Lifeguard/Swim Instructor

POSITION SUMMARY:

Maintains safe swimming conditions in the pool, deck, and surrounding areas. Creates a safe and positive atmosphere that promotes member safety and engagement in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures. Must have flexible hours and be willing to work mornings, evenings, and weekends.

GENERAL FUNCTIONS:

Under the direction of the Aquatics Director or Coordinator, the lifeguard maintains safe swimming conditions in the pool, deck, and surrounding areas, creating a safe and positive atmosphere that promotes member safety and engagement in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Maintains constant surveillance of the pool area and is rescue ready at all times.
2. Knows/reviews all emergency procedures and responds to emergency situations immediately in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures. Completes related reports as required.
3. Maintains effective, positive relationships with members, participants, and other staff.
4. Knows, understands, and consistently applies safety rules, policies, and guidelines for the pool and aquatic area.
5. Maintains accurate records as required by the YMCA and/or the state Health Department code.
6. Performs equipment checks and ensures appropriate equipment is available as needed.
7. Checks the pool for hazardous conditions when arriving.
8. Performs chemical testing at appropriate times of the day, as required, and takes appropriate action.
9. Attends all staff meetings and training as required.
10. Maintains an attractive and clean aquatic environment.

YMCA COMPETENCIES (Leader):

Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Y's values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fundraising.

Collaboration: Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person's point of view and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others.

Operational Effectiveness: Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience.

Establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work, and actively participates in meetings. Follows budgeting policies and procedures and reports all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members.

Personal Growth: Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change and seeks opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths, and limitations and how they impact relationships. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Minimum age of 16.
2. Certifications: CPR for the Professional Rescuer, AED, Basic First Aid certification.
3. Current YMCA Lifeguarding or Red Cross Lifeguarding or Ellis & Associates Lifeguarding Certification.
4. Ability to maintain certification-level of physical and mental readiness.
5. Must demonstrate lifeguard skills in accordance with YMCA standards.
6. Requirements within 30 days of hire include completion of: Child Abuse Prevention; New Employee Orientation.
7. Must demonstrate lifeguard skills in accordance with NYS Health Department Requirements.

Physical Demands:

Ability to pass lifeguard water test. Must be able to remain alert. Must be able to sit or stand for extended periods. Adequate ability to hear 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, including projecting voice across distances in normal and loud situations.

EFFECT ON END RESULTS:

1. The YMCA will be recognized by the community as providing excellent service to all who walk through our doors or contact us by phone.
2. The YMCA will effectively connect and build relationships with its members and the community, resulting in increased member enrollment and retention.
3. Consistent, superior member service and satisfaction will result in continued growth in membership, programs, and special services.