Under the supervision of the Aquatics Director and in accordance with the Christian mission of the YMCA, Lifeguards maintain safe swimming conditions in the pool and deck areas. Build positive relationships with members and program participants through effective listening and verbal skills. Creatively find ways to connect participants to one another and the YMCA community. Lifeguards allow the Y to offer life-changing programs in the areas of youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. When we do this effectively, we deliver on our cause as a nonprofit by strengthening our community.

Let us help you get certified as a Lifeguard:

If you do not have current certifications, that is ok! We would like to tell you more about upcoming trainings in the Charlotte area. Feel free to contact a branch near you and ask for the Aquatics Director for more information or visit our website for class offerings.

PRINCIPLE RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Maintain constant surveillance of the pool area/body of water, know/review all emergency procedures and respond to emergency situations immediately.

• Responds to emergency situations in assigned zone. Assists in communicating emergency situations outside of assigned zone.
• Perform first aid when necessary and complete appropriate incident/accident reports.
• Know, understand, and consistently communicate policies and guidelines for the pool, body of water, and whirlpool.
• Performs daily routine chores and maintenance of waterpark to ensure neat and orderly appearance.
• Provides superior customer service to all guests by assisting all in a polite and expedient manner.
• Participate in all branch safety and quality drills.
• Attend all required monthly and y early in-service trainings.
• Arrive 10 minutes prior to start of scheduled shift.
• Engage in active listening with members in order to build relationships, understand each individual’s goals and interests and take the initiative to assist in the achievement of those goals.

EDUCATION & SKILL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be at least 16 years old
• Preferred candidates will have and maintain current certifications for YMCA or American Red Cross Lifeguard, CPR and First Aid (American Red Cross CPR for the Professional Rescuer, American Heart Association Health Care Provider, Oxygen Administration and AED.  If ARC Lifeguard certified, must cross over to YMCA Lifeguard within 30 days of hire.
• Upon hire if the candidate is not lifeguard certified he/she must become certified within 30 days.
• Must successfully complete at least two hours of practical guarding at branch prior to first shift.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to pass lifeguard water test.
• Must be able to remain alert with no lapses of consciousness in a warm environment with air temperatures of 80 degrees or higher.
• Must be able to sit or stand for extended periods of time.
• Audible awareness of noises and distress signals in surroundings.
• Observe all areas of the pool with clear vision.
• Perform all needed rescues and survival skills.
• Communicate verbally, including projecting voice across distance in in a dynamic, potentially loud environment.
• Perform all needed rescues, resuscitation and survival skills.
• Think in abstract, solve problems and make quick decisions.
• Act swiftly in an emergency.