YMCA Anthony Bowen Lifeguard

The YMCA of Metropolitan Washington is one of the largest nonprofits in the DC area. The Y serves as an anchor in the community, offering programs and services focused on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

Position: Lifeguard         Salary: $17.95 per hour  

We invite you to join us in this important work—develop your skills, realize your leadership potential, and discover a career that is more than just a job. As part of a long-standing and reputable organization that helped pioneer many aquatic programs, you will gain valuable experience, enjoy flexible part-time scheduling, and become part of a supportive, high-performing team.

You will make a difference every day by helping ensure the safety of all pool participants. The Y will provide lifeguard, CPR, and AED certification training.

About the Role

The Lifeguard is responsible for supervising swimming activities at YMCA aquatic facilities and ensuring the safety of all participants by preventing accidents and responding quickly and effectively in emergencies.

Key Responsibilities

• Enforce pool rules and water safety policies
• Respond to emergencies, including performing rescues and administering CPR and/or first aid when necessary
• Evaluate conditions for safety and activate emergency action plans as needed
• Inspect pool facilities, equipment, and water to ensure safe and usable conditions
• Assist with pool maintenance, including cleaning, chemical testing, and recordkeeping
• Maintain accurate records of water quality tests and incident reports
• Support safe and clean aquatic environments at all times

Qualifications

• Must be at least 16 years of age and able to swim
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to engage with participants of all ages
• Attentive, reliable, and able to problem-solve in dynamic situations
• Current lifeguard certification preferred
• CPR and First Aid certification preferred

Physical Requirements / Working Conditions

• Must meet YMCA lifeguarding prerequisites
• Ability to lift and move objects up to 40 pounds
• Swim 500 yards
• Tread water for 2 minutes (legs only)
• Retrieve a submerged training victim from deep water
• Perform active and passive victim rescues using a rescue tube
• Perform backboard rescues
• Ability to visually and audibly monitor patrons for distress or assistance

Benefits

YMCA employees enjoy a wide range of benefits and discounts. Additional benefits include:

• 10% employer-funded retirement plan (vesting after two years or 1,000 hours per year)
• 403(b) savings plan
• High-quality and affordable healthcare options
• Free YMCA membership 
• Paid time off and sick leave
• Ongoing professional development opportunities

The YMCA of Metropolitan Washington is an equal opportunity employer committed to a workplace culture where all employees are treated with fairness and respect.