Lifeguard / Group Swim Instructor

EUGENE FAMILY YMCA • Eugene, OR

7d • $16 - $16 • Onsite

About The Position

The Lifeguard / Group Swim Instructor maintains safe swimming conditions in the pool, on the deck, and in surrounding areas. The role creates a safe, positive atmosphere that welcomes and respects everyone and promotes safety in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures. It also builds positive relationships with members and program participants through effective listening and verbal communication, helping people connect with one another and the YMCA community.

The position combines active pool surveillance and emergency response with group swim instruction. Instructors prepare lessons in accordance with YMCA guidelines, support participants in reaching their goals, maintain program records, communicate information about aquatics programs, and organize class equipment. The role also involves attending staff meetings and in-service trainings and completing required training by assigned due dates.

The position is part-time and non-exempt, based at the Don Stathos Campus in Eugene, Oregon. The stated work schedule is December 1, 2026–January 1, 2027, with the potential to continue into 2027. A certification class is offered December 18–20, 2026. Lifeguard certification is offered for free to candidates who are not yet certified.

Requirements

• Be at least 15 years old.
• Be able to complete the Red Cross Pre-Course Lifeguard Requirements: swim 150 yards using front crawl, breaststroke, or a combination; tread water for two minutes using only the legs; swim 50 yards using front crawl, breaststroke, or a combination; and complete the timed 20-yard swim, 7-to-10-foot surface dive to retrieve a 10-pound object, return swim holding the object, and water exit within 1 minute 40 seconds.
• Demonstrate lifeguard skills in accordance with Eugene Family YMCA standards.
• Be able to maintain certification-level physical and mental readiness.
• Physically perform all skills required of a lifeguard.
• Hear noises and distress signals in the aquatic environment, including in the water and throughout the zone of responsibility.
• Remain alert without lapses of consciousness.
• See and observe all sections of an assigned zone or area of responsibility.

Nice To Haves

• Current Red Cross Lifeguard or YMCA Lifeguard certification, or equivalent.

Responsibilities

• Maintain active surveillance of the pool area.
• Know and review emergency procedures, respond immediately to emergencies in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures, and complete related reports as required.
• Know, understand, and consistently apply safety rules, policies, and guidelines for the pool and aquatic areas.
• Check equipment and ensure appropriate equipment is available; check the pool for hazardous conditions upon arrival.
• Recognize and celebrate the successes of members and program participants.
• Attend staff meetings and in-service trainings.
• Prepare lesson plans and teach swimming lessons in accordance with YMCA guidelines, supporting participants in achieving their goals.
• Develop positive relationships with volunteers, members, program participants, families, and colleagues; encourage parent or caregiver involvement and help participants and families connect with each other and the YMCA.
• Share information about aquatics programs and schedules and refer participants and families to other programs when appropriate.
• Maintain required records, including attendance and progress reports.
• Follow YMCA policies, rules, regulations, and procedures, including emergency and safety procedures; complete incident and accident reports as necessary.
• Organize and put away class equipment and report damaged equipment.
• Train and supervise class aides when assigned.
• Complete required trainings by the due dates assigned by the supervisor.
• If required to drive on duty, maintain a current, valid Oregon driver's license, a DMV driving record meeting YMCA standards, and evidence of insurability throughout employment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Free lifeguard certification for candidates who are not yet certified.
• Employee benefits and discounts are referenced, but specific benefits are not listed.

What This Job Offers

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