1. Purpose of the Role
To lead and supervise the lifeguard team in maintaining a safe, clean, and welcoming aquatic environment for all users. The Head Lifeguard ensures that all safety protocols are followed, staff are well-trained and supported, emergency procedures are executed effectively when required, and that the pool plant room operates safely and efficiently.
2. Key Responsibilities
a. Supervise daily lifeguard operations, ensuring vigilant poolside coverage and adherence to safety standards.
b. Act as the lead responder in emergency situations, administering first aid and coordinating with emergency services as needed.
c. Conduct regular training sessions, safety drills, and performance reviews for lifeguard staff.
d. Manage lifeguard rotas, ensuring adequate staffing levels and shift coverage.
e. Ensure and record the pool safety, cleanliness, and equipment condition.
f. Support the induction and ongoing development of new lifeguards.
g. Liaise with management on operational issues, incidents, and customer feedback.
h. Enforce facility rules and handle patron interactions in a professional and respectful manner.
i. Maintain accurate records of incidents, training, and staff certifications.
j. Maintain logs of the pool plant day-to-day operations and water dosing
3. Key Relationships
a. Internal - Lifeguard team
b. Internal - Senior Site Lead
c. Internal - Reception and operations staff
d. Internal - Maintenance and/or cleaning teams
e. External - Facility users and members of the public
f. External - Emergency services (as required)
g. External - Training providers and certifying bodies
4. Person Specification
a. Essential
i. Current Lifeguard Qualification (e.g., RLSS NPLQ or equivalent)
ii. Valid First Aid at Work and CPR/AED certification
iii. Previous experience as a lifeguard, with supervisory responsibilities
iv. Strong leadership and communication skills
v. Ability to remain calm and act decisively in emergencies
vi. Knowledge of health and safety regulations in aquatic environments
vii. Pool Plant Operator Lv 3
b. Desirable;
i. Lifeguard Trainer/Assessor qualification
ii. Experience in staff training and development
5. Working Conditions
a. Indoor heated swimming pool and plant facility
b. Shift-based work, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays
c. Physically active role requiring prolonged periods of standing, swimming, and responding to emergencies
d. Exposure to water, pool chemicals, and varying temperatures
6. Performance Measures
a. Compliance with safety protocols and emergency response standards
b. Staff performance, training completion, and certification compliance
c. Incident response times and outcomes
d. Customer satisfaction and feedback
e. Poolside supervision quality and rota efficiency
f. Cleanliness and safety of the pool
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £29,120.00 per year
Work Location: In person