About this role
POSITION DETAILS Job Title: Lifeguard Status: Part Time Non-Exempt Department: Aquatics Reports to: Director of Healthy Living
POSITION SUMMARY: The Lifeguard plays a vital role in advancing the YMCA’s mission of strengthening community by connecting people to their potential, purpose, and one another. This position is responsible for maintaining a safe, supervised aquatic environment that prevents accidents, responds to emergencies, and promotes confidence in and around the water. Guided by the YMCA’s core values—Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility—we foster a culture that is Welcoming, Genuine, Hopeful, Nurturing, and Determined.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Create a welcoming environment.
• Deliver high-quality service aligned with departmental standards and YMCA goals.
• Ensure physical and emotional safety of all participants, staff, and members.
• Build positive relationships with peers, participants, and families through respectful and consistent communication.
• Maintain clean, safe, and organized program/work environments; promptly report any concerns or incidents.
• Attend and actively participate in required trainings, meetings, and organizational events.
• Uphold YMCA policies and represent the organization with professionalism, integrity, and respect.
• Model YMCA core values and use the Y-Voice: Welcoming, Hopeful, Determined, Genuine, and Nurturing.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of the YMCA’s mission and strategic goals.
YMCA COMPETENCY AREAS:
• Mission Advancement: Models the Y’s mission, values, and service standards in every interaction.
• Operational Effectiveness: Maintains focus, attention to detail, and readiness in fast-paced environments.
• Emotional Maturity: Demonstrates sound judgment and remains composed during stressful or emergency situations.
QUALIFICATIONS:
• Must be at least 15 years of age.
• Certification in CPR/AED for Professional Rescuer, First Aid, and Lifeguarding (YMCA, Red Cross, or equivalent).
• Approved Mandatory Child Abuse Reporting Certification.
• Emergency procedures training.
• Must maintain certification-level physical and mental readiness.
• Demonstrated ability to perform all lifeguard skills to YMCA standards.
• Understands that the YMCA is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
REQUIRED TRAINING AND CERTIFICATIONS (or willingness to obtain upon hire):
• YMCA-approved Bloodborne Pathogens Training
• Mandatory Child Abuse Reporting Certification
• Emergency Procedures Training
• CPR and First Aid Certification
• Lifeguard Certification (YMCA, Red Cross, or equivalent)
WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
• Physically perform all lifeguard rescue and scanning skills.
• Hear and respond to distress signals in a noisy aquatic environment.
• Remain alert and responsive during long periods of surveillance.
• Maintain visual contact across the full zone of responsibility.
• Work indoors and outdoors in varied weather conditions.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
IMPACT STATEMENT: This role directly contributes to the Norm Waitt Sr. YMCA’s mission by creating transformational experiences through meaningful connections, quality service, and a welcoming environment. In doing so, it strengthens both our Siouxland community and the broader impact of the YMCA across the country.