Three Oaks Lifeguard Instructor

City of Crystal Lake • Crystal Lake, IL

6d • Onsite

About The Position

The Lifeguard Instructor is a seasonal supervisory position at Three Oaks Recreation Area, assisting with the daily operation and supervision of the beach. The position trains lifeguard staff two to three times a week and also functions as a rotating lifeguard for activities at the recreation area. Work is typically scheduled from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Hours depend on weather, with a goal of scheduling 40 hours per week. The role is required to work a portion of holiday weekends, including Memorial Day, Father's Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day.

The position normally works without direct supervision and requires independent judgment. It reports to designated staff in the City Manager’s Office and supervises seasonal employees. The successful candidate must possess or obtain American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor Certification before May 8, 2027. Candidates must receive written City pre-approval before enrolling in the course; after successful completion and 30 days of employment, the City will reimburse the employee for the pre-approved course. Personal Watercraft training and a water safety course must be completed upon employment.

The job regularly involves outdoor work and frequent exposure to wet or humid conditions. Employment offers are subject to successful completion of a background check, physical, and drug screen. The position remains open until filled, and applications are considered as received.

Requirements

• At least 18 years of age.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Possess or be able to obtain American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor Certification before May 8, 2027.
• Obtain written City pre-approval before enrolling in the required Lifeguard Instructor Certification course.
• Complete Personal Watercraft training and a water safety course upon employment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Technical skills in various software programs.
• Detail-oriented, with the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent customer service skills, including the ability to deal tactfully with the public.
• High level of integrity when handling sensitive information.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment in varied situations.
• Ability to perform the listed physical duties, including swimming, climbing or balancing, and occasional lifting or moving of heavy items with appropriate equipment or team-lifting assistance.
• Successful completion of a background check, physical, and drug screen.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience in staff supervision, training, and inventory.
• Ability to demonstrate leadership in operations.

Responsibilities

• Assist with planning, organizing, and scheduling beach work shifts and supervising employees engaged in water safety, general operations, and customer service.
• Train lifeguard staff through lifeguard drills two to three times a week.
• Operate support craft on the lake during open-water swims or swimming events.
• Monitor lake and weather conditions through observation and weather-tracking applications.
• Assist marina staff during lake emergencies.
• Report regular evaluations of employee capabilities and behavior to designated staff in the City Manager’s Office.
• Train and instruct personnel in job practices and work methods.
• Assist with supervising employees, coordinating and inspecting work activities, and ensuring schedules and safe, efficient work practices are met.
• Assist with coordinating and supervising beach functions, including opening and closing the beach and coordinating swim breaks when necessary.
• Help prepare the beach for operation, including installing and removing buoys and lines, moving lifeguard stands, and cleaning the beach area.
• Assist with first aid and water rescue situations throughout the facility.
• Help maintain the cleanliness of the beach, spray park, and playground area.
• Assist with performing and documenting American Red Cross inspections.
• Assist with collecting, issuing, and caring for beach rental equipment.
• Assist with planning, developing, and evaluating public and employee safety at Three Oaks Recreation Area.
• Inspect grounds, buildings, and equipment for safe conditions, report deficiencies, and enforce facility rules.
• Provide effective and efficient customer service and promote responsive community relations.
• Train Three Oaks staff in CPR, AED, and Basic First Aid.
• Work as a rotating lifeguard for activities at Three Oaks Recreation Area.

Benefits

• Reimbursement for the pre-approved Lifeguard Instructor Certification Course after successful completion and 30 days of employment.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED