Instructor - Lifeguard

Job Description

Instructor - Lifeguard (501)

(As-Needed)

Education and Experience

Minimum Requirements:

Education equivalent to completion of the tenth grade; and
No experience required; and
Must be at least 17 years of age at time of application

License & Certification

Possession of the following is required:

A valid American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor certificate; and
A valid American Red Cross Lifeguard certificate; and
In accordance with State of California law, a valid California Work Permit is required at time of appointment for candidates under the age of 18 who have not graduated from high school or been awarded a certificate of proficiency

Distinguishing Characteristics

The Instructor-Lifeguard functions as both a swimming instructor and a lifeguard at a City swimming pool. An incumbent conducts classes at all participant skill levels (beginning through advanced) and supervises the conduct of swimmers in City pools in order to maintain a safe environment. This class is distinguished from the Lifeguard in that the latter has a sole focus on lifeguard responsibilities.

Typical Duties

Each position in this classification may not include all the duties listed below, nor do the examples cover all duties that may be performed. Under general supervision:

Conducts swimming instruction classes at various participant age and skill levels
Administers practical swimming tests to determine participants' skill levels
Maintains class participant attendance, activity, and progress records
Observes swimmers at a City operated swimming pool; warning those who violate pool safety rules, and expelling them, if necessary, for willful disobedience
Maintains a safe but enjoyable poolside atmosphere for participants by continuously monitoring pool facility for potential problems or dangerous situations
Rescues swimmers who are in distress; administers first aid and artificial respiration, if necessary, according to prescribed methods
Cleans, disinfects, and maintains the pool, pool decks, overflow gutter, shower rooms and other pool facility areas
Performs other related duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Considerable knowledge of:

Swimming techniques
Principles and techniques of swimming instruction appropriate for various age groups
Approved lifesaving and safety methods and procedures necessary to ensure public safety in and around a pool facility

Considerable ability to:

Teach to others the theory and application of swimming techniques
Swim skillfully, rescue submerged victims, and safely remove them from pool
Immediately evaluate emergency situations and respond decisively and effectively
Administer first aid and artificial respiration according to prescribed methods
Instruct in the techniques of swimming and lifesaving
Maintain poolside discipline and safety

Ability to:

Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work, including children
Work in a team-based environment and achieve common goals
Communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing
Learn the proper placement of all safety equipment and its proper use
Learn the location and proper use of the emergency telephone numbers list
Become familiar with the basic mechanical operation and maintenance program of the City pools

Supervision Received

Works under the general supervision of a Pool Manager or other supervisor, as assigned.

Supervision Exercised

May supervise volunteers or less experienced Lifeguards; may assist in the training of personnel.

Other Requirements

As a condition of employment, incumbents will be required to be fingerprinted in accordance with State of California law
Must be able to perform all of the essential functions of the job assignment

Approved, May 2003