Full-Time Lifeguard (Team Lead)

About the Role

The YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth is seeking a dedicated Full-Time Lifeguard (Team Lead) to maintain a secure and welcoming aquatic environment at the John W. Lindsay YMCA in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. This role includes active lifeguarding duties while also coordinating daily aquatic operations and leading aquatic staff and lifeguards during their shifts, ensuring compliance with safety procedures, YMCA policies, and program standards.

The YMCA is a community-driven charity focused on addressing various issues such as childcare shortages, social isolation, mental health, accessible wellness, and community support across over 100 locations in HRM and the province. The organization empowers individuals to realize their potential through inclusive and supportive programs, fostering resilience and community spirit.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain a vigilant and inclusive aquatic environment to ensure the safety and belonging of all members, participants, and visitors.
• Provide leadership by supporting and guiding lifeguards and aquatic staff during shifts, fostering teamwork and respect.
• Exemplify the YMCA Service Delivery Standards known as "The Y Way," including attentive member acknowledgement, proactive assistance, and adherence to the 5/10 Rule of engagement.
• Maintain cleanliness, orderliness, and safety across workspaces and program areas, promptly reporting unresolved issues.
• Respond swiftly and competently to aquatic emergencies, administering rescues, first aid, CPR, and emergency procedures according to YMCA guidelines.
• Support training and professional development of staff to enhance team confidence and delivery of safe aquatic programs.
• Conduct regular safety inspections of aquatic facilities and equipment, addressing hazards timely.
• Promote and embody YMCA core values: caring, honesty, respect, responsibility, and belonging.
• Perform additional duties to support the Aquatics Department's operations and community enrichment goals.

Qualifications and Skills

• 1 to 3 years of relevant experience in lifeguarding.
• Possession of a valid National Lifeguard Service (NLS) certificate.
• Additional certifications such as Lifesaving Society Swim Instructor, Red Cross Water Safety Instructor, or YMCA Swim Instruction are considered assets.
• Certified in Standard First Aid and CPR with a demonstrated safety-conscious approach.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Strong interpersonal and customer service capabilities.
• Bilingual or multilingual candidates are highly valued.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team setting.
• Flexibility to accommodate irregular working hours when required.

Additional Information

• Applicants aged 18 or over must provide a Criminal Record Check, Vulnerable Sector Check, and Child Abuse Register Check dated within the last six months.
• All employees must hold valid First Aid and CPR certifications.
• Background checks are assessed in relation to the position, with consideration for child safeguarding requirements and will not necessarily disqualify candidates based on offenses.
• The YMCA is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, encouraging applications from diverse backgrounds including racial minorities, LGBTQIA+ communities, people with disabilities, ethnic minorities, faith groups, immigrants, and veterans.
• Reasonable accommodations during the recruitment process are available upon request.