Lifeguard I

Summary

Under immediate supervision, monitors activities in the water, pool decks, and ancillary areas of aquatics facilities to ensure the safety of patrons; learns, explains, and enforces safe swimming programs and pool policies, regulations, and rules. Performs rescues and administers first aid, CPR, and AED as needed; and performs related work as required.

Supervision Received And Exercised

Receives immediate supervision from higher-level supervisory staff and direction from higher-level staff. Exercises no supervision over staff.

Distinguishing Characteristics

This is the entry-level classification in the Lifeguard series. Initially under close supervision, incumbents learn to perform essential lifeguard duties. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied; close supervision and frequent review of work is reduced as an incumbent demonstrates the skills necessary to perform the work independently.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.

  • Provides aquatics safety and supervision for patrons; monitors activities in the water, pool decks, and ancillary areas of District aquatic facilities to prevent accidents, and to ensure the safety and well-being of patrons.
  • Implements and monitors District policies and procedures; enforces aquatics regulations; cautions patrons regarding unsafe activities.
  • Performs all required lifeguard-training skills as needed.
  • Assists and aids in swim lesson programs under the direction of assigned Swim Instructor.
  • Provides high quality customer service in a safe and timely manner.
  • Inspects and maintains swimming and pool equipment for functionality, ensures proper placement and availability in the pool area, and recommends maintenance and repair as needed.
  • Maintains pool and restroom areas in a safe and clean condition.
  • Maintains logs and records of activities.
  • Participates in required training sessions, including safety drills and other emergency procedures.
  • Assists with District special events as needed.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

  • Prior experience participating in aquatics programs or performing lifeguard duties is desirable.

Knowledge of:

  • Principles and techniques of lifeguarding, including lifesaving methods and procedures.
  • Operational characteristics of water rescue safety equipment and devices.
  • Principles and practices for providing high level of customer service.
  • Modern office practices, methods, and computer equipment and applications.

Ability to:

  • Learn and understand the organization and operation of the District’s aquatics facilities.
  • Learn, monitor, and enforce District regulations, policies, and procedures.
  • React to and handle swimmer rescue and medical emergencies in a safe and effective manner.
  • Administer first aid, CPR, and AED as needed.
  • Maintain order and safety in a crowded and noisy environment.
  • Maintain facilities and equipment in a clean, safe, and secure manner.
  • Perform work in an efficient, effective, safe, and timely manner.
  • Demonstrate strong customer service skills and establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships.
  • Use English effectively to communicate in person, over the telephone, and in writing.

Licenses and Certifications:

  • At time of appointment, American Red Cross Lifeguard certification maintained throughout employment.

Physical Demands

Work is primarily performed within a public swimming pool environment, where stamina is needed to perform moderate to heavy lifting of pool equipment and furniture or children and adults who may require removal from the pool, and to stay in the pool for prolonged periods. Must possess the mobility to stand, stoop, kneel, reach, bend, climb, push and pull materials and equipment, and swim while wearing an appropriate uniform with protective equipment. Vision and hearing must be sufficient to see and hear adults and children in crowded and noisy conditions and/or situations. Must also possess: the mobility to work in an office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person or by using a telephone and radio. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or to operate safety equipment. Must possess the ability to swim distances and dive to pool depths, as determined by testing/certification authorities, and to lift 150 pounds or heavier weights with assistance and/or the use of proper equipment.

Environmental Elements

Incumbents work outdoors in a pool environment with wet and slippery conditions, and are exposed to variable weather conditions; may be exposed to chlorine, acids, and other chemicals at aquatics facilities, as well as blood and body fluids while rendering first aid and CPR. Incumbents will interact with individuals in interpreting and enforcing rules, policies, and procedures.

Working Conditions

Incumbents may be assigned an irregular work schedule, including weekends, early mornings, evenings, and holidays.

Pre-Employment Conditions

  • Department of Justice fingerprint clearance.
  • Medical exam and drug testing clearance.
  • Work Permit if applicable.

Classification Details/History

Date Adopted: 4/26/17 Job Code: PT270 FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Supersedes: Lifeguard dated 3/14/07