Lifeguard - Ellicott City (Dancel)

Overwhelmingly, people who decide they want to be a part of the Y in Central Maryland tell us they do so because it reflects their values and a conscious decision, they’ve made about how they choose to live their lives. The happiest and most fulfilled Y associates are those who are motivated to help others and who want to be a part of something larger than themselves. If this speaks to your heart, then we invite you to join our team. Be a part of a charitable, mission-driven organization that works for individual and community well-being for all, for a better us.

 
At the Y in Central Maryland, we offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth. Enjoy flexible schedules, competitive pay, and generous paid time off, alongside medical, dental and vision benefits, as well as dependent care FSA. We offer a generous employer contribution to the Y retirement fund, and opportunities for career advancement. Our commitment to fostering a positive work environment means you'll have access to training and development programs that align with our mission to empower individuals and strengthen communities. Join us and bring your passion to a fulfilling career where you can truly make a difference! 

Now Hiring for Fall 2026 Opportunities

Under the supervision of the Swim Director or other assigned associate, Lifeguard is responsible for the safety, cleanliness, and operation of the swimming pool during operating hours. The primary function of the Lifeguard will be to safeguard the health and safety of members, class participants, and guests; and enforce guidelines and safety policies. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Monitor swimmers and enforce pool rules to ensure a safe environment for all members, guests, and class participants.

• Respond quickly and appropriately to all center emergencies.

• Conduct pool chemical checks and make basic adjustments according to safety standards and health codes.

• Maintain cleanliness and safety of the pool deck and equipment; report any issues or repairs needed.

• Set up and store aquatic equipment before and after lessons or events.

• Engage positively with members and participants when not actively guarding.

• Attend all required in-service training and staff meetings.

• Promote an inclusive, respectful, and friendly environment for people of all ages and backgrounds.

• Support YMCA programs and communicate the organization’s mission to members and families.

• Perform other related duties as assigned.

YMCA COMPETENCIES (Leader):

Mission Advancement : Models and teaches the Ys values. Ensures a high level of service with a commitment to changing lives. Provides volunteers with orientation, training, development, and recognition. Cultivates relationships to support fund-raising.

Collaboration : Champions inclusion activities, strategies, and initiatives. Build relationships to create small communities. Empathetically listens and communicates for understanding when negotiating and dealing with conflict. Effectively tailors communications to the appropriate audience. Provides staff with feedback, coaching, guidance and support.

Operational Effectiveness : Provides others with frameworks for making decisions. Conducts prototypes to support the launching of programs and activities. Develops plans and manages best practices through engagement of the team. Effectively creates and manages budgets.

Holds staff accountable for high-quality results using a formal process to measure progress.

Personal Growth : Shares new insights. Facilitates change; models adaptability and an awareness of the impact of change. Utilizes non-threatening methods to address sensitive issues and inappropriate behavior or performance. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must meet qualifications established by the Y in Central Maryland.

• Current Lifeguard certification.

• Current CPR/AED/Oxygen/First Aid certification (O2 within 30 days of hire).

• Successful completion of the Y in Central Maryland swim test.

• Flexible availability, including days, evenings, and weekends.

• Completion of new hire training, including Child Abuse Prevention, prior to first scheduled shift.

• Good character, professional demeanor, and the ability to follow directions, accept supervision, and communicate clearly.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

1. Will be required to walk, stand, kneel, stoop, push, and lift up to 50 pounds.

2. While performing duties the employee may occasionally work in the outside weather conditions, and is exposed to wet, cold and /or humid conditions.

3. Must be physically able to work in a hot and humid environment with moderate physical exercise.

4. Continuous operations requiring attention to detail and multi-tasking.

5. Will be exposed to cleaning supplies.

6. Must be able to stand or sit for long periods of time.

7. Must be physically able to successfully complete required certifications.

8. Pool safety and instructional equipment, some computer skills required  

An offer of employment is contingent upon receipt of satisfactory results to meet minimum requirements for the position. They may include a background check, drug test, driver’s license record, CPS, and/or Criminal Background check.

Additional driver’s license check, CPS, Criminal Background check, alcohol and/or drug testing may be required to be processed in the future in order to meet and maintain the minimum requirements of this position. 

All Y associates agree to abide by The Code of Conduct with Youth that sets clear expectations for associates and volunteers to ensure a safe and respectful environment for young people. It emphasizes treating youth with respect and fairness, avoiding inappropriate physical or verbal interactions, and adhering to established standards of affection. The policy strictly prohibits any form of abuse, bullying, or harassment and mandates the reporting of suspected mistreatment. Additionally, associates and volunteers must complete training on child abuse prevention and comply with legal reporting requirements to safeguard youth.