Lifeguard

Valley Shore YMCA • Westbrook, CT

3d • $18 • Onsite

About The Position

The Valley Shore YMCA is seeking a responsible, attentive, and safety-focused Lifeguard to support our mission of strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. This role ensures a safe, welcoming, and positive aquatic environment for all members and guests. The Lifeguard is responsible for maintaining constant surveillance of the pool and surrounding areas, enforcing safety rules, and responding promptly and appropriately to emergencies. This position provides excellent customer service, supports daily aquatic operations, and ensures all interactions reflect the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. Join the Valley Shore YMCA as a Lifeguard and be part of a mission-driven team committed to safety, teamwork, and community well-being. In this role, you will help prevent accidents, respond to emergencies, and create a positive experience for members and program participants. This position is ideal for individuals who are dependable, alert, and passionate about water safety. Enjoy a free Valley Shore YMCA membership, training opportunities, and flexible hours while making a difference in your community.

Requirements

• Minimum age of 16.
• Education: Certifications - Current American Red Cross certification or equivalent.
• Current CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications are required within 30 days of hire.
• Skills and Experience: Demonstrated ability to maintain the physical and mental readiness required for lifeguarding duties.
• Must successfully demonstrate lifeguard skills in accordance with American Red Cross standards.
• Strong people skills with the ability to connect and communicate effectively with diverse individuals and groups across all social and economic backgrounds.
• Commitment to providing a safe, welcoming, and inclusive aquatic environment.
• Experience in applying lifesaving skills, including CPR for Professional Rescuer, AED operation, basic first aid, and to ensure a safe aquatic environment.
• Must successfully pass a background check.
• Understanding of inclusion and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (AD
• Completion of YMCA-specific training within the first 90 days of hire.
• Maintain constant alertness with no lapses in attention.
• Observe and monitor all sections of the assigned area to ensure member safety.
• Sufficient strength, agility, and mobility to perform essential functions of the position and to supervise program activities and respond to emergencies and challenging situations.
• Requires adequate visual and auditory capabilities to recognize and respond to environmental conditions, safety issues, and potential hazards.

Responsibilities

• Maintains active surveillance of the pool area, continuously scanning the entire pool and deck area.
• Respond quickly to emergencies following Valley Shore’s YMCA protocols and the “Safe-in-Six” safety model.
• Enforce pool rules, safety policies, and local/state regulations consistently.
• Perform routine chemical testing, equipment checks, and hazard assessments to maintain a safe aquatic environment.
• Build positive relationships with members, participants, and team members.
• Complete required records and reports such as incident accident and other pool logs accurately and promptly.
• Attend all mandatory staff meetings, trainings, in-service sessions and keeps current all required certifications.
• Support additional aquatic operations and projects as assigned.
• Understanding of inclusion and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Benefits

• Free Valley Shore YMCA Membership (includes access to all fitness facilities).
• Discounted family memberships and certain program fees (childcare, swim lessons, camps, etc.).
• Eligible for tuition discounts at selected colleges.
• Flexible scheduling to fit school, family, or other work commitments.
• Paid training and CPR/AED certification assistance.
• Opportunities for advancement into Wellness, Aquatics, or Youth Program departments
• Supportive, community-oriented work environment that values wellness and personal growth.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed