Lifeguard

YMCA Virginia Peninsulas•Williamsburg, VA

10d

About The Position

Under the supervision of the designated supervisor, the Lifeguard is responsible for the safety of all patrons in the pool area and supports the YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas’ mission, policies, and goals. The role emphasizes high-quality service and welcoming, connecting, supporting, and engaging members, guests, and staff. The Lifeguard maintains constant vigilance, enforces pool safety rules, prepares for and responds to emergencies, maintains required records and certifications, and helps ensure that the aquatic environment is safe and ready for use. The role also supports positive member relationships, YMCA fundraising efforts, staff training, and a safe and enjoyable facility.

Requirements

Minimum age of 15 with Red Cross certification; minimum age of 16 for YMCA certification. Applicants who are 15 must obtain a work permit before starting employment.
YMCA lifeguard certification, or, if Red Cross certified, transition to YMCA certification within six months of hire.
Certification in CPR, First Aid, AED, and O2.
Complete and maintain required trainings, including New Employee Orientation (NEO), Bloodborne Pathogens, Child Abuse Prevention (CAP), and Sexual Harassment training upon hire and annually thereafter.
Satisfactory criminal background check and Child Protective Services check.
Ability to respond effectively to inquiries or complaints.
Ability to pass the lifeguard water test and meet ongoing drill requirements.
Ability to remain alert and sit or stand for extended periods.
Ability to recognize visual and verbal distress signs or actions from a potential drowning victim within 10 seconds and respond to a victim in the water within 10 seconds.
Ability to respond to emergencies, including water emergencies, respiratory or cardiac emergencies, minor or major first aid, and Code Adam or missing-person situations.
Adequate hearing to detect noises and distinguish distress signals.
Ability to continuously scan all areas of the pool with clear vision.
Ability to perform strenuous physical tasks necessary for a water rescue.
Ability to communicate verbally and project the voice across a distance in normal and loud situations.
Staff must be at least 18 years old and adequately trained to enter the pump room and perform chemical-related duties.

Responsibilities

Support the YMCA’s mission, vision, and goals, and promote its values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
Help advance youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility through professional leadership.
Maintain vigilance and continuously scan the assigned pool area, keeping a 180-degree view of the pool or zone.
Know and review emergency procedures; respond promptly to emergencies in accordance with YMCA policies and the Safe-in-Six model.
Complete required reports and maintain accurate records required by the YMCA or state Health Department code.
Build and maintain effective, positive relationships with members, participants, and staff.
Know, understand, and consistently enforce safety rules, policies, and guidelines for the pool and aquatic area.
Wear the required lifeguard attire and equipment, including a one-piece bathing suit, guard shirt, whistle and lanyard, rescue tube, CPR mask, and water shoes, sandals, or flip-flops; street shoes and pants are not permitted.
Become familiar with the aquatic environment and ensure emergency equipment is available and ready for use at the beginning of each shift.
Ensure the aquatic environment is free of obstructions and safe for participant use.
Perform chemical checks when not guarding, as required, and take appropriate action. Only staff at least 18 years old and adequately trained may enter the pump room or perform chemical-related duties.
Enforce pool rules fairly, politely, and consistently with all patrons.
Maintain all relevant certifications and complete required training, including New Employee Orientation, Bloodborne Pathogens, Child Abuse Prevention, and Sexual Harassment training.
Promote and participate in YMCA fundraising efforts, including Annual Support and United Way campaigns.
Follow mandated abuse-reporting requirements.
Lead during emergencies and report accidents or incidents according to the Emergency Communication Action Plan.
Help ensure members, guests, and program participants are in a safe environment and follow the center Emergency Operations Plan.
Attend staff meetings and training as scheduled, and follow department Association Standards.
Carry out other related duties as directed by the Aquatics Department and center operations.
Help achieve membership growth and retention, member satisfaction, a positive YMCA image, strong relationships, a pleasant work environment, facility safety and cleanliness, and department quality standards.