Head Lifeguard

Embark on a Journey of Impactful Adventure

The Head Lifeguard is responsible for the guarding and safety of members and program participants within all aquatic facilities.  This role will be responsible for carrying out and enforcing aquatic policies and procedures in compliance with statues as described by the State of Pennsylvania, the YMCA of the USA, the YMCA of Greater Brandywine, lifeguard licensing agency Ellis and Associates, and YMCA insurance representative. Head Lifeguards will also manage aquatic facility operations including, but not limited to: supporting the lifeguard team, maintaining the facility, and planning and conducting inservice training.

Who Are We?

The YMCA of Greater Brandywine (YGBW) was named a 2025 Top Workplace by The Philadelphia Inquirer for a second consecutive year. An association of nine YMCAs serving Chester County, the YMCA of Greater Brandywine is a non-profit organization dedicated to nurturing the potential of every child, promoting healthy living, and fostering social responsibility through life-changing programs for all.  

Perks & Benefits

• Free family YMCA membership, including outdoor pools
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance, along with paid holidays and plentiful PTO for full-time employees
• Babysitting while you work (up to 4 hours per day)
• Generous program discounts on childcare, camp, youth sports, swimming lessons and more!
• 12% employer contribution to retirement savings upon reaching eligibility and optional 403B retirement savings plan upon hire.
• Employee Assistance Program
• Continuing education reimbursement, tuition discounts with Chestnut Hill College and Immaculata University
• Career development and paid training
• Unlimited referral bonus beginning at $300.00 

What You’ll Do

• Maintains constant surveillance of the pool area.
• Knows/reviews all emergency procedures and responds to emergency situations immediately in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures. Completes related reports as required.
• Maintains effective relationships with the members, participants and other staff.
• Knows, understands, and consistently applies safety rules, policies and guidelines for the pool and aquatic area.
• 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.
• Checks the pool for hazardous conditions when arriving and closing.
• Performs chemical testing at appropriate times of the day, as required, and takes appropriate action.
• Attends all staff meetings and training as required.
• Acts as a liaison for lifeguard staff to aquatic leadership 
• With Aquatic Leadership support conduct trainings and emergency drills including Vigilant Awareness Training 
• Report any safety, staffing or facility related issues to supervisor. 
• Ensure that lifeguard team members follow established procedures consistent with the   training they receive.
• Ability to identify hazards and unsafe practices and to make suitable recommendations for minimizing or eliminating those hazards and follow all emergency action plans. 
• Ensure swim test policy procedures are being followed 
• Speak professionally with uncooperative/concerned members. 
• Educate members and staff about facility rules and regulations. 
• Ensure compliance with all YGBW policies and standard operating procedures. 
• Perform other related duties as assigned. 

What You'll Need

• Must be 17 or older 
• Current lifeguarding certification from Ellis & Associates 
• Current CPR for the Professional Rescuer, First Aid, Oxygen Administration, AED, and Blood borne Pathogens
• Complete required monthly in-service hours of Ellis & Associates in-service training and scanning skills, 
• Head Guards must be able to lead, motivate others, earn respect and demonstrate maturity in relating to people of all ages and abilities
• Obtain and maintain all additional new hire certifications and trainings within 90 days of hire

Work Conditions and Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Physically perform all skills required of a lifeguard. Hear noises and distress signals in the aquatic environment, including in the water and anywhere around the zone of responsibility. Remain alert with no lapses of consciousness. See and observe all sections of an assigned zone or area of responsibility.

Why You Need To Apply

Not meeting every single requirement? That’s perfectly okay! Research shows that women and marginalized groups are often hesitant to apply for jobs unless they meet all the qualifications. If you’re excited about this role, don’t let a few mismatches in your experience hold you back. We want to see your application! You could be exactly what we’re looking for!