Head Lifeguard Outdoor (Seasonal)

Job Type Temporary Description Make a Splash This Summer - Be the Go-To on the Pool Deck Looking for a summer job that combines leadership, responsibility, and time outside? As a Head Lifeguard with the Summit Area YMCA, you'll take on a key leadership role at one of our community pools, supporting staff, overseeing daily safety operations, and providing on-site leadership during assigned shifts. This role is ideal for experienced lifeguards who are confident leaders, strong communicators, and ready to take ownership of pool operations while still enjoying the energy and fun of the summer season. The Summit Area YMCA operates two seasonal outdoor pool facilities: Berkeley Heights Community Pool at the YMCA - 59 Locust Ave, Berkeley Heights, NJ Springfield Community Pool - 44 Morrison Road, Springfield, NJ 07081 We are hiring Head Lifeguards for both locations. Candidates who are able to work at both pools are strongly encouraged to apply. This position is seasonal with an opportunity to work up to 40 hours each week. The pay range for this role is $17.95/hour -$21.00, but is based on experience. The active Outdoor Pool season runs from Late May - Early September with pre-season work and training early/ mid May. The Head Lifeguard is a senior, working member of the Lifeguard team who provides consistent on-deck oversight during assigned shifts. Head Lifeguards help ensure all safety standards and aquatic procedures are followed, support and guide lifeguard staff, and assist with the smooth flow of daily pool operations. In this role, Head Lifeguards help coordinate lifeguard rotations and breaks, maintain appropriate coverage at all times, and serve as a key point of direction during emergency situations. Head Lifeguards model professionalism, attentiveness, and sound judgment while maintaining a safe, positive environment for members and guests. Essential Functions: As a Leader on the Lifeguard Team, ensures that all Lifeguarding staff are following the Summit Area Aquatic guidelines in such activities as: Proper positioning, Scanning, Proper dress code and equipment, and Scheduling shifts and breaks Maintains constant surveillance of the water, deck and pool areas at all times. Actively scans the pool to achieve a 10 x 10 reaction time and practice preventative lifeguarding. Knows, understands, and consistently applies safety rules, policies and guidelines for the pool and aquatic area. Maintains a professional attitude and appearance, wearing the proper uniform/equipment for each shift. Gives 100% attention to the patrons and operation of the pool area. Is alert, vigilant and conscientious. Performs light housekeeping of aquatics facility as needed (cleaning pool, moving of deck equipment, etc.) Maintains current certifications (Lifeguard, CPR-PR, First-Aid) Knows/reviews all emergency procedures and responds to emergency situations immediately in accordance with Y policies and procedures. Completes related reports as required. Stays in good physical condition to properly perform necessary skills as a lifeguard Weekly completes 500 yard swim (20 laps) Be aware of all Aquatic Department Policies and Procedures including Emergency procedures. Maintains the Pool Reading book while on duty, taking the readings every 2 hours. Maintains First Aid kits and fanny packs and restocks if necessary. Assists with scheduling and facilitation of the lifeguard rotation. Completes necessary paperwork correctly, i.e. opening and closing procedure reports, accident reports, and supervisor shift report. May assist in organizing and attends all in-service trainings and staff meetings. Responsible for assisting other staff in finding substitutes (and for finding appropriate coverage for self when needed). Ensure that all children under the age of 15 are water-tested and wrist-banded. As an Ambassador for the Y, communicates to members, volunteers, and the general public that the Y is the nation's leading non-profit committed to strengthening the community through Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility. At the Summit Area YMCA, we are committed to equal opportunity employment regardless of gender, age, disability, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or religious affiliation. Our main purpose is to strengthen community. Every day, we work side-by-side with our neighbors to make sure that everyone can reach their full potential and we strive to live our cause with purpose every day. No matter who you are or where you're from, we believe that we're stronger when we come together. Requirements3 - 5 years' experience lifeguarding is required Prior supervisory experience is preferred. Current certificate in American Red Cross or YMCA Lifeguarding Current Certification in Professional Rescuer CPR/AED and First Aid. About the Summit Area YMCA: We were founded as the Young Men's Christian Association in 1886, but today, we are The Y. Part of a world-class organization, we are one of the area's leading nonprofits, that values, and is made stronger by, its diverse people. The Summit Area YMCA is committed to strengthening community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose, and each other. Working locally, we focus on empowering young people, improving health and well-being, and inspiring action in and across communities. By bringing together people from different backgrounds, perspectives, and generations, we ensure that we all have access to the opportunities, relationships, and resources necessary to learn, grow and thrive. Salary Description $17.95 - $21.00

Created: 2026-03-10