Lifeguard

Becoming a lifeguard is not just about watching a swimming pool. Lifeguards are lifesaving professionals who have a great impact in strengthening their communities. They protect life, explain the importance of water safety and support healthy living recreation. At the YMCA of the Blue Water Area we offer the American Red Cross Lifeguarding course. Contact the front desk about our next class. YMCA employees have the opportunity to receive their certification for FREE! Imagine going to work knowing that what you do each day positively affects the lives of the people in your community. Working at the Y, you'll discover more than a job—you'll enjoy a career with a future and the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of those around you. Our staff members—of all ages and from diverse backgrounds—enjoy the personal satisfaction that comes from nurturing the potential of youth and teens, improving the area's health and well-being and providing support to our neighbors.

Some employee benefits include:

FREE YMCA

Membership Flexible hours Training and advancement Engaging Work Environment Our American Red Cross Lifeguards ensure the safety of our pool facility in a fun and uplifting environment. A successful lifeguard candidate must be knowledgeable, punctual, professional, and show concern for members and program participants.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Maintains active surveillance of the pool area. Knows/reviews all emergency procedures and responds to emergency situations immediately in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures. Completes related reports as required. Maintains effective, positive relationships with the members, participants and other staff. Knows, understands, and consistently applies safety rules, policies and guidelines for the pool and aquatic area. 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. Attends all staff meetings and in-service training. Performs chemical testing when not guarding, as required, and takes appropriate action. Checks the pool for hazardous conditions when arriving.

QUALIFICATIONS

At least 15 years of age by the last scheduled session of the class. Ability to understand and follow written instructions. Ability to work in a fast paced environment. Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community. Must be able to demonstrate lifeguarding skills in accordance with YMCA standards. If you are looking for a way to have a positive impact your community apply today!

Class Prerequisite Swimming Skills:

You must successfully complete two prerequisite swimming skill evaluations before you can start the actual lifeguarding class: Swim-Tread-Swim Sequence Without stopping to rest: Jump into deep water and fully submerge then resurface. Swim 150 yards using front crawl, breaststroke, or a combination of both (backstroke alone is not permitted). Tread water for 2 minutes using only your legs (no arm movements). Swim 50 yards using front crawl, breaststroke, or a combination of both. Timed Retrieval Event (1 minute 40 seconds max) Starting in the water, swim 20 yards. Surface dive (either feet-first or head-first) to a depth of about 7-10 feet to retrieve a 10-pound object from the bottom. Return to the surface and swim 20 yards on your back, holding the object at the surface with both hands. Exit the water without using a ladder or steps.

NEXT LIFEGUARD CLASS

Friday, June 12, 2026 12:00PM-6:00PM Saturday, June 13, 2026 8:30AM-5:00PM Sunday, June 14, 2026 8:30AM-5:00PM

SHIFTS AVAILABLE

Weekday Openers:

5:45AM•12:00

PM Weekday Midday:

8:00AM•4:00

PM Weekday Midday:

11:45AM•4:00

PM Saturday:

7:30AM•12:00

PM Saturday:

12:00PM•5:00

PM Job Type:

Part-time Pay:

$13.73 per hour

Benefits:

Employee assistance program Employee discount Flexible schedule

Work Location:

In person