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
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Lead and support a team of lifeguards with energy and accountability
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Ensure a safe aquatic environment for all swimmers
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Jump into action when needed (yes, literally)
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Help train, coach, and mentor staff
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Keep the pool deck positive, professional, and fun
You Bring
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Current lifeguard certification (American Red Cross or equivalent)
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Strong leadership and communication skills
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The ability to stay cool—even when things heat up
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A team-first attitude and commitment to safety
Perks
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Free YMCA membership
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Leadership development opportunities
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A workplace where you can truly make a difference
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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
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Enforce all YMCA aquatics policies, procedures, and safety standards
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Perform lifeguarding duties including scanning, recognizing hazards, and responding to emergencies
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Lead by example in maintaining vigilance, professionalism, and engagement
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Assist in training new lifeguards and facilitating in-service trainings
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Monitor and adjust staff coverage, rotations, and positioning as needed
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Complete incident reports and communicate effectively with leadership regarding safety concerns
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Maintain cleanliness and organization of the pool deck and equipment areas
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Build positive, respectful relationships with members, participants, and staff
WORK ENVIRONMENT
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Primarily performed in an indoor and/or outdoor aquatics facility
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Environment includes warm, humid, and high-noise conditions during peak hours
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Frequent interaction with members of all ages in and around the water
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Fast-paced environment requiring constant vigilance and attention to detail
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Work schedule may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
- Ability to sit, stand, or walk for extended periods while maintaining alertness
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Continuous visual and auditory scanning of the pool and surrounding areas
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Ability to swim, rescue, and remove individuals from the water in emergency situations
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Frequent use of hands and arms for signaling, assisting, and performing rescues
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Ability to lift and assist individuals in and out of the pool (may exceed 50 lbs in emergency situations)
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Ability to perform CPR, First Aid, and emergency response protocols as required
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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, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION & RISK MANAGEMENT
The YMCA is committed to the safety and well-being of all children and vulnerable individuals. As part of our commitment to child abuse prevention and Praesidium accreditation standards, all employees are required to comply with YMCA abuse prevention policies, including screening, training, supervision, and reporting requirements.
Minimum age of 18 years
Current lifeguard certification (YMCA, Red Cross, or equivalent)
Current CPR/AED and First Aid certification
Previous lifeguarding experience
Strong communication and leadership skills
Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions in emergency situations
Commitment to YMCA values: Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility
Ability to pass a background check
Free individual membership
Program discounts
Generous Retirement Contribution Options -Includes company contribution of 10% once eligibility is met
Employee Assistance Program
Accrue 1 hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked
Paid Time off for those scheduled and working 20+ per week
