Lifeguard

YMCA of Greater San Antonio•Schertz, TX

10d

About The Position

This position supports the YMCA, a nonprofit organization committed to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The Lifeguard creates a safe and positive atmosphere that welcomes and respects all individuals while promoting and maintaining safe swimming conditions in the pool, on the deck, and in surrounding areas in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures. The role requires active surveillance, readiness to respond to emergencies, consistent application of aquatic safety rules, and positive relationships with members, participants, and staff. The Lifeguard also performs equipment checks, pool hazard checks, chemical testing when not guarding, recordkeeping, and facility opening and closing tasks. Work is performed in an indoor or outdoor aquatic environment and requires sustained alertness, concentration, and the physical and sensory abilities needed to perform lifeguard duties.

Requirements

Minimum age of 15 years.
YMCA-approved basic life-saving certification, including CPR, AED, First Aid, and Emergency Oxygen administration.
Current YMCA Lifeguard Certification or American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification.
Complete child abuse prevention training within 30 days of hire.
Ability to maintain certification-level physical and mental readiness.
Demonstrate lifeguard skills in accordance with YMCA standards.
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 assigned zone of responsibility.
Ability to remain alert with no lapses of consciousness.
Visual acuity to see and observe all sections of an assigned zone or area of responsibility and recognize aquatic distress above and below the water surface.
Ability to respond properly to a medical emergency.
Ability to sit and stand for long periods and hold breath underwater when necessary.
Ability to maintain high levels of alertness and concentration.

Responsibilities

Maintain active surveillance of the pool area.
Know and review emergency procedures; respond immediately to emergencies in accordance with YMCA policies, procedures, and the “safe-in-six” model; complete related reports as required.
Maintain effective and positive relationships with members, participants, and other staff.
Know, understand, and consistently apply safety rules, policies, and guidelines for the pool and aquatic area.
Remain calm and objective under pressure or when challenged by others.
Maintain accurate records as required by the YMCA and/or state health department code.
Perform equipment checks and ensure appropriate equipment is available as needed.
Check the pool for hazardous conditions upon arrival.
Perform chemical testing when not guarding, as required, and take appropriate action.
Attend all staff meetings and in-service training.
Ensure appropriate child-adult ratios and group sizes.
Assist in maintaining cleanliness of the deck and locker rooms.
Perform opening and closing procedures and secure the door.
Report to duty 10 minutes before the shift and secure a substitute when necessary, with proper notification.
Perform other duties as assigned.