Lifeguard

YOUNG MENS CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION OF METROPOLITAN LOS ANGELES•Torrance, CA
•$19 - $19•Onsite

About The Position

The Lifeguard maintains safe swimming conditions in the pool, on the deck, and in surrounding areas. The role creates a safe and positive atmosphere that promotes member safety and engagement in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures. Lifeguards provide continuous surveillance, enforce safety standards, maintain equipment and records, respond to emergencies, and help identify improvements to aquatic safety. Lifeguards must complete periodic aquatic safety assessments and attend required staff meetings and trainings. 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 YMCA certification requirement within 90 days of hire.
  • Current BLS for the Professional Rescuer certification from the American Safety & Health Institute, American Red Cross, or American Heart Association.
  • Current Standard/Community First Aid certification.
  • Current Emergency Oxygen Administration certification.
  • Ability to maintain required certifications and demonstrate lifeguard skills in accordance with YMCA standards.
  • Ability to meet the physical, visual, and auditory requirements of the job, with or without reasonable accommodations.
  • Ability to perform required swimming and rescue skills, including treading water, swimming specified strokes and distances, surface-diving, retrieving an object from the pool bottom, exiting the water, and performing CPR on an adult manikin.
  • Ability to sit for extended periods in an elevated chair; remain alert and focused for extended periods; hear and distinguish distress signals amid background noise; scan all pool areas with clear vision; perform strenuous water-rescue tasks; and communicate clearly and promptly.
  • Lifeguards under age 18 must work alongside an on-duty Lifeguard over age 18.

Nice To Haves

  • One to two years of lifeguard experience is preferred.
  • Candidates without the required certifications may be hired provisionally if they 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 after certifications are obtained and approved in SafetyZone.

Responsibilities

  • Provide continuous, uninterrupted scanning of the pool and aquatic area.
  • Follow the Minimum Standards of Safety for Aquatic Activities 7.301 and consistently enforce pool and aquatic-area safety rules, policies, and guidelines.
  • Perform equipment checks and ensure appropriate equipment is available as needed.
  • Use problem-solving skills to make quick decisions, instruct, evaluate, supervise, and recognize potential danger or injury.
  • Maintain effective, 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 and/or state Health Department code.
  • Identify ways to improve safety standards and continuously monitor the aquatic area for hazardous or unsafe conditions.
  • Immediately report hazardous or unsafe conditions to management and take appropriate action.
  • Successfully complete periodic aquatic safety assessments.
  • Demonstrate the required swimming, rescue, resuscitation, and survival skills, including CPR.
  • Remain alert and focused on the full zone of responsibility, including under high heat and humidity, and move safely around the aquatic area and elevated chair.
  • Communicate promptly and clearly with others and emergency personnel during incidents and emergencies; give and receive directions effectively.
  • Act swiftly in emergencies, including when uncertain whether someone is in danger.
  • 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 competencies and willingness to develop in the Cause Driven Leadership areas of mission advancement, collaboration, operational effectiveness, and personal growth.
  • Attend staff meetings and trainings as required.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor.
© 2026 Teal Labs, Inc
Privacy PolicyTerms of Service