Lifeguard

YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids•Wyoming, MI
•$16 - $20

About The Position

The Lifeguard guards the aquatic facility and/or aquatic activities to help ensure the safety of pool occupants and program participants, and maintains a safe, welcoming environment for children and adults. The role requires availability for varying shifts throughout the week, including mornings, afternoons, evenings, and weekends. Because pools are open seven days a week, staff must work at least one full shift each week and be available for one weekend shift per month. The position is part-time, non-exempt, and offers compensation of $16.12–$20.15 per hour, with up to 25 hours per week. In-house American Red Cross lifeguard training and certification sessions are available. The role requires the ability to physically perform lifeguard skills, hear noises and distress signals throughout the aquatic area, remain alert without lapses of consciousness, and see and observe all sections of an assigned zone of responsibility. Local travel within Michigan is 0–5%; occasional out-of-state travel may be required for educational conferences or training.

Requirements

  • High school education, up to one month of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
  • Ability to interact with people of all ethnic backgrounds, ages, and lifestyles.
  • Must be at least 16 years old.
  • American Red Cross Lifeguard certification is required; training and certification are offered in-house at no cost.
  • Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) for rescue certification is required.
  • First Aid certification is required within the first 60 days.
  • AED-Oxygen certification is required within the first 60 days.
  • Blood Borne Pathogen training.
  • State of Michigan criminal background clearance (ICHAT).
  • Ability to physically perform all skills required of a lifeguard.
  • Ability to hear noises and distress signals in the aquatic environment, including in the water and throughout the zone of responsibility, with or without reasonable accommodation.
  • Ability to remain alert with no lapses of consciousness.
  • Ability to see and observe all sections of an assigned zone of responsibility, with or without reasonable accommodations.

Nice To Haves

  • YMCA experience preferred.
  • Lifeguard Instructor certification preferred.

Responsibilities

  • Enforce aquatic rules and procedures.
  • Keep the deck free of obstructions.
  • Maintain supervision of participants.
  • Administer necessary first aid and CPR.
  • Handle parent and member complaints.
  • Maintain all areas in a clean, presentable fashion.
  • Maintain pool counts.
  • Maintain pool and deck equipment.
  • Check and record pool and air temperatures and chemical levels.
  • Enforce policies on showers and proper attire.
  • Enforce safety standards and follow emergency procedures.
  • Ensure State of Michigan Department of Health requirements are met.
  • Perform other functions necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids.

Benefits

  • Free YMCA individual membership with full facility access.
  • 12% employer retirement contribution upon eligibility, with no match requirement, and access to a 403(b) savings plan.
  • Paid sick time.
  • Ongoing training, development programs, and career advancement opportunities.
  • Free, confidential Employee Assistance Program resources and counseling for the employee and their family.
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