A Y lifeguard monitors the safety of members and visitors within the pool areas while upholding the Y's core values. 

Starting at $14.50/hr

PAID Lifeguard Training
$150 Hiring Bonus*

Become a Lifeguard AND Swim Lesson Instructor, earn $15/hr!
Let us know in your application/interview if you are interested in both positions.
No prior experience required.

Other YMCA employment benefits: 

• Ongoing training and recertification  
• Free YMCA membership to all YMCA centers
• Flexible schedules
• Opportunities for career advancement

*Sign On Bonus is for new associates and is paid in two increments after the first paycheck.

OUR CULTURE: 

The YMCA of Greater Kansas City’s mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. It’s who we are, who we aspire to be and how we show up every day. We are cause-driven. We don’t just show up, we show up with purpose. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.

• Maintains active surveillance of the pool area.
• Knows and reviews all emergency procedures and responds to emergency situations immediately in accordance with YMCA policies, procedures; completes related reports as required.
• Know how to prevent and handle emergencies in entry-level shallow water of six feet or less
• Maintains effective and positive relationships with the members, participants, and other staff.
• Knows, understands, and consistently applies safety rules, policies, and guidelines for the pool and aquatic area.
• Remains calm and objective when under pressure or when challenged by others.
• Maintains accurate records as required by the YMCA and/or the state health department code.
• Performs equipment checks and ensures appropriate equipment is available as needed.
• Check the pool for hazardous conditions when arriving.
• Performs chemical testing when not guarding, as required, and takes appropriate action.
• Attends all staff meetings and in-service training.
• Responsible for appropriate child-adult ratios and group sizes.
• Assists in maintaining cleanliness of deck and locker rooms.
• Responsible for opening and closing procedures and securing doors.
• Report to duty 10 minutes before shift and secure a substitute if necessary and with proper notification.
• Knows how to prevent and handle emergencies at all water depths of the facility.

• Must be at least 16 years of age.
• Current CPR, First Aid, and Emergency Oxygen certification from National Organization (American Red Cross preferred)
• Current Lifeguard or Shallow Water Certification from a National Organization (American Red Cross preferred) 
• Able to pass the Lifeguard Pre-requisites consisting of the following:
  • 300 Yard Swim  (100 Yard Swim for Shallow Water)
    Continuous swim using the front crawl, breaststroke, or a combination of both.
  • Tread Water
    Must tread water for two minutes without support and without stopping. 
  • Timed Event (Lifeguard)
    Must be completed in 1 minute and 40 seconds. Swim 20 yards, surface dive to a depth of 7 to 10 feet to retrieve a 10-pound object. Return to the surface and swim 20 yards on the back to return to the starting point with both hands holding the object and keeping the face at or near the surface. Exit the water without using a ladder or steps.
  • Timed Event (Shallow Water Lifeguard)
    Must be completed in 50 seconds.  Swim 20 yards, submerge to a depth of 4 to 5 feet to retrieve a 10-pound object.  Return to the surface and walk or swim 20 yards on the back to return to the starting point with both hands holding the object and exit the water without using a ladder or steps.