About The Position

The City of Ames Parks and Recreation Department is seeking an Aquatics Shift Leader for the Fitch Family Indoor Aquatic Center. This position averages approximately 19 hours per week with a rotating schedule, including weekends. The Shift Leader assists with staff training events and participates in weekly shift leader meetings. Under the supervision of the Aquatics Manager and Aquatics Coordinator, the Shift Leader provides general supervision for the aquatic staff, overseeing patron surveillance, emergency action plans, and daily operations. This role is accountable to the Recreation Manager and Aquatics Coordinator, and adjunctly to the Recreation Superintendent and Director of Parks & Recreation. This posting is open until filled.

Requirements

  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • High School Diploma, G.E.D. or HiSet.
  • Minimum of one year lifeguarding experience.
  • American Red Cross Lifeguard, First Aid and AED/CPR certification required.
  • Demonstrate sufficient physical fitness, communication skills, initiative, dependability, organization, enthusiasm, leadership, and a desire to serve the public.
  • Ability to maintain an exceptional level of safety and sanitation of the pool facility.
  • Ability to maintain a professional demeanor (calm and courteous) at all times while on site.
  • Ability to maintain a professional appearance (staff shirt w/ guard suit, khaki or red shorts) at all times while on site.
  • Ability to understand, appreciate and embody the City of Ames Core Values.

Nice To Haves

  • Leadership experience in pool operation and management is preferred.
  • American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor (WSI) and/or Lifeguard Instructor (LGI) certification is preferred, or ability to maintain upon hire.
  • Candidates not possessing WSI and LGI certifications must obtain them upon hire, as outlined by the Aquatics Manager or designee. Certification will be provided by the City.

Responsibilities

  • Oversee aquatic staffing plan, including shift meetings, rotations, assignments, and rescue equipment.
  • Oversee patron surveillance, ensuring lifeguard alertness, vigilance, and consistent rule enforcement.
  • Oversee the enactment of Emergency Action Plans (EAPs) as needed.
  • Perform opening and closing procedures, including unlocking/locking, lights/features, and cleaning.
  • Perform daily operations such as chemical testing, announcements, and deep water tests.
  • Complete required paperwork for record keeping, including incident reports and water testing.
  • Assist the Aquatics Manager & Coordinator with lifeguard orientation and in-service training.
  • Assist the Aquatics Manager & Coordinator with formal and informal staff recognition and evaluation.
  • Assist the Aquatics Manager & Coordinator with live action drills and performance checks.
  • Supervise internal and external groups and activities, such as swim team, swim lessons, aqua classes, and rentals.
  • Complete cleaning tasks as assigned.
  • Prepare work schedules and payroll.
  • Perform daily facility safety checks and follow through on required actions.
  • Communicate with aquatic staff through various media, including scheduling apps, email, and social media.
  • Maintain current inventory of supplies and notify the Recreation Coordinator and/or Aquatics Manager of needed items.
  • Oversee and/or coordinate aquatics programming as assigned.
  • Serve as the primary contact/person in charge during evening, morning, and weekend hours, as assigned.
  • Assist the Recreation Coordinator and/or Aquatics Manager with hiring and training of aquatic staff.
  • Mentor, coach, and develop all staff members.
  • Oversee staff during in-service training events.
  • Delegate facility-specific tasks to aquatic staff.
  • Ensure proper staffing levels by calling in additional staff or cutting staff as needed.
  • Ensure compliance with state and federal laws, including child labor laws.
  • Maintain constant monitoring for accidents or potential accidents.
  • Enforce rules governing the conduct of persons at the swimming pool and warn patrons of hazardous practices.
  • Recognize emergency situations and react appropriately in a quick and calm manner.
  • Assist persons in distress by applying safety techniques, CPR, first aid, and water rescues as needed, within the scope of their training.

Benefits

  • The City of Ames participates in E-Verify.
  • Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer.
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