Ocean Lifeguard

Ocean Rescue Lifeguard

Promotional opportunity for current City of Deerfield Beach employees. The purpose of this position is to provide specialized ocean rescue service at assigned public beaches, protect lives and enforce swimming regulations. Responsible for maintaining safe swimming regulation, enforce established regulations, rescuing individuals who are in distress and administering first aid when necessary. This class works independently, under limited supervision, reporting major activities through periodic meetings.

The essential functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this class. Management may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the class as necessary.

• Patrols assigned area of the beach to ensure the safety of swimmers and patrons.
• Supervises participants' activities in and around beach area.
• Responds to all emergency situations.
• Assists or rescues swimmers in distress utilizing appropriate rescue techniques and renders first aid and/or CPR following appropriate medical protocol.
• Enforces all rules, ordinances, and State statutes governing public beaches to prevent accidents and maintain order.
• Assists with organizing and overseeing special events and providing crowd control.
• Enforces health and safety rules and regulations and maintains order in and around beach area.
• Informs beach patrons on unsafe or hazardous swimming conditions.
• Maintains inventory of first aid and stand supplies.
• Participates in physical training and lifesaving skill exercises daily.
• Maintains current certifications and physical fitness requirements.
• Prepares written reports on accidents, incidents, first aid, etc. Completes other reports or records as required.
• Attends meetings as required.
• May operate wave runner, all-terrain vehicles, paddleboard, and other rescue devices.
• May supervise the Junior Lifeguard Program.
• Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Minimum education and experience requirements:

• High School Graduation or GED equivalent.
• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license with an acceptable driving history.
• CPR Certification. First Aide Certification.
• Must pass swimming and rescue skills test.
• Must be enrolled in a First Responder Course by completion of the probationary period.

Preferred qualifications/experience:

• Completion of 40-hour USLA Lifeguard Training Course or must successfully complete training upon initial hire.

Knowledge, skills and abilities:

• Knowledge of local and State water safety rules and regulations; hazardous currents and marine life.
• Knowledge of various techniques of water rescue and safety, including safety equipment.
• Knowledge of pertinent rules, regulations, and City ordinances.
• Skill in lifesaving methods and techniques including the administration of CPR and first aid.
• Ability to react quickly and calmly in emergency situations.
• Ability to make rescues in large, powerful surf conditions without fear or hesitation.
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to handle distressed swimmers and patrons in a professional manner.
• Ability to interact effectively with the public.
• Ability to use small office equipment and computers.
• Ability to use or repair small and medium equipment and machinery.

Physical demands:

• Performs very heavy work that involves constantly lifting, shoveling, and carrying 50 to 75 pounds on a regular and recurring basis and exerting 100 pounds of force on a frequent basis.

Work environment:

• Involves routine and frequent exposure to:
• Bright/dim light; Dusts and pollen.
• Extreme heat and/or cold; Wet or humid conditions.
• Extreme noise levels, Animals/wildlife.
• Vibration; Fumes and/or noxious odors.
• Traffic; Moving machinery.
• Electrical shock; Heights.
• Radiation; Disease/pathogens.
• Toxic/caustic chemicals; Explosives; Violence.
• Other extreme hazards not listed above.

Americans with Disabilities Act Compliance: The City of Deerfield Beach is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA requires the City to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.

It is the responsibility of each employee to comply with established policies, procedures and safe work practices. Each employee must follow safety training and instructions provided by their supervisor. Each employee must also properly wear and maintain all personal protective equipment required for their job. Finally, each employee must immediately report any unsafe work practices or unsafe conditions as well as any on-the-job injury or illnesses. Every manager/supervisor is responsible for enforcing all safety rules and regulations. In addition, they are responsible for ensuring that a safe work environment is maintained, safe work practices are followed, and employees are properly trained.

During emergency conditions, all City employees are automatically considered emergency service workers. City employees are subject to being called to work in the event of a disaster, such as hurricane, or other emergency situations and are expected to perform emergency service duties as assigned.

The City of Deerfield Beach values the service veterans and their family members have given to our country and supports the hiring of returning service members and military spouses.