LIFEGUARD

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

Maintain active and vigilant surveillance of the pool, deck, and surrounding areas to prevent accidents and injuries

Enforce all aquatic safety rules, policies, and procedures consistently and respectfully

Respond immediately to emergencies in accordance with YMCA protocols; complete required incident and accident reports

Conduct routine inspections of the pool area and equipment to identify and address potential hazards

Perform regular chemical testing and record results accurately (when not actively guarding)

Ensure safety equipment is readily available and in good working condition

Maintain accurate records as required by the YMCA and health department regulations

Attend all required staff meetings, trainings, and in-service sessions to maintain certification and readiness

Promote a positive and inclusive atmosphere for all members and guests

Perform additional duties as assigned to support the aquatic team and YMCA mission

Education, Experience & Training

Minimum age of 15

Lifeguard Certification

6 months experience or equivalent

CPR for the Professional Rescuer or equivalent, First Aid and Emergency Oxygen

Ability to pass a pre-hire swim and safety test

Ability to maintain recertification as required under YMCA policies

Ability to maintain physical and mental alertness and readiness throughout each shift

Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to enforce rules with courtesy and confidence

Commitment to safety and ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds and abilities

Core Competencies

Caring: Show a sincere concern for others

Honesty: Be truthful in what you say and do

Respect: Follow the golden rule

Responsibility: Be accountable for your promises and actions

Work Environment and Physical Demands

Visual, auditory, and verbal ability to communicate effectively.

Must have a high level of alertness, concentration, and initiative.

Ability to lift 50 lbs. and stand, walk, or sit for extended periods of time; occasionally stoop/bend

Ability to spend extended periods of time in an indoor aquatic environment

Ability to sit for long periods of time, climb a ladder, lift and carry 50 pounds.

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.

Full-time