Ridgewood YMCA 

Junior Lifeguard Job Description

 

JOB TITLE: Junior Lifeguard 
BRANCH: Oak Street
LOCATION: Darlington Lake (Mahwah)
REPORTS TO: VP of Aquatics
DURATION: Seasonal (Summer Only)
SALARY: $16.00 hourly

OUR CULTURE: 

At the Ridgewood Y, our mission and core values come to life through our culture. Guided by our four pillars—caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility—we live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. As a nonprofit charitable organization, we have been committed to serving youth, adults, and families across Northern New Jersey and the Camp Bernie area since 1902, as part of the worldwide YMCA movement. Through programs focused on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, we create meaningful connections that build spirit, mind, and body for all. Our team is dependable, hardworking, and always ready to roll up our sleeves to get the job done. We believe in the power of diversity, collaboration, and showing up for one another—because together, we are stronger. If you’re looking to make a difference and be part of a mission-driven team, the Ridgewood Y is the place for you! The Ridgewood YMCA is an equal opportunity employer. We believe our strength lies in our diversity and are committed to being an inclusive organization. We welcome applicants from any and all walks of life.

BENEFITS:

  • Complimentary individual membership to the Ridgewood YMCA, or discounted family membership. Membership includes access to pools, fitness centers, and group fitness classes.
  • 25% discount on programming and events
  • Flexible work schedule
  • Retirement Savings & 403(b) Smart Account after eligibility requirements are met

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Junior Lifeguard supports the safety, organization, and daily operation of Darlington Lake. Although certified, a 15-year-old employee may not perform lifeguard duties in natural-water environments under federal labor law. This position provides supervised, non-guarding assistance that enhances waterfront readiness and guest safety. Junior Lifeguards do not sit in lifeguard chairs, watch water, conduct scanning, supervise patrons in the water, or serve as primary responders. They may participate in shallow-water search operations as part of the facility’s Emergency Action Plan under the supervision of a certified lifeguard age 16+ or a waterfront supervisor. This position prepares staff to transition into full lake lifeguard responsibilities upon turning 16.

JOB FUNCTION:

  • Patron Support & Education: Greet patrons entering the waterfront; Explain swimming rules, beach expectations, and safety procedures; Direct patrons to designated swim areas, deep-water test lines, play areas, and amenities; Assist with crowd flow at peak times; Model appropriate behavior and reinforce lake safety standards.
  • Equipment & Facility Operations: Set up, clean, and organize guard equipment before and after shifts; Assist with preparing rescue gear, checking supplies, organizing lost-and-found, and updating signage; Hand out, fit, and collect Coast Guard–approved life jackets; Assist with beach raking, cone placement, rope-line adjustments (with supervision); Support lifeguard rotations by bringing equipment, relieving deck congestion, or distributing materials.
  • Emergency Response – Support Role Only: Under the direct supervision of a certified lifeguard age 16+ or a supervisor, Junior Lifeguards may:
    • Shallow-Water Missing Person Search (Allowed); Participate in line searches in waist-to-chest–deep water only; Maintain feet on the bottom at all times; Follow direction from the search leader; Report immediately if anything is seen, heard, or felt; Provide communication, equipment, or help secure perimeter zones.
    • Other EAP Support – Retrieve equipment (AED, backboard, first aid supplies); Clear patrons from swim or beach areas; Direct bystanders to designated assembly locations; Provide logistical support to senior staff; Assist with documentation or running messages.

Emergency Response Restrictions (Not Allowed) Junior Lifeguards may not: Perform rescues; Provide in-water patron supervision; Conduct deep-water searches; Serve as the primary responder in any emergency

  • Administrative & Operational Tasks: Attend required training, in-services, and pre-season meetings; Assist with lost child protocols; Support swim-test logistics (line management, instructions, equipment)—not supervision; Maintain clean, organized work areas; Complete assigned daily checklists.

• Provide excellent guest services by answering questions and ensuring guest comfort

• Help with heavy lifting related to supplies or equipment as needed

• Support facility Emergency Action Plans as permitted.

• Collaborate with team members to ensure smooth operation of the aquatic facility

  • Preform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Lift, carry, or move up to 30 lbs
  • Valid American Red Cross Lifeguarding with CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer and First Aid, Bloodborne Pathogens, and Waterfront certification. Training may be provided for individuals able to successfully pass the American Red Cross Waterfront Swim Test.
  • Ability to swim confidently
  • Stand and walk for prolonged periods of time
  • Strong guest service skills with a friendly attitude
  • Participate in drills and shallow-water search activities
  • Must be able to work outdoors in various weather conditions
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