GENERAL FUNCTION

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

KNOW-HOW

A qualified candidate must possess the following:

· Minimum age of 15

· Certifications: Basic life support or professional rescuer CPR/AED, first aid and emergency oxygen administration

· Current American Red Cross Lifeguard or equivalent

· Child abuse prevention training within 30 days of hire

· Ability to maintain certification-level physical and mental readiness

· Must demonstrate lifeguard skills in accordance with YMCA standards

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

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. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions:

· 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

· See and observe all sections of an assigned zone or area of responsibility

· Must pass the American Red Cross pre-requisite steps – 300 yard continuous swim, 2 minute tread without hands and brick retrieval from the deepest end of the pool

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

· Maintain active surveillance of the pool area.

· Knows and reviews all emergency procedures and responds to emergency situations immediately in accordance with YMCA policies, procedures and the “safe-in-six” model; 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.

· 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.

· Performs chemical testing when not guarding, as required, and takes appropriate action.

BENEFITS

• Free YMCA membership
• Discount on YMCA programs and merchandise
• 403(b) and 401(a) upon eligibility
• Paid time off in conjunction with IL Paid Leave for All Workers Act

EFFECT ON END RESULT

When all responsibilities are fulfilled, the YMCA will benefit from the following:

1. An enjoyable environment in which members and participants are/feel safe.
2. The development of good, strong relationships between the YMCA and members/participants.

ABUSE PREVENTION

As a YMCA staff member, you are responsible for ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all members, participants, and colleagues. This includes actively adhering to and promoting the YMCA's abuse risk management policies, which are designed to prevent and address any potential incidents of abuse. You are expected to remain vigilant in recognizing signs of abuse, report any concerns or suspicious behaviors immediately, and participate in required training to stay informed on best practices for safeguarding. Your commitment to these protocols is essential in fostering a trusted, respectful, and secure environment for everyone involved in YMCA programs and services.