Aquatics- Lifeguard

CLASS DEFINITION:

Incumbents in the Lifeguard classification maintain vigilance of the pool, water, deck and other areas of an aquatic facility to insure the safety of all pool visitors through enforcement of pool rules and regulations during public swim, special events, swim lessons and other aquatics activities; perform swimming rescues, first aid and CPR as needed; respond to other emergencies as they occur, activating the District's Emergency Action plan and calling 911, as appropriate; assist swim instructors in the provision of swimming lessons and/or may conduct swimming lessons once they have completed Sunrise Swim Instructor training and under the direct supervision of a Pool Manager; participates in aquatic in-service trainings; may assist a Head Swim Coach in the supervision and instruction of aquatic activities during team training sessions and/or swim meets; and perform related work as assigned or required. Additionally, once certified in WSI a Lifeguard can create swim lesson plans and provide guidance to less experienced lifeguard staff.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:

Incumbents in the Lifeguard classification are part-time seasonal employees and may not advance to permanent status in any District job classification. Hours of work vary based on the staffing needs of the District. The WSI Certified Lifeguard is distinguished from the non WSI certified Lifeguard by the greater level of training, responsibility, judgement, and independence exercised in the performance of a broader range of assigned duties.

EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS:

Any combination of education and experience that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical path to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:
Education and Experience Guidelines:
Must be at least 15 years of age. No prior experience is required, but completion of the Sunrise Swim Instructor Aide Course is required prior to aiding swim lessons.
Lifeguards may also take the Sunrise Swim Instructor Course and teach swim lessons if supervised by a Pool Manager.
Licenses/Certification Required:
- A current American Red Cross Lifeguard Training certificate
- A current American Red Cross CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer certificate
- A current American Red Cross Title 22 First Aid for Public Personnel certificate
- A current American Red Cross Administering Emergency Oxygen certificate
Knowledge of:
- current and preventive lifeguarding techniques
- principles and practices of water safety and swimming rescue techniques
- proper stroke mechanics
- principles and techniques of first aid and CPR
- instruction techniques and materials and equipment used in aquatic activities
- principles and techniques of effective interpersonal communication, public relations and customer service
- Once Certified in WSI a Lifeguard must have additional knowledge of:
- principles and techniques of swimming instruction appropriate to a variety of age groups and skill levels

Environmental Conditions:
The essential duties of this job are primarily performed in an outdoor environment, on slippery wet surfaces with exposure to varying climate and temperature conditions including exposure to sunlight; with continuous contact with facility patrons and frequent contact with other District staff; with hands and body immersed in water; and with daily exposure to constant loud noise and chemicals in the air, water, and on the skin. Some essential duties, such as cleaning restrooms and completing paperwork are performed indoors. Incumbents work various shifts including weekends and evenings.