills.
  • Ability to perform pool chemistry and mechanical checks as required.
  • Ability to make responsible professional decisions, monitor staff and facility operations, exercise judgment in emergencies, interpret and implement department policies, and communicate and work cooperatively with guests and staff.
  • Ability to identify service, safety, operational, program, and facility needs; help identify problems and implement solutions; accept direction; and demonstrate continual learning and improvement.
  • Ability to complete the physical demands of the position, including standing, bending, swimming, lifting and towing people in water, and assisting with equipment and mats.
  • Ability to work a variable schedule that may include mornings, daytime, evenings, and weekends.
  • A drug screen and criminal background check are required before employment.

Nice To Haves

  • Three or more years of experience in an aquatic position, such as lifeguard, swim instructor, or programmer.
  • Training or certifications in aquatic programming relevant to the position, in addition to the required special certifications.

Responsibilities

  • Perform water-chemical checks, assess water clarity and pool conditions, make necessary adjustments, and follow documentation procedures.
  • Conduct daily slide inspections and maintain equipment necessary for staff and patron safety.
  • Monitor facility operations, staff performance, and guest services, and report potential improvements to Aquatic Supervisors.
  • Implement guest service and promotional programs, community service and educational programs, group and corporate rentals, special events, and maintenance and facility procedures.
  • Respond to emergencies and suggest improvements to the Aquatic Emergency Action Plan.
  • Work with Aquatic Supervisors and Coordinators to suggest monthly training topics and participate in relevant in-service training.
  • Perform assigned opening, mid-day, or closing duties.
  • Promote compliance with facility-use and program policies and injury-prevention guidelines.
  • Anticipate and provide services for guests and staff as appropriate.
  • Teach and facilitate swim lessons in accordance with Willamalane programming, provide feedback to students’ parents or guardians, and teach fourth-grade swim lessons.
  • Collaborate with Aquatic Supervisors and Coordinators to achieve professional service and performance goals.
  • Lead or co-instruct lifeguard training and First Aid CPR/AED courses as assigned.
  • Support program development, implementation, and evaluation by providing feedback for improvements.
  • Respond professionally to questions, suggestions, and concerns about aquatics programs, activities, policies, and practices.
  • Maintain responsive communication with Aquatics leadership, stay current on departmental communications and directives, and promptly respond to calls and texts about shifts, facility updates, and scheduling.
  • Accept direction and correction, seek resolution to misunderstandings or performance issues, and operate within established chains of responsibility and authority.

Benefits

  • Paid sick leave beginning on the date of hire.
  • Paid holidays: 11 District-recognized holidays plus one floating holiday per calendar year.
  • Medical and dental insurance, life insurance, and long-term disability insurance beginning the first of the month following hire.
  • Annual cost-of-living increase of up to 4%, as approved by the Board.
  • Merit increase of 3% upon successful completion of the probationary period and annually thereafter.
  • Additional $1 per hour increase upon successful completion of a Spanish competency test.
  • Retirement benefits after completing the probationary period.
  • Voluntary deferred compensation and flexible spending programs.
  • Discount on selected childcare programs, subject to restrictions.
  • 25% discount on certain recreation programs.
  • Free lap and play swim pool use for the employee and family.
  • Free fitness center use for the employee and family.
  • Free employee wellness programs.
  • Payroll direct deposit available.
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