CLASS CHARACTERISTICS
This is a lead lifeguard position within the Recreation Department. The Head Lifeguard provides on shift leadership by managing lifeguard rotations and breaks and serving as the first level of staff support and escalation during daily operations. This position is more advanced than Lifeguard due to its responsibility for overseeing shift operations. It is more limited in scope than the Recreation Program Assistant position, which includes responsibility for planning and leading lifeguard trainings and in service sessions, supporting staff scheduling, and providing higher level operational oversight related to aquatic safety.
EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL JOB FUNCTIONS (Illustrative Only)
Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind work assignments as necessary.
•Serves as the on-duty shift lead and primary point of contact for lifeguard staff during assigned hours
•Oversees daily deck operations and ensures established safety procedures are consistently followed
•Manages lifeguard rotations and required breaks in accordance with established procedures
•Confirms pool readiness at the start of each shift, including staff coverage, uniforms, and placement of safety equipment
•Provides direction and support to lifeguards during incidents and emergency situations
•Assists with coordinating emergency response efforts and implementation of emergency action plans (EAPs) until relieved by supervisory staff
•Reviews incident and accident reports for completeness and accuracy
•Monitors lifeguard performance during shifts and provides real time coaching, guidance, and corrective feedback
• Supports onboarding and skill development of new lifeguards while on shift
• Addresses routine patron concerns and escalates issues as appropriate
• Communicates operational concerns, staffing issues, or safety needs to supervisory staff
• Completes shift checklists and required documentation
• Performs lifeguard duties as needed
• Attends required in service training and staff meetings
• Performs other related duties as assigned
QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
• Principles and practices of aquatic safety, rescue techniques, and emergency response.
• Emergency Action Plans and incident response procedures.
• Use and care of lifesaving and safety equipment.
• Customer service principles and public interaction techniques.
• Applicable laws, policies, and regulations related to aquatic facility operations.
Ability to:
• Lead lifeguard staff during assigned shifts.
• Provide instruction, guidance, and feedback to lifeguard staff.
• Make real time decisions related to staffing, safety, and daily operations.
• Communicate clearly and effectively with staff, patrons, and supervisors.
• Enforce rules and policies consistently and professionally.
• Complete accurate reports and documentation.
• Remain calm and exercise sound judgment in stressful or emergency situations.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships.