Lifeguard I & II

YMCA of Greater Boston•Needham, MA
•$17 - $20

About The Position

Under the supervision of the Aquatics Director, the Lifeguard I & II is responsible for guarding the pool, ensuring the safety of patrons, enforcing pool rules, and implementing branch emergency protocols as needed. Active lifeguard certification, such as YMCA or Red Cross, is required. Various shifts are available, including mornings, early afternoons, evenings, and weekends. The position is hourly and non-exempt. Certified guards are offered a $500 sign-on bonus. Lifeguards prevent and respond to emergencies, perform rescues and provide care such as CPR, First Aid, and emergency oxygen when needed. They help keep the pool clean and safe, support pool cleaning and testing when off the stand, participate in safety drills and required in-service training, and communicate with supervisors. They are expected to arrive 10 minutes before their scheduled shift and never leave the pool unattended while on duty. The role also includes engaging with members, maintaining a professional manner consistent with YMCA values, and completing other duties as assigned.

Requirements

  • Lifeguard II applicants must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Active lifeguard certification is required; examples include YMCA or Red Cross certification.
  • Must be physically and verbally able to interact with members and staff.
  • Must be able to visually scan the pool.
  • Must be able to sit or stand for extended periods.
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds at times.
  • Required training/certifications include Child Abuse Prevention (within the first four weeks of employment), Respect in the Workplace (Sexual Harassment Prevention), The Professional Lifeguard, Disappearing Dummies, CPR, First Aid, O2, and YMCA Lifeguarding. Training is available.

Responsibilities

  • Continuously and consistently scan the pool to prevent emergencies.
  • Recognize emergencies or potential incidents and address them immediately.
  • Know and activate the branch and pool Emergency Action Plan (EAP) when needed.
  • Perform assists or rescues as needed.
  • Provide CPR, First Aid, and emergency oxygen as needed.
  • Complete incident reports in a timely and effective manner.
  • Enforce pool rules and handle issues professionally.
  • Maintain a clean and safe pool environment.
  • Assist with pool cleaning and testing when off the stand.
  • Maintain clear and consistent communication with supervisors.
  • Participate in branch safety and quality drills.
  • Attend required monthly and yearly in-service trainings.
  • Arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled shift.
  • Ensure doors are securely locked when a lifeguard is not on duty, and never leave the pool unattended.
  • Find personal shift coverage; changes in hours must be documented in writing and signed by consenting parties.
  • Listen actively to members, build relationships, understand their goals and interests, and take initiative to assist them.
  • Maintain a professional image and manner consistent with the YMCA mission and goals.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

  • $500 sign-on bonus for certified guards.
  • Free YMCA membership for the employee.
  • Discounts on specialty programs, including personal training and swimming lessons.
  • Discounted or free family membership.
  • Retirement plan up to 10%, subject to eligibility requirements.
  • Health, dental, and vision benefit package.
  • Vacation and sick time; part-time employees receive sick time.
  • Opportunities to develop leadership skills and learn new skills and functions.
  • YMCA career training programs.
  • Healthy work/life balance.
© 2026 Teal Labs, Inc
Privacy PolicyTerms of Service