Head Lifeguard

City of Collinsville • Collinsville, IL

4d • Onsite

About The Position

Head Lifeguards work for the Parks and Recreation Department and report to Lifeguard Managers or the Assistant Parks and Recreation Director. They supervise lifeguards and help ensure the safety, cleanliness, and operation of the waterpark, its attractions, guests, and staff through a constant on-deck presence and excellent customer service. They assist the management team with programs, events, staff training, and daily operations. Each Head Lifeguard is assigned a specialty based on their strengths and previous experience and works closely with the respective manager to help oversee that specialty throughout the season.

The position is seasonal and part-time, with most working hours from mid-April through mid-September. Some responsibilities may begin as early as November for the upcoming season.

Requirements

• Must be at least 17 years of age.
• Must have current Star Guard Elite certifications. Certification may be gained through the City of Collinsville, but employment cannot be provided without certification; certification must include the ability to pass all in-water skills tests in depths of at least 9 feet.
• At least 2–4 years of lifeguarding experience.
• Basic knowledge of lifeguarding best practices, swim lessons, aquatic programs, and pool maintenance, with the ability to teach these skills to subordinate staff or the ability to learn them.
• Flexible scheduling to accommodate early mornings, late nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to work effectively with supervisors, staff, and guests.
• Ability to act quickly, competently, and effectively during emergencies.
• Ability to walk, run, stand, sit, and complete a variety of motor skills.
• Ability to walk and/or stand on concrete for most of a shift.
• Ability to bend to the floor and reach overhead.
• Ability to regularly lift and carry 30–70 pounds to chest height.
• Ability to hear and see well.
• Exceptional punctuality and attendance.
• Ability to project a positive attitude, manner, and appearance.
• Ability to think clearly and respond appropriately in an emergency.
• Mature judgment and ethical behavior.
• Ability to read, write, and perform mathematical equations.
• Ability to work with limited supervision and multitask.
• Ability to use knowledge, critical thinking, judgment, and problem-solving skills to handle situations.
• Ability to resolve conflict fairly, safely, and in a timely manner.
• Ability to work staggered shift assignments as necessary, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to work in hot, cold, wet, or other unpleasant outdoor conditions and in a loud, fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with the supervision and operation of aquatic programs, swim lessons, pool maintenance, and lifeguards.
• Proficiency with Microsoft programs, Google Suite, and other software that may benefit waterpark efficiency.
• Team-oriented approach and a positive, can-do attitude.

Responsibilities

• Help ensure the safety of guests and staff and consistently enforce facility rules, policies, and safety procedures.
• Lead, supervise, and support lifeguards to ensure proper coverage and safe waterpark operations.
• Assist with staff training, certifications, and regular in-service training.
• Coach, guide, and provide feedback to lifeguards, and help address staff concerns or performance issues.
• Assist Lifeguard Management with daily operations, staff scheduling, documentation, and other administrative tasks as needed.
• Perform lifeguard duties and maintain required certifications.
• Assist with aquatic programs, special events, and activities.
• Provide excellent customer service and help create a fun, welcoming environment for guests.
• Assist with incident response, reporting, and required facility procedures.
• Help with pre-season facility preparation, daily upkeep, and post-season duties.
• Assist with social media content and promotional announcements.
• Communicate effectively with lifeguards, other aquatic staff, and management.
• Help resolve routine operational issues and bring significant concerns to management.
• Fill in where needed to support the overall operation of the waterpark.
• Maintain a professional image when representing Collinsville Aqua Park and the City of Collinsville.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed