Job Description
Job DescriptionSalary:
POSITION DETAILS
Job Title: Lifeguard
Status: Part Time Non-Exempt
Department: Aquatics
Reports to: Director of Healthy Living
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Lifeguard plays a vital role in advancing the YMCAs mission of strengthening community by connecting people to their potential, purpose, and one another. This position is responsible for maintaining a safe, supervised aquatic environment that prevents accidents, responds to emergencies, and promotes confidence in and around the water. Guided by the YMCAs core valuesCaring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibilitywe foster a culture that is Welcoming, Genuine, Hopeful, Nurturing, and Determined.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Create a welcoming environment.
- Deliver high-quality service aligned with departmental standards and YMCA goals.
- Ensure physical and emotional safety of all participants, staff, and members.
- Build positive relationships with peers, participants, and families through respectful and consistent communication.
- Maintain clean, safe, and organized program/work environments; promptly report any concerns or incidents.
- Attend and actively participate in required trainings, meetings, and organizational events.
- Uphold YMCA policies and represent the organization with professionalism, integrity, and respect.
- Model YMCA core values and use the Y-Voice: Welcoming, Hopeful, Determined, Genuine, and Nurturing.
- Perform other duties as assigned in support of the YMCAs mission and strategic goals.
YMCA COMPETENCY AREAS:
- Mission Advancement: Models the Ys mission, values, and service standards in every interaction.
- Operational Effectiveness: Maintains focus, attention to detail, and readiness in fast-paced environments.
- Emotional Maturity: Demonstrates sound judgment and remains composed during stressful or emergency situations.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Must be at least 15 years of age.
- Certification in CPR/AED for Professional Rescuer, First Aid, and Lifeguarding (YMCA, Red Cross, or equivalent).
- Approved Mandatory Child Abuse Reporting Certification.
- Emergency procedures training.
- Must maintain certification-level physical and mental readiness.
- Demonstrated ability to perform all lifeguard skills to YMCA standards.
- Understands that the YMCA is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
REQUIRED TRAINING AND CERTIFICATIONS (or willingness to obtain upon hire):
- YMCA-approved Bloodborne Pathogens Training
- Mandatory Child Abuse Reporting Certification
- Emergency Procedures Training
- CPR and First Aid Certification
- Lifeguard Certification (YMCA, Red Cross, or equivalent)
WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
- Physically perform all lifeguard rescue and scanning skills.
- Hear and respond to distress signals in a noisy aquatic environment.
- Remain alert and responsive during long periods of surveillance.
- Maintain visual contact across the full zone of responsibility.
- Work indoors and outdoors in varied weather conditions.
- Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
IMPACT STATEMENT:
This role directly contributes to the Norm Waitt Sr. YMCAs mission by creating transformational experiences through meaningful connections, quality service, and a welcoming environment. In doing so, it strengthens both our Siouxland community and the broader impact of the YMCA across the country.