Head Lifeguard

YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids • Caledonia, MI

3d • $17 - $21

About The Position

The Head Lifeguard assists the Aquatic Director with the day-to-day supervision and training of lifeguards to help ensure the safety of aquatic program participants. The role helps maintain a safe, enjoyable environment for children and adults. Availability is required for either Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. or Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., as well as a combination of weekday morning and evening shifts. This is a part-time, non-exempt position scheduled for 25 hours per week, with compensation of $17.09–$21.36.

The Head Lifeguard administers emergency first aid and CPR, actively guards, provides lifeguard breaks, and handles disciplinary matters while on duty. The position maintains supervision of participants and staff, enforces aquatic rules and safety procedures, assists with lifeguard training, and may teach swim lessons after obtaining YMCA Swim Instructor Certification. Duties also include maintaining and cleaning the pool deck and equipment, recording chemical readings, preparing and distributing rosters and schedules, collecting program evaluations, and maintaining records required by the State of Michigan Department of Health.

The role requires 1–3 years of lifeguarding experience or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience; the ability to react quickly in emergencies; and the ability to interact with people from varied backgrounds, ages, and lifestyles. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and hold the required lifeguard and CPR certifications. Additional certifications and training are required within specified periods after hire. The position involves the physical capabilities required of a lifeguard and local travel of 0–5% within Michigan; occasional out-of-state travel may be required for educational conferences or training.

Requirements

• 1–3 years of lifeguarding experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Ability to react quickly to emergency situations.
• Ability to interact with people of all ethnic backgrounds, ages, and lifestyles.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification or equivalent required.
• CPR for rescue required.
• YMCA Swim Instructor Certification required within 90 days of hire.
• First Aid Certification required within the first 60 days.
• AED-Oxygen Certification required within the first 60 days.
• Blood Borne Pathogen training.
• State of Michigan criminal background clearance (ICHAT).
• Ability to physically perform all skills required of a lifeguard.
• Ability to hear noises and distress signals in the aquatic environment, including in the water and around the zone of responsibility, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to remain alert with no lapses of consciousness.
• Ability to see and observe all sections of an assigned zone of responsibility, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Nice To Haves

• YMCA experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Administer emergency first aid and CPR.
• Actively guard, provide breaks for lifeguards, and handle disciplinary action while on duty.
• Maintain supervision of participants and staff while on duty.
• Teach swim lessons after obtaining YMCA Swim Instructor Certification.
• Enforce aquatic rules and procedures.
• Wash and maintain the deck and keep it free of obstructions.
• Take and record chemical readings.
• Assist with training lifeguard staff.
• Maintain all areas in a clean, presentable fashion.
• Maintain pool and deck equipment.
• Prepare and distribute rosters and schedules to members.
• Distribute and collect program evaluations.
• Enforce safety standards and follow emergency procedures.
• Ensure State of Michigan Department of Health requirements are met and maintain required records.
• Perform other functions necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids.

Benefits

• Free YMCA individual membership with full access to facilities.
• 12% employer retirement contribution upon eligibility, with no match requirement, and access to a 403(b) savings plan.
• Paid sick time.
• Access to ongoing training, development programs, and career advancement opportunities.
• Free, confidential Employee Assistance Program resources and counseling for the employee and family.

What This Job Offers

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