Aquatics Lifeguard

Salary: $15.00 - $18.00 Hourly
Location : Clive Aquatic Center, IA
Job Type: Seasonal
Job Number: 00354
Department: Leisure Services
Division: Aquatics
Opening Date: 12/16/2025
Closing Date: 4/15/2026 5:00 PM Central
JOB SUMMARY
Under the direct supervision of the Recreation Coordinator or Aquatic Facilities Manager, performs a wide variety of duties necessary to ensure the safety of the aquatic center patrons. Responsibilities include scanning assigned areas of coverage, rotating with other guards, completing assigned cleaning tasks, working required shifts, supervising young children, teens, and adult patrons, enforcing facility rules and policies, and communicating effectively with patrons.

JOB FUNCTIONS

Examples of Essential Job Functions

• Ensure the safety of all facility patrons and program participants through alertness and firm, yet courteous and consistent enforcement of pool rules.
• Be prepared at all times to rescue, resuscitate, and administer first aid to any patron or staff at the facility.
• Be familiar with the locations and proper use of all safety equipment, emergency action plans, and related procedures.
• Know and enforce all pool rules and regulations using common sense, consistency, and sound judgment; understand the facility's procedures for rule infractions and discipline.
• Know lifeguard procedures, policies, and the responsibilities associated with each guarding position.
• Wear the designated staff uniform while on duty, including a whistle, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
• Maintain regular attendance and be available to work evenings, weekends, and aquatic events or rentals as needed.
• Be exceptionally watchful of swimmers under, on, and around the surface of the water.
• Maintain continuous surveillance of the assigned area.
• Keep eyes on the pool while communicating with patrons.
• Sit or stand upright in an alert and professional manner when at the lifeguard station.
• Keep communication signals clear and audible.
• Be on duty and prepared to work at the designated shift start time.
• Change stations properly, communicating any special situations or concerns.
• Adhere to and enforce all facility rules and policies.

Other Job Functions

• Attend required orientation and training meetings.
• Perform other duties as apparent or assigned.

EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS AND QUALIFICATIONS

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Ability to think logically and follow written, verbal, or diagrammatic instructions using several abstract or concrete variables.
• Ability to follow instructions and directives accurately.
• Knowledge of the facility and the safety procedures used.
• Knowledge of general lifeguard practices.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with superiors, co-workers, and the public.
• Ability to tactfully manage a variety of social and customer service situations.
• Ability to perform all job duties safely and in accordance with applicable rules, guidelines, policies, and training.

EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE
Qualifications

• Must be at least 15 years of age
• Must hold current Lifeguard, CPR, and First Aid certifications.
• Must have, and be able to demonstrate, knowledge of water safety and standard lifeguard practices.
• Must be in good physical condition; possess strong verbal communication skills; demonstrate initiative, dependability, enthusiasm; and have a desire to serve the public.

Education Required

• Enrollment in high school or higher education.
• Must hold current Lifeguard, CPR, and First Aid certifications.

Experience Preferred

• Experience working in recreation facilities or programs.

PHYSICAL AND ENVIROMENTAL CHARACTERISTICS

Required Physical Activities
Sitting, standing, kneeling, reaching, climbing, walking, finger dexterity, talking, watching, hearing, and repetitive motions.

Physical Characteristics of the Job
Moderate Physical Demand: Work that involves lifting up to 50 pounds occasionally and up to 25 pounds on a frequent basis.

Environmental Characteristics
Work is performed both indoors and outdoors, with seasonal exposure to heat and cold. The position may involve exposure to unpleasant social situations, a fast-paced work environment, and irregular work hours.

EQUIPMENT AND MATERIALS USED
Thermometers; personal computer; general office equipment; printer; computer network; SDS Documentation, personnel policies; calculator; cash register; telephone; radio; PA system; rescue tubes; backboards; vacuum; power-washer; cleaning supplies; and lockers.

The City of Clive retains the authority to change the job duties included in this job description at any time. The list of duties is not exhaustive, and various requirements are subject to possible modification as a reasonable accommodation for a qualified individual.