Lifeguard/Instructor

Located on the traditional, ancestral and unceded lands of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Peoples, Vancouver has a commitment to becoming a City of Reconciliation. Vancouver consistently ranks as one of the world’s most liveable and environmentally sustainable cities. Named among Canada's Top 100 Employers, BC's Top Employers, and Canada's Greenest Employers, the City of Vancouver seeks colleagues who can help shape and embody our core commitments to sustainability, reconciliation, equity and outstanding quality of life for all residents.

Consider joining our committed team of staff and being part of an innovative, inclusive and rewarding workplace.

Main Purpose and Function
This is customer service work, providing swimming instruction, lifeguarding, and custodial work at a multi-purpose aquatic facility on an assigned shift. This involves instructing and evaluating children and adults of all levels and abilities of swimming, including learn-to-swim programs or equivalent classes. The Lifeguard/Instructor ensures the safety of facility users, renders first aid as required, and performs routine pool custodial work. The work is performed under general supervision and is evaluated by a supervisor in terms of effectiveness of instruction and lifeguarding with conformance to established standards and policy, and by the public in terms of service rendered.

Specific Duties/Responsibilities

• Swim instruction, pool supervision, maintenance and emergency medical care.
• Facilitating safe community recreation for everyone through integration, inclusion, and participation in aquatic recreation.
• Providing every member and guest with support and excellence in customer service.
• Teaching and evaluating all age groups and all levels of swimming, including specialized areas of instruction.
• Supervision of all visitors, administration of first aid.
• Performing routine facility maintenance, and other related duties as required.

Qualification Requirements
Education and Experience:

• Completion of twelfth grade supplemented by training courses related to the work and some experience as a lifeguard and swim instructor, or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
• National Lifeguard Pool Option Certificate.
• Standard First Aid or equivalent (as deemed by the City of Vancouver).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Sound knowledge of both theory and practice of swimming instruction, lifesaving, lifeguarding, water-based fitness, first aid, and specialized instruction for people with disabilities.
• Sound knowledge of regulations, basic philosophies, objectives and practices of aquatic operations/programs.
• Sound knowledge of safety regulations applicable to the work area, emergency procedures and the appropriate and timely use of emergency equipment.
• Working knowledge of pool operations including pool water chemistry, water filtration, chlorination and heating.
• Ability to demonstrate sound aquatic skills as a Lifeguard and Swim Instructor; instructing and guarding to all standards set by relevant authorities.
• Ability to provide high level of customer service.
• Ability to make sound judgement and act effectively in stressful situations.
• Ability to comprehend and carry out both written and oral instructions; ability to speak, write, listen, and secure information effectively in a variety of settings.
• Ability to operate office equipment, maintain records, and prepare reports.
• Ability to instruct all age groups and swim classes at various competency levels.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective and courteous working relations with staff, public and user groups.
• Ability to work varied hours, including evening and weekend shifts.

A Police Record Check is a requirement of this position. A clearance requires the absence of any criminal charges or convictions related to this position.

Business Unit/Department: Board of Parks & Recreation (1400)

Affiliation: CUPE 15 Parks

Position Start Date: May 2025

Number of Positions: 2

Salary Information: Pay Grade GR-013a: $27.39 to $32.20 per hour

Application Close: April 20, 2025

At the City of Vancouver, we are committed to recruiting a diverse workforce that represents the community we so proudly serve. Indigenous peoples, people of colour, 2SLGBTQ+ persons including all genders and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Accommodations will be provided upon request during the selection process.