Lifeguard Lead (Summer 2026)

Role Summary

Reporting to the Recreation and Leisure Leadership Team, the Lifeguard Lead will be responsible for providing direction to the daily operations of Friday Harbour pools and the guarding of the main waterfront area. This includes providing leadership and guidance to the lifeguard team, ensuring the safety of all patrons, and being accountable for the maintenance of the pool and beach area to ensure safety and ease of use.

Responsibilities

• Assist with overseeing the safe and efficient operation of pool and beach operations including waterfront, beach club pool, splash pad, swimming lessons and Aquafit
• Provide direction and lead the start and end of shift briefings, and ensure proper rotations and breaks are being taken by lifeguards
• Work with the leadership team to ensure that associates are trained and clearly understand their role, responsibilities and performance expectations
• Ensure that service standards are met by associates in all areas of the operation
• Coordinate tasks and work with other departments to ensure the department runs efficiently
• Supervise assigned areas to ensure the safety of swimmers
• Ensure that all rules and regulations are adhered to ensuring safety
• Provide first aid treatment as required
• Update the pool log by recording and documenting any incidents, completing water tests and bather counts
• Maintain direct contact with patrons and communicate with them in an effective manner
• Ensure equipment is stored in its proper place, pick up towels and debris, restock towels and straighten chairs
• Conduct facility inspections, complete checklists and advise leader of any concerns found
• Assist guests with questions regarding the resort, activities and general information
• Assist in other areas of the Recreation and Leisure department as needed
• Welcome and acknowledge each guest with a smile, eye contact and a friendly verbal greeting using the guests’ names when possible
• Assist in dealing with incidents, emergencies and customer complaints with efficiency and professionalism
• Communicate daily with the Recreation Leadership team, providing constructive feedback, ideas for improvements, daily operations update etc.
• Compliance with all safety regulations of assigned tasks, and ensure a clean and safe working environment with active participation in the health and safety program
• Adhere to all environmental policies and programs as required
• Other duties as assigned

Requirements

• Current National Lifeguard Service’s certificate (dated 2 years or less)
• Standard First Aid with CPR C certification
• Swim Instructor certification
• Waterfront Guard Certification (NL or Red Cross) an asset
• SmartServe certification an asset
• ORCA, Paddle Canada, or similar certification an asset
• Aquafit certification an asset
• Ontario Boater License an asset
• Must possess excellent customer service skills and be able to work as part of a team
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Detail-oriented and works with a high degree of accuracy
• Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment
• Must be extremely responsible with integrity and ability to maintain confidentiality and discretion

Working Conditions

• Must be able to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends and holidays
• Must be able to work in hot, humid or cold environments
• Required to move, lift, carry, pull and place objects weighing less than or equal to 25 pounds without assistance
• Significant exposure to varying weather conditions
• Stand, sit or walk for an extended period or for an entire shift
• Reach overhead and below the knees, including bending, twisting and pulling
• Move over sloping, uneven or slippery surfaces