Lifeguard (5212)

YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles•Montebello, CA

About The Position

The Lifeguard maintains safe swimming conditions in the pool, on the deck, and in surrounding areas, creating a safe and positive atmosphere that promotes member safety and engagement in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures. The position requires continuous, uninterrupted scanning of the aquatic area, consistent enforcement of safety rules, equipment checks, and prompt action in emergencies or when hazards are identified. The Lifeguard builds positive relationships with members, participants, and staff; reviews and follows emergency procedures; completes required reports and records; attends required meetings and trainings; and participates in improving safety standards. The role also requires passing periodic aquatic safety assessments and maintaining the physical, visual, auditory, swimming, rescue, and communication abilities necessary to perform essential job functions. Lifeguards under age 18 must work alongside an on-duty Lifeguard over age 18.

Requirements

Minimum age of 16.
Current YMCA Lifeguarding certification, or American Red Cross Lifeguarding certification subject to the stated YMCA certification requirement.
Current American Safety & Health Institute, American Red Cross, or American Heart Association BLS for the Professional Rescuer certification.
Current Standard/Community First Aid certification.
Current Emergency Oxygen Administration certification.
A candidate hired provisionally before obtaining the required certifications must register for a YMCA Lifeguard V6 course within 30 days of hire, participate in an interview, and pass the pre-employment skills assessment. Lifeguarding shifts may be scheduled only once certifications are obtained and approved in SafetyZone.
American Red Cross-certified Lifeguards must obtain YMCA Lifeguarding Certification within 90 days of hire.
Ability to maintain required certifications and demonstrate lifeguard skills in accordance with YMCA standards.
Ability to perform the job's physical, visual, and auditory functions, with or without reasonable accommodations.
Ability to perform specified swimming and water-rescue skills, including treading water, swimming prescribed strokes and distances, surface dives, retrieving an object from the pool bottom, exiting the water, and beginning CPR on a manikin.
Ability to sit for extended periods in an elevated chair; remain alert and focused for extended periods in heat and humidity; move safely while scanning the assigned zone; hear and distinguish distress signals amid background noise; continuously scan the pool with clear vision; communicate promptly and clearly; and act swiftly in emergencies.

Nice To Haves

One to two years of lifeguard experience preferred.

Responsibilities

Continuously scan the pool and aquatic area without interruption.
Follow aquatic safety standards and consistently enforce pool and aquatic-area safety rules, policies, and guidelines.
Check equipment and ensure appropriate equipment is available as needed.
Use problem-solving skills to make quick decisions, instruct, evaluate, supervise, and recognize potential dangers or injuries.
Maintain effective and positive relationships with members, participants, and other staff.
Review emergency procedures and respond immediately to emergencies in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures.
Complete related reports and maintain accurate records required by the YMCA or state Health Department code.
Identify opportunities to improve safety standards and continuously monitor the aquatic area for hazards or unsafe conditions.
Immediately report hazardous or unsafe conditions to management and take appropriate action.
Successfully complete periodic aquatic safety assessments.
Maintain required swimming, rescue, resuscitation, survival, and CPR skills and perform strenuous physical tasks necessary for water rescues.
Attend staff meetings and trainings as required.
Uphold YMCA policies for safety, supervision, mandated reporting, and risk management.
Demonstrate the Six Pillars of Character and YMCA Core Values in dealings with members, guests, volunteers, and fellow staff.
Demonstrate and develop competencies in mission advancement, collaboration, operational effectiveness, and personal growth.
Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor.