Lifeguard

The Lifeguard 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. 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.  

West Cook YMCA Abuse Policy  

The West Cook YMCA will not tolerate the mistreatment or abuse of youth or consumers in its programs. A youth is defined as anyone younger than 18 years of age. Any mistreatment or abuse by a staff member or volunteer will result in corrective action, up to and including termination of employment or volunteer service. All reports of suspicious or inappropriate behavior with youth or an allegation of abuse will be taken seriously.

The West Cook YMCA will fully cooperate with authorities to investigate all cases of alleged abuse. All West Cook YMCA staff and volunteers shall cooperate to the fullest extent possible in any external investigation by outside authorities or internal investigation conducted by the West Cook YMCA or persons given investigative authority by the West Cook YMCA. Failure to cooperate fully may be grounds for termination.

• Maintains active surveillance of the pool area
• Knows and reviews all emergency procedures and responds to emergency situations immediately in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures
• 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 , and takes appropriate action
• Is committed to maintaining a workplace free from all forms of harassment
• Adheres to policies related to boundaries with youth
• Attends required abuse risk management training
• Adheres to procedures related to managing high-risk activities and supervising youth
• Reports suspicious or inappropriate behaviors and policy violations
• Follows mandated abuse reporting requirements

• Minimum age of 15 with a support lifeguard  

• Certifications: Basic life support or professional rescuer CPR/AED, first aid  

• Current YMCA Lifeguard or equivalent 

• Child abuse prevention training within 30 days of hire date 

• Ability to maintain certification-level physical and mental readiness 

• Must demonstrate lifeguard skills in accordance with YMCA standards 

• Is committed to maintaining a workplace free from all forms of harassment 

• Adheres to policies related to boundaries with youth

• Attends required abuse risk management training

• Adheres to procedures related to managing high-risk activities and supervising youth

• Reports suspicious or inappropriate behaviors and policy violations
• Follows mandated abuse reporting requirements

WORK ENVIRONMENT & 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 meet all Association-Wide training requirements in addition to those set forth by their Supervisor

• Must be able to pass a Nationwide Criminal and Sex Offender Registry Background Screening

• Must ensure that the physical and social environments for program delivery reflect the Y’s definition of character and values

• Free Household Membership
• Program discounts
• Paid Sick Time

OUR CULTURE:   
Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day.  We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.