Lead Lifeguard - Hickory

YMCA of Catawba Valley•Hickory, NC

3d•$12 - $14•Onsite

About The Position

The Summer Lead Lifeguard is a seasonal position that serves as a senior member of the aquatics team, providing leadership, supervision, and mentorship to lifeguards while ensuring the highest level of safety, professionalism, and operational excellence in the aquatic's facility. This role is responsible for overseeing daily lifeguard operations, enforcing safety protocols, assisting with training, and supporting the aquatic leadership team in maintaining a safe and engaging aquatic environment for members and guests.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of application
Minimum 3 years lifeguarding experience and demonstrated leadership experience
Strong knowledge of water safety practices, emergency response, and lifeguard training techniques
Ability to lead, mentor, and support a team of lifeguards in a professional and effective manner
Excellent communication and conflict resolution skills, with the ability to enforce policies while maintaining positive relationships
Strong decision-making and problem-solving abilities in high-pressure situations
Familiarity with pool operations, risk management, and aquatic facility maintenance
Must be comfortable working in and around water for extended periods
Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed
Passion for aquatic safety, leadership, and team development
All YMCA team members are expected to maintain a current and active status for all safety, risk, and programming certifications defined by the YMCA of Catawba Valley.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience in a lead lifeguard role
Supervisory experience.
Must complete the following trainings before working first shift and are to be renewed annually: Blood Borne Pathogens and Child Abuse Prevention
Must successfully complete Adult Learning Concepts, Orientation to the YMCA training System, and Facilitation Skills for Trainers
Must obtain YMCA Lifeguard Instructor within 9 months of employment
Must obtain YMCA P.O.O.L. certification within 6 months of employment
Must complete I Create Loyalty Training within 30 days of hire
Must present a professional, mature image, and have excellent interpersonal communication skills

Responsibilities

Supervise and support lifeguard staff, ensuring proper coverage, adherence to safety protocols, and professional conduct
Act as the on-deck lead, assisting with incident response, emergency situations, and enforcing facility policies
Monitor pool operations, ensuring compliance with YMCA and local health and safety standards
Assist with in-service training sessions, skill evaluations, and ongoing development for lifeguards
Perform advanced water rescues and provide leadership in emergency response situations as needed
Conduct daily safety checks of the pool, equipment, and surrounding areas to ensure a safe environment
Communicate effectively with members, guests, and staff, handling concerns and ensuring a positive experience
Support the Aquatics Director in scheduling, record-keeping, and operational duties as assigned
Mentor and assist in onboarding new lifeguards, fostering a strong and cohesive team
Uphold and promote the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility
Performs other duties and tasks as assigned by leadership
All YMCA staff are responsible for creating a safe, inclusive environment. This includes following all YMCA policies and procedures related to abuse prevention, reporting concerns or incidents immediately, and maintaining appropriate boundaries with youth and members
Candidates must tolerate background noise, meet a 25-decibel hearing threshold, and use hearing aids without interruption. They must remain alert, meet strength requirements, observe assigned areas, and use corrective eyewear without disruption.