Lifeguard

Tom & Ann Hunnicutt YMCA, 7827 Warwick Boulevard, Newport News, Virginia, United States of America

Posted Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at 5:00 AM

Imagine being part of one of the most respected human services organizations in the world—a place where your work positively influences the lives of others, a place where you thrive in a values-based environment, a place where you are building a better future for yourself and your community.

Under the supervision of the designated supervisor, and in harmony with the mission and purpose of the established policies and goals of the YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas, the Lifeguard is responsible for the safety of all patrons in the pool area. With an emphasis on ensuring the highest quality service to members and guests, the Lifeguard will work with all staff to welcome, connect, support, and engage all members, guests, and staff.

• Minimum of 15 years of age (with Red Cross certification; 16 for YMCA).
• YMCA lifeguard certification or, if Red Cross certified, switch over to YMCA within 6 months of hire.
• Certification in CPR/First Aid/AED/O2.
• Complete and maintain required trainings to include but not limited to:
  New Employee Orientation (NEO), Bloodborne Pathogens, Child Abuse Prevention (CAP), and Sexual Harassment upon hire and annually thereafter.
• Satisfactory completion of a criminal background check and Child Protective Services check.

• Support the mission, vision and goals of the YMCA.
• Promote a professional work environment through character development by modeling the values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.
• Lead in a manner that advances our cause to strengthen the foundations of community through programs that focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.
• Maintain vigilance without lapses in concentration.
• Know/review all emergency procedures and respond to emergency situations immediately in accordance with YMCA policies, procedures, and the “safe-in-six” model. Complete related reports as required.
• Maintain effective, positive relationships with the members, participants and other staff.
• Know, understand, and consistently apply safety rules, policies and guidelines for the pool and aquatic area. Maintain accurate records as required by the YMCA and/or the state Health Department code.
• Wear proper attire:
  • Bathing suit (must be one piece)
  • Guard shirt
  • Whistle/Lanyard
  • Rescue tube and CPR mask
  • Water shoes, sandals or flip flops (no street shoes)
  • No pants
• Lifeguard should be positioned to maintain 180‑degree scanning of pool/zone at all times.
• Be familiar with the entire aquatic environment and on each shift make sure all emergency equipment is available and ready for use. Ensure that aquatic environment is free of obstructions and safe for participant use.
• Perform chemical checks when not guarding, as required, and take appropriate action.
• Staff must be at least 18 years of age to enter the pump room, and must be adequately trained to perform chemical related duties.
• Enforce all pool rules with all patrons in a fair, polite, and consistent manner.
• Responsible for maintaining all relative certifications.
• Promote and participate in YMCA fundraising efforts to include Annual Support and United Way Campaigns.
• Follow mandated abuse reporting requirements.
• Act as a leader in emergency situations. Report any accidents or incidents according to Emergency Communication Action Plan.
• Ensure all members, guests, and program participants are in a safe environment and actively follow center Emergency Operations Plan (EOP).
• Attend staff meetings and trainings as scheduled.
• Follow department Association Standards.
• Carry out other related duties as deemed necessary by the Aquatics Department and center operations to ensure an excellent member experience.

• Ability to respond effectively to inquiries or complaints.
• Ability to pass lifeguard water test and meet requirements of ongoing drills.
• Must be able to remain alert.
• Must be able to sit or stand for extended periods.
• Ability to recognize visual and verbal distress signs/actions from…