Recreation Assistant (Lead Lifeguard)

Commander, Navy Installations Command•Great Lakes, IL

7d•Onsite

About The Position

This position is assigned to Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) Fitness, Sports, and Fleet Readiness; Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC); Naval Station Great Lakes. The incumbent performs lifeguard duties, safeguards people in the assigned work area, and provides aquatic training, education, and general support at the installation. Lifeguard duties make up 60% of the position and lead duties make up 40%. The role includes pool and/or waterfront work, depending on assignment, and may involve working with hazardous materials.

Requirements

Current, active CPR, lifeguard, and first aid certifications.
Knowledge of pool and waterfront safety rules; waterfront lifeguard assignments require knowledge of the beach environment, marine life, and beach and water hazards.
Knowledge of DoD, DON, CNIC, and MWR policies and procedures for aquatic assessment testing, certifications, and use of aquatic facilities and waterfront operations.
Knowledge of cash-handling procedures, if applicable.
Knowledge of and ability to conduct pool chemical testing, document results, and adjust chemical imbalances as directed.
Skill or proficiency in surf lifesaving techniques and radio communications for safe, efficient rescue operations.
Ability to provide training and identify hazards, hazardous situations, and patrons needing immediate assistance.
Ability to act decisively when a patron may be in danger and tactfully but forcefully instruct patrons on water safety and facility rules and enforce them.
Ability to conduct routine facility and pool-area safety inspections to ensure environmental health standards are met.
Ability to control large groups, perform the full range of work-leader responsibilities, direct subordinate staff, and manage conflict appropriately.
Ability to schedule work, accommodate last-minute changes, and evaluate performance.
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
Must pass applicable records and background checks, E-Verify employment verification, and an initial and recurrent physical agility test.
Must be able to work varied schedules, including holidays, weekends, and evenings.
Must be able to work with hazardous materials such as cleaning agents and pool chemicals.
Must obtain and maintain a valid state driver's license.
Must resolve any employment-verification discrepancies as a condition of employment.
Must meet installation access identification requirements applicable from May 7, 2025, for non-affiliated individuals requesting access.

Responsibilities

Supervise swimmers and patrons, monitor aquatic activities, enforce safety rules, report hazards, and perform water rescues as needed.
Observe and document assigned-area conditions, including hazards, water and chemical conditions, marine life, wind, and weather; remove hazardous materials when necessary.
Perform rescue work, provide CPR or emergency first aid, and request medical assistance as needed.
Conduct and document pool chemical tests, check chlorine and pH levels on schedule, report imbalances, and adjust chemicals as directed.
Mark swim and surf areas with a flag system; for waterfront assignments, operate rescue vehicles such as personal watercraft, patrol boats, and automobiles as needed.
Administer aquatic assessment tests and certifications according to DoD, DON, and CNIC policy, and provide introductory equipment orientations when needed.
Check identification for authorized patrons and collect usage fees when applicable.
Serve as the primary liaison among the activity, security, medical departments, and Aquatics Program Manager during emergencies.
Perform basic cleaning and assigned routine facility maintenance; inspect facility equipment and areas, including stands, boards, ropes, safety gear, and dressing rooms, and report deficiencies.
Use and maintain emergency equipment, including specialized kits and bags, backboards, suction devices, splints, stretchers, and monitoring equipment.
Enforce MWR policies and procedures for aquatic facilities and waterfront operations; prepare accident and incident reports and immediately notify management of emergencies.
Lead and direct three or more lifeguards during shifts, ensuring work complies with safety regulations and policies.
Interview and recommend lifeguard selections to the Aquatics Program Manager or Fitness Program Director as needed.
Schedule, coordinate, and conduct in-service training for assigned lifeguards and recreational swimming instructors; orient new lifeguards to their duties.
Track lifeguard training and certifications, monitor rotation schedules and work performance, issue directives, and recommend personnel actions.
Assist with lifeguard scheduling to maintain adequate pool-area coverage, report employee absences and issues, and identify supply or equipment needs for the Aquatics Program Manager.
Address patron concerns and problems, provide input when responding to issues, and help ensure aquatic programs and swimming events occur as scheduled.
Monitor aquatic activities and provide input to the Aquatics Program Manager; perform the full range of work-leader responsibilities, including acting in the manager's absence.
Assist in planning, coordinating, and scheduling recurring activities, special events, and community undertakings to make effective use of facilities and resources in support of the military mission.
Teach swimming skills and water safety to all age groups, prepare class materials, ensure class safety, and schedule lanes and aquatic spaces for patron use.
Take control and assume a leadership position during emergencies, and perform facility opening and closing procedures.

Benefits

Competitive pay
Free trainings, certifications, and professional development opportunities
Flexible hours
Advancement opportunities
Eligible for overtime
Free fitness center membership
Onsite childcare options with reduced rates
Tax-free shopping at the Navy Exchange
Employee assistance program with complimentary access to health, financial, social, and legal services
Access to American Forces Travel discounts
Access to on-base entertainment and events
Access to recreation centers at reduced rates for activities and rentals