Head Lifeguard – Full Time Seasonal (On Site) in Ridgeland, South Carolina at YMCA of the Lowcountry

Salary: Minimum $15.00/hour - Maximum $16.50/hour

Type: Full-Time – Non-Exempt

Schedule: Up to 40 hours per week, Seasonal

Reports to: Aquatics Director

Organization Overview

At the YMCA of the Lowcountry, we are more than an organization — we are a cause. Together, we strengthen our community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Our staff are at the heart of this mission, creating safe, welcoming environments where children grow, families thrive, and everyone feels a sense of belonging.

Position Overview

The Head Lifeguard is responsible for creating a safe, welcoming, and positive aquatic environment while promoting and maintaining safe swimming conditions in the pool, on the deck, and surrounding areas in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures. Success in this role results in high-quality programs, increased participation, and an enhanced member experience.

Benefits You’ll Receive

• Complimentary YMCA Membership for Part-Time employees. An additional adult family member may be added for $20 per month.
• Participation in the National YMCA Retirement Fund, a defined contribution plan. Employees become eligible for a 12% employer contribution after completing 1,000 hours of service in each of two 12-month periods (doesn’t have to be consecutive).
• All staff are eligible to make voluntary 403(b) retirement contributions (no employer match).
• Discounts on YMCA Programs (Immediate Family)
• 50% discount for staff working 20 or more hours per pay period
• 25% discount for staff working 10–19 hours per pay period
• 15% discount for staff working fewer than 10 hours per pay period

What You’ll Do:

• Maintain active surveillance of the pool and surrounding areas.
• Know, review, and respond to all emergency procedures using YMCA protocols and the Safe-in-Six model; complete all required incident reports.
• Enforce safety rules, policies, and guidelines consistently.
• Remain calm, alert, and professional in high-pressure or challenging situations.
• Identify and respond to unsafe conditions or behaviors promptly.
• Maintain accurate records in compliance with YMCA and state health department requirements.
• Conduct equipment checks and ensure necessary safety equipment is available and in working order.
• Inspect pool and deck areas for hazards at the start of each shift.
• Perform chemical testing when not actively guarding and take appropriate action as needed.
• Practice proactive lifeguarding by routinely scanning and monitoring assigned zones.
• Assist with training, coaching, and ensuring all lifeguards complete required certifications and trainings

What We’re Looking For:

• Minimum age of 16
• Current YMCA Lifeguard Certification (or equivalent)
• Certifications required:
• CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer
• First Aid
• Emergency Oxygen Administration
• Completion of Child Abuse Prevention Training within 30 days of hire
• Ability to maintain certification-level physical and mental readiness
• Demonstrated ability to perform lifeguard skills in accordance with YMCA standards

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Ability to perform all physical requirements of lifeguarding duties
• Ability to hear noises and distress signals in and around the aquatic environment
• Ability to remain alert with no lapses in attention
• Ability to visually monitor all areas of responsibility at all times
• Ability to respond quickly and effectively in emergency situations
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

The YMCA of the Lowcountry is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position. Applicants requiring accommodation during the application or interview process should contact Human Resources.