Head Lifeguard

Job DetailsLevel: ExperiencedJob Location: Southwest YMCA - Denver, CO 80236Position Type: Full TimeSalary Range: $20.50 - $21.50 HourlyJob Shift: Any 

Must have 1+ years of Lifeguarding experience. Active Lifeguarding certification required.

Do you have eagle eyes, a calm-under-pressure mindset, and the ability to make safety look cool? We’re looking for a Head Lifeguard who’s ready to lead the deck, support a team, and help create a safe, welcoming space for every member of our community.

Why This Role Matters
At the YMCA, you’re not just watching the water—you’re helping people feel confident, safe, and connected. As Head Lifeguard, you’ll lead by example and make a real impact every single day.

 

What You’ll Do


Lead and support a team of lifeguards with energy and accountability
Ensure a safe aquatic environment for all swimmers
Jump into action when needed (yes, literally)
Help train, coach, and mentor staff
Keep the pool deck positive, professional, and fun


 

You Bring


Current lifeguard certification (American Red Cross or equivalent)
Strong leadership and communication skills
The ability to stay cool—even when things heat up
A team-first attitude and commitment to safety


 

Perks


Free YMCA membership
Leadership development opportunities
A workplace where you can truly make a difference
A team that feels like family


 

 

POSITION SUMMARY 

The Head Guard, working as part of the Aquatics team, will deliver world-class customer service and relationship building skills to create a welcoming environment at the YMCA. The Head Guard will be responsible for assisting the Aquatic Manager/Director with daily operations of the aquatic department along with guarding the pool and assuring a safe and clean aquatic environment for members and guests. The incumbent will also exhibit the core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility in all aspects of their work with the YMCA.  

 

OUR PATH

For 150 years, the YMCA of Metro Denver has been more than a place - it is a movement that lifts spirit, mind and body for all.  Our direction is clear: Elevate Lives and Rise Together.  Grounded by our mission and strengthened by the global YMCA movement we will elevate our people, purpose, partnerships and promise.

 

 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 


Provide on-deck supervision and leadership to ensure a safe and well-managed aquatics environment
Enforce all YMCA aquatics policies, procedures, and safety standards
Perform lifeguarding duties including scanning, recognizing hazards, and responding to emergencies
Lead by example in maintaining vigilance, professionalism, and engagement
Assist in training new lifeguards and facilitating in-service trainings
Monitor and adjust staff coverage, rotations, and positioning as needed
Complete incident reports and communicate effectively with leadership regarding safety concerns
Maintain cleanliness and organization of the pool deck and equipment areas
Build positive, respectful relationships with members, participants, and staff


 

 

WORK ENVIRONMENT


Primarily performed in an indoor and/or outdoor aquatics facility
Environment includes warm, humid, and high-noise conditions during peak hours
Frequent interaction with members of all ages in and around the water
Fast-paced environment requiring constant vigilance and attention to detail
Work schedule may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays


 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS 


Ability to sit, stand, or walk for extended periods while maintaining alertness
Continuous visual and auditory scanning of the pool and surrounding areas
Ability to swim, rescue, and remove individuals from the water in emergency situations
Frequent use of hands and arms for signaling, assisting, and performing rescues
Ability to lift and assist individuals in and out of the pool (may exceed 50 lbs in emergency situations)
Ability to perform CPR, First Aid, and emergency response protocols as required
Must be able to respond quickly and effectively in emergency situations


 

DISCLAIMER

The YMCA of Metropolitan Denver reserves the right to modify, add, or remove job duties and responsibilities as business needs evolve.

 This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications required for the position.

 Employment with the YMCA of Metropolitan Denver is at-will and may be terminated by either the employee or the organization at any time, with or without cause or notice, in accordance with applicable law.

 

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER STATEMENT

The YMCA of Metropolitan Denver is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race