Lifeguard - Morning/Opening Shift

Description

• We are currently seeking individuals available to work opening and morning shifts, typically between 5:30 AM and 1:00 PM.
• Opportunities to complete American Red Cross Lifeguard certification training at no cost to you.
• Earn $16.00–$18.00 per hour, plus an additional shift differential for weekday shifts from 5:00 PM to close and all weekend shifts.

OUR CULTURE:

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. At the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: We are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: We value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: We believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: We support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: We are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger, beginning with you.

Requirements

Position Title: Lifeguard

Reports To: Aquatic's Assistant Director

Department: Aquatics

Classification: Part-Time or Full-Time Opportunities, Non-Exempt
Compensation: $16.00 (part-time) $17.00 (full-time) + Shift Incentive ($2.00 extra an hour if you work any shift 5:00pm or later or any Saturday or Sunday shift)

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Lifeguard plays an essential role in maintaining a safe and welcoming aquatic environment for YMCA members and guests. This position is responsible for monitoring swimming activities, identifying potential safety concerns, enforcing pool rules, and responding promptly to emergencies. Lifeguards provide first aid, perform water rescues, and administer CPR or rescue breathing when necessary. Through attentive supervision and positive interactions, lifeguards help create an enjoyable aquatic experience while upholding YMCA safety standards, policies, and procedures.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Provide continuous and attentive supervision of swimmers and activities throughout the pool area.
• Respond quickly and appropriately to aquatic emergencies by following established YMCA emergency response procedures and the "Safe-in-Six" model.
• Foster respectful and positive interactions with members, program participants, and fellow employees.
• Apply and reinforce established aquatic safety standards, facility regulations, and organizational policies.
• Complete and maintain required documentation in accordance with YMCA procedures and applicable State Health Department regulations.
• Inspect aquatic safety equipment regularly and verify that necessary supplies and equipment are accessible and ready for use.
• Evaluate pool conditions at the beginning of each shift to identify and address potential hazards.
• Remain attentive and responsive to sounds, visual cues, and other indications of swimmers needing assistance, maintaining continuous alertness while on duty.
• Support the upkeep and cleanliness of pools and surrounding aquatic spaces by completing assigned daily responsibilities.
• Conduct pool water chemical testing when assigned and not actively supervising swimmers, following appropriate procedures based on results.
• Participate in required staff meetings, ongoing training sessions, and scheduled in-service activities.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Applicants must be at least 16 years old.
• Possess current American Red Cross Lifeguarding, CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer, First Aid, and Emergency Oxygen certifications, or be willing to complete employer-provided training.
• Maintain required certifications and demonstrate continued physical and mental preparedness to perform lifeguarding duties.
• Complete additional YMCA training courses and required learning modules following hire. Training will be provided by the Grand Traverse Bay YMCA.
• Successfully complete the required background screening process and new employee orientation.
• Demonstrate an understanding of and commitment to the YMCA's mission, purpose, and core values.
• Display strong attention to detail, accuracy, and effective verbal communication skills.
• Work effectively both independently and in collaboration with other team members.
• Demonstrate a professional, positive approach to responsibilities, along with strong organizational and time management skills.
• Show a willingness to participate in ongoing training, accept feedback, and continue developing skills within the position.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Work in an indoor aquatic environment where temperatures and humidity levels may be elevated.
• Perform responsibilities that involve extended periods of standing, walking, and sitting.
• Maintain effective visual scanning and supervision of groups of up to 25 swimmers participating in various aquatic programs.
• Carry out responsibilities in an active, fast-paced facility environment.
• Respond effectively to demanding or stressful situations while managing multiple responsibilities.
• Collaborate with other aquatic staff to support a safe, organized, and positive environment for YMCA members and participants.

CORE COMPETENCIES:

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 fund-raising.

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.