Job Overview
The Town of Plainfield Recreation Department is seeking a responsible and experienced Head Lifeguard to support the Aquatics Coordinator in overseeing daily pool operations and aquatic safety.
This role expands upon traditional lifeguarding duties by taking a leadership position during high-volume activities. The Head Lifeguard supervises aquatics staff, enforces pool rules and safety procedures, and helps ensure a safe, welcoming environment for all patrons.
This is a year-round, part-time position working approximately 20 hours per week.
Essential Duties
- Provide safety supervision for staff, volunteers, and patrons across all aquatic areas
- Monitor pool, deck, and facility areas to prevent accidents and ensure safe operations
- Enforce aquatics rules, regulations, and safety policies; address unsafe behavior as needed
- Perform all required lifeguarding skills and emergency response procedures
- Assist Aquatics Coordinator with onboarding and training of new lifeguards
- Fill in for lifeguards as needed and ensure proper shift coverage
- Support swim lesson programs when required
- Deliver high-quality customer service in a professional manner at all times
- Inspect and help maintain pool equipment; report maintenance needs
- Ensure pool and restroom areas remain clean, safe, and operational
- Maintain logs, records, and documentation as directed
- Participate in in-service training, drills, and emergency preparedness activities
- Assist in planning swim programs and class sessions
- Communicate staff and patron concerns to the Aquatics Coordinator
- Determine weather-related safety risks and follow proper closure procedures
- Assist with pool chemistry testing and basic mechanical monitoring as trained
- Serve as a role model for lifeguards and swim instructors
- Ensure compliance with all Town of Plainfield certification requirements
- Respond to emergency situations and provide care as needed
- Complete accident and incident reports and notify management immediately
- Report to work in proper uniform and arrive 15 minutes prior to shift start
- Maintain a professional, respectful demeanor in all interactions
- Demonstrate strong teamwork, leadership, and a positive attitude
Minimum Requirements
- Must be 18 years of age or older
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required
- Flexible availability including days, evenings, and weekends
- Minimum of 3 years’ experience as a lifeguard and/or swim instructor
- Current American Red Cross Lifeguarding Certification with CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers and First Aid (Deep Water required)
- Water Safety Instructor certification (preferred)
- Lifeguard Instructor certification (preferred)
- Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
- Ability to remain calm and effective under pressure
- Basic knowledge of pool chemistry and willingness to learn pool operations
- Ability to enforce rules and manage lifeguard rotations and breaks
- Reliable attendance and punctuality required
Working Conditions & Physical Requirements
- Work is performed in an indoor heated, chlorinated aquatic facility
- Must maintain constant alertness and respond to emergency signals
- Requires full visual monitoring of assigned aquatic areas
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
- Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, reaching, and physical activity
- Must be able to work in and around water and perform rescues when necessary
- Must remain capable of extended physical exertion in emergency situations
Additional Information
This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties or responsibilities. The Town of Plainfield Recreation Department reserves the right to modify duties as needed.
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a background check and drug screening (if applicable).
The Town of Plainfield is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.
How to Apply
Visit plainfieldct.org to access the Town of Plainfield Employment Application.
Submit your completed application, resume, and cover letter to:
Virginia Oliver, HR Director by Fax 860-230-3033 or email: [email protected]
Pay: $22.00 - $24.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Employee assistance program
Work Location: In person
