Lifeguard

YMCA Virginia Peninsulas•Hampton, VA

20d

About The Position

Under the supervision of the designated supervisor, the Lifeguard is responsible for the safety of all patrons in the pool area. In keeping with the YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas’ mission, policies, and goals, the Lifeguard provides high-quality service and works with staff to welcome, connect, support, and engage members, guests, and colleagues. The role requires constant vigilance, enforcement of pool safety rules, readiness to respond to emergencies, maintenance of required certifications and records, and support of a safe, clean, and welcoming aquatic environment. Lifeguards also contribute to YMCA programs, fundraising efforts, staff training, and positive relationships with members and the community.

Requirements

At least 15 years of age with Red Cross certification, or 16 years of age for YMCA certification; applicants who are 15 must have a Work Permit before starting employment.
YMCA lifeguard certification, or Red Cross certification with a requirement to transition to YMCA certification within six months of hire.
Certification in CPR, First Aid, AED, and O2.
Complete and maintain required trainings upon hire and annually thereafter, including New Employee Orientation, Bloodborne Pathogens, Child Abuse Prevention, and Sexual Harassment training.
Satisfactory criminal background check and Child Protective Services check.
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 signs of distress from a potential drowning victim within 10 seconds and respond to a victim in the water within 10 seconds.
Ability to respond to water emergencies, respiratory or cardiac emergencies, minor or major first-aid situations, and Code Adam or missing-person situations.
Adequate hearing to detect noises and distinguish distress signals.
Clear vision and ability to continuously scan all areas of the pool.
Ability to perform strenuous physical tasks required for a water rescue.
Ability to communicate verbally and project one’s voice across a distance in normal and loud situations.
Ability to respond effectively to inquiries or complaints.

Responsibilities

Support the YMCA’s mission, vision, and goals and model the values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
Maintain uninterrupted vigilance and scan the assigned pool or zone with a 180-degree view.
Know and review emergency procedures, respond immediately according to YMCA policies and the Safe-in-Six model, and act as a leader during emergencies.
Complete required reports and maintain accurate records in accordance with YMCA and state Health Department requirements.
Maintain positive, effective relationships with members, participants, guests, and staff.
Know and consistently enforce safety rules, policies, and guidelines for the pool and aquatic area in a fair, polite, and consistent manner.
Check that emergency equipment is available and ready for use at the beginning of each shift.
Keep the aquatic environment free of obstructions and safe for participant use.
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.
Maintain all relevant certifications and complete required trainings, including New Employee Orientation, Bloodborne Pathogens, Child Abuse Prevention, and Sexual Harassment training.
Follow mandated abuse-reporting requirements 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.
Wear the required lifeguard attire and equipment: 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.
Promote and participate in YMCA fundraising efforts, including Annual Support and United Way campaigns.
Attend staff meetings and trainings as scheduled and follow department Association Standards.
Carry out other related duties as needed by the Aquatics Department and center operations to support an excellent member experience.
Support membership growth and retention, member satisfaction, a positive YMCA image, a comfortable work environment, strong relationships, facility safety and cleanliness, and department quality standards.