Lifeguard

YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas•Hampton, VA

8d•$14 - $17

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 mission, policies, and goals of the YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas. The role emphasizes high-quality service and working with staff to welcome, connect, support, and engage members, guests, and staff. The Lifeguard maintains vigilance, enforces pool safety rules, responds to emergencies, keeps the aquatic environment and emergency equipment ready for use, and maintains required records and certifications. The position also supports YMCA programs, fundraising, staff training, and a safe, positive member experience.

Requirements

Be at least 15 years old with Red Cross certification; YMCA certification requires a minimum age of 16. Applicants who are 15 must obtain a Work Permit before starting employment.
Hold YMCA lifeguard certification, or, if Red Cross certified, switch to YMCA certification within six months of hire.
Hold certifications in CPR, First Aid, AED, and O2.
Complete and maintain required trainings, including New Employee Orientation, Bloodborne Pathogens, Child Abuse Prevention, and Sexual Harassment training upon hire and annually thereafter.
Satisfactorily complete a criminal background check and Child Protective Services check.
Be able to pass the lifeguard water test and meet ongoing drill requirements.
Remain alert and able to sit or stand for extended periods.
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.
Respond to emergencies, including water, respiratory, cardiac, first-aid, and missing-person situations.
Hear noises and distinguish distress signals; continuously scan all pool areas with clear vision.
Perform strenuous physical tasks necessary for a water rescue.
Communicate verbally and project a voice across distances in normal and loud situations.
Respond effectively to inquiries or complaints.

Responsibilities

Support the YMCA’s mission, vision, and goals, and model its values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
Help advance the YMCA’s work in youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
Maintain vigilance and scan the assigned pool or zone continuously, maintaining a 180-degree view.
Know emergency procedures and respond immediately to emergencies in accordance with YMCA policies, procedures, and the safe-in-six model; complete related reports.
Maintain positive relationships with members, participants, guests, and staff.
Apply pool and aquatic-area safety rules, policies, and guidelines consistently, and maintain required records.
Wear the required lifeguard attire and equipment.
Know the aquatic environment and ensure emergency equipment is available and ready for use and that the area is safe and free of obstructions.
Perform chemical checks when not guarding, as required, and take appropriate action. Only staff who are at least 18 and adequately trained may enter the pump room or perform chemical-related duties.
Enforce pool rules fairly, politely, and consistently.
Maintain all relevant certifications and complete required trainings.
Promote and participate in YMCA fundraising efforts, including Annual Support and United Way Campaigns.
Follow mandated abuse-reporting requirements.
Lead during emergencies, report accidents and incidents according to the Emergency Communication Action Plan, and help ensure participants follow the center Emergency Operations Plan.
Attend scheduled staff meetings and trainings and follow department Association Standards.
Carry out other related duties as required by the Aquatics Department and center operations.