Lifeguard

Description

POSITION SUMMARY:

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The Lifeguard at the Plattsburgh YMCA creates a safe and positive atmosphere that welcomes and respects all individuals while promoting and maintain safe swimming conditions in the pool, deck and surrounding areas in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Maintains active surveillance of the pool area. 
• Responds to emergency situations immediately in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures.  
• Completes related reports as required.
• Responds to challenges with possible solutions in a timely manner.
• Knows, understands, and consistently applies safety rules, policies, and guidelines for the pool and aquatic area.
• Remains calm and objective when under pressure or when challenged by others.
• Performs all secondary duties in a timely manner as required for each shift. 
• Performs all lifeguard duties, including ability to lift people out of pool, perform CPR and scanning the pool to ensure safety of participants.
• Maintains accurate records as required by the YMCA and/or the state health department code.
• Performs equipment checks and ensures appropriate equipment is available as needed.
• Checks the pool for hazardous conditions when arriving and for the duration of the shift.
• Performs chemical testing, as required, and takes appropriate action.
• Attends Staff meetings and trainings as scheduled.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Prefer lifeguards 18 years of age and older; minimum age of 15.  Lifeguards under 16 years of age cannot lifeguard alone. 
• Certifications: American Red Cross Lifeguard or equivalent (must include CPR/AED, First Aid) 
• Ability to maintain certification-level physical and mental readiness
• Must demonstrate lifeguard skills in accordance with YMCA standards

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Perform a Lifeguard Skills test during the interview process; includes endurance, a timed event, and demonstration of CPR and lifeguard rescue skills. 
• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. 
• Physically perform all skills required of a lifeguard.
• Hear noises and distress signals in the aquatic environment, including in the water and anywhere around the zone of responsibility. 
• Remain alert with no lapses of consciousness. 
• Able to work and make decisions independently as well as in a team atmosphere.
• See and observe all sections of an assigned zone or area of responsibility. 
• Able to lift at least 50 pounds.