Aquatics Assistant

City of Piedmont is a charter city of approximately 11,000 residents located in the beautiful Oakland Hills, overlooking the San Francisco Bay. The city, which is virtually built out, consists of established residences on quiet tree‑lined streets. Within Piedmont's 1.8 square‑mile area there are five city parks and numerous landscaped areas which offer wooded paths, tennis courts, children’s playgrounds and picnic facilities. The city will be opening a new all‑electric Community Pool featuring a state‑of‑the‑art competition pool, activity pool and bathhouse facility.

DEFINITION

Aquatics Assistants provide support to almost all other aquatic staff in and around the pool. They may assist Swim Instructors during lessons, help Lifeguards set up the pool for recreation swim, act as host for swim parties, engage with campers during Summer Splash Camp, sell ice cream at the concession window, and assist the Coordinator and Supervisor with administrative duties. They are involved in almost every aspect of pool operations, which gives them a great opportunity to learn about the other aquatics jobs.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

Under the direction of the Recreation Supervisor and Recreation Coordinator for Aquatics, Aquatics Assistants are distinguished by their certifications and ability to be adaptable. Aquatic Assistants must:

• Be at least 14 years old
• Be in at least 9th grade and possess a work permit required if under 18
• Have extensive swim experience, such as participation in swim teams or clubs, or experience helping or volunteering in a recreational program

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES (Illustrative Only)*

• Assist with swim lessons by helping participants practice skills while the Instructor demonstrates and assists other participants
• Help set up and clean up equipment before and after swim lessons
• Help conduct skills checks for students during lessons
• Assist in communication and running errands for other aquatic staff
• Assist with removing and installing lane lines and pool covers
• Set up and clean up the poolside room for parties
• Help families maintain their schedule during swim parties
• Prepare party supply kits and help maintain party supply inventory
• Set up and organize camper activities for Splash Camp
• Escort Splash Campers to various locations around the pool
• Help Office Attendants with checking in patrons during busy shifts
• Assist with concession sales
• Pick up or deliver items between the pool and the Recreation Department
• Assist aquatics staff by making copies, scanning documents or printing rosters
• Perform administrative tasks as requested
• Help perform cleaning duties, along with other aquatic staff
• Assist with special aquatic events, such as swim meets, safety demonstrations, and community outreach
• Monitor pool deck and water conditions, reporting any safety or maintenance concerns to appropriate staff promptly
• Report concerns to Head Lifeguard, Head Instructor, Coordinator or Supervisor immediately so that concerns may be immediately resolved when possible
• Complete incident reports before the end of each shift

Management reserves the rights to add, modify, change or rescind work assignments and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.

QUALIFICATIONS

Ability to:

• Learn and follow pool rules, safety standards and pool operations
• Use good judgment, knowing when to ask for help for an issue that could turn into a bigger problem
• Maintain a respectful and professional relationship with all people encountered at work
• Communicate effectively and work cooperatively with Recreation department personnel, coworkers, volunteers, participants, patrons and the general public
• Follow instructions, respond to requests and follow up with supervisor as needed
• Understand and use a wide variety of resources and information, such as regulations, accident/incident reports, schedules, time sheets, patron complaints, correspondence and general operating manuals
• Act quickly, calmly and appropriately in emergency situations by participating and assisting Lifeguards in the Emergency Action Plan
• Submit payroll and time‑off requests on time

REQUIREMENTS

Certifications

• First Aid/CPR with AED through American Red Cross or nationally recognized agency
• American Red Cross Basic Water Rescue (offered in‑house) within 3 months of hire

Physical and Mental Demands

• Vision (which may be corrected) and hearing must be within normal range to be able to see and hear participants who may be in life and/or health and safety endangering situations
• Ability to communicate clearly with aquatic patrons, students or parents in‑person or by phone
• Ability to use a computer, phone system, copier, and other standard office equipment
• Capable of sitting or standing for extended periods; occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds
• Able to respond quickly and appropriately during emergencies or urgent situations

Environmental Elements

• Ability to work outdoors, including participation in required aquatic staff in‑service in and out of the water for extended periods, exposed to sun, water, and varying weather conditions
• Ability to dress in Aquatics Assistant uniform or dress code throughout scheduled shifts
• Ability to work indoors in an office setting with frequent transitions to the pool deck area
• Exposure to noise, humidity, and chlorine‑related odors
• Must be comfortable working in a shared space with high public interaction
• Ability to work under moderately safe and comfortable conditions where exposure to environmental or job‑related factors may cause discomfort and where there is a risk of temperature variations or extremes, odors, toxic or caustic chemicals, wetness, noise, violence, disease, blood or bodily fluids while rendering first aid and CPR

Successful candidates must pass a Department of Justice live fingerprint scan, background reference checks, and a Tuberculosis screening prior to start of employment.