Job Description
Job Description
Decatur Shelby County YMCA
Job Description
Job Title: Lifeguard
Original Date: 05/15/2025
Revised Date:
Department: Aquatics
Reports To: Aquatics Coordinator
Basic Functions and Scope of Responsibility
Lifeguards are responsible for ensuring a safe, clean, and welcoming aquatic environment. This role maintains constant vigilance of the pool area, enforces safety rules, and responds quickly and effectively to emergencies. Lifeguards represent the YMCA’s commitment to safety, member engagement, and community well-being.
Role Responsibilities
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Maintain active and vigilant surveillance of the pool, deck, and surrounding areas to prevent accidents and injuries
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Enforce all aquatic safety rules, policies, and procedures consistently and respectfully
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Respond immediately to emergencies in accordance with YMCA protocols; complete required incident and accident reports
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Conduct routine inspections of the pool area and equipment to identify and address potential hazards
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Perform regular chemical testing and record results accurately (when not actively guarding)
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Ensure safety equipment is readily available and in good working condition
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Maintain accurate records as required by the YMCA and health department regulations
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Attend all required staff meetings, trainings, and in-service sessions to maintain certification and readiness
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Promote a positive and inclusive atmosphere for all members and guests
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Perform additional duties as assigned to support the aquatic team and YMCA mission
Education, Experience & Training
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Minimum age of 15
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Lifeguard Certification
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6 months experience or equivalent
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CPR for the Professional Rescuer or equivalent, First Aid and Emergency Oxygen
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Ability to pass a pre-hire swim and safety test
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Ability to maintain recertification as required under YMCA policies
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Ability to maintain physical and mental alertness and readiness throughout each shift
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Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to enforce rules with courtesy and confidence
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Commitment to safety and ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds and abilities
Core Competencies
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Caring: Show a sincere concern for others
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Honesty: Be truthful in what you say and do
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Respect: Follow the golden rule
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Responsibility: Be accountable for your promises and actions
Work Environment and Physical Demands
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Visual, auditory, and verbal ability to communicate effectively.
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Must have a high level of alertness, concentration, and initiative.
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Ability to lift 50 lbs. and stand, walk, or sit for extended periods of time; occasionally stoop/bend
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Ability to spend extended periods of time in an indoor aquatic environment
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Ability to sit for long periods of time, climb a ladder, lift and carry 50 pounds.
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The noise level for this position is moderate to loud.
Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to the job. The job description is not intended to be a complete list of responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees in the job classification. This document is not a contract and does not, in any way, alter the at-will employment relationship.
DSYMCA provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type with regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity of expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.