Head Lifeguard

Job Description

Job Posting Title: Seasonal Head Lifeguard

Job Description

Job Opportunity: Seasonal Aquatic Center / Head Lifeguard

City of Independence, Iowa | Parks and Recreation Department

We are seeking a dedicated, safety‑minded, and team‑oriented individual to join our Aquatics Division as a Seasonal Head Lifeguard . This leadership role is essential to maintaining a safe, positive, and well‑run aquatic environment for community members of all ages. If you enjoy working outdoors, mentoring staff, and helping create a safe and enjoyable experience for patrons, this is an excellent opportunity to take on a key supervisory position.

Position Overview

• Department: Parks and Recreation
• Reports To: Seasonal Head Lifeguard
• Status: Seasonal (May through late August), Temporary (no more than 120 working days)
• FLSA Status: Exempt

The Role

This seasonal role supports the Assistant Pool Manager and the Pool Manager in daily facility operations and takes full responsibility when the Assistant Pool Manager and/or Pool Manager is away. You’ll supervise lifeguards, assist with scheduling, oversee safety procedures, and help ensure the pool runs smoothly throughout the summer.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Ensure Patron Safety: Maintain vigilant surveillance of the pool area and uphold a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for all patrons.
• Emergency Response: Enforce safety rules and respond promptly and professionally to emergencies, rescues, and first‑aid situations.
• Adaptive Enforcement: Use sound judgment to prevent unsafe behaviors. Address disciplinary issues with firmness, tact, and professionalism.
• Facility Maintenance: Assist in opening and securing the facility, cleaning bathhouses and changing rooms, and maintaining program equipment.
• Leadership & Communication: Support and guide lifeguard staff, assist with training, help coordinate rotations, and communicate effectively with management and patrons. Assist with monitoring attendance, reporting incidents, and supporting front‑desk or program needs as assigned. Oversee cash handling, daily reports, and nightly deposits.

Qualifications & Requirements

We require our head lifeguards to possess specific certifications and physical capabilities to perform the essential functions of the job safely.

• Certifications: You must hold a current Red Cross Lifeguard Certification, as well as CPR and First Aid Certifications. Water Safety Instructor (WSI) certification is preferred for assisting with instructional programs.
• Age & Experience: We value experience working with children and the ability to deal with persons of all ages and abilities in a positive manner. Prior lifeguard experience is preferred. Strong communicaton, leadership, and problem-solving skills are required.
• Knowledge: You should be knowledgeable of water safety practices, equipment usage, and Iowa Department of Public Health swimming pool codes.
• Physical Demands: This position requires high levels of physical fitness. You must be able to lift up to 50 lbs (such as pool vacuums or chairs) and perform rescue maneuvers involving swimming and lifting.
• Availability: Hours will vary and will include evenings, weekends, and holidays throughout the season.

Work Environment

This position operates primarily outdoors. You will be exposed to varying weather conditions, including sun, heat, and humidity, as well as pool chemicals and noise from equipment and patrons.