Summer Works Staff (ICSCI: Lifeguard)

The Summer Works Staff (Lifeguard) at Kennedy Krieger Institute has a range of responsibilities that center around ensuring the safety of all pool participants. Key tasks include supervising the pool area, maintaining a clean environment, testing pool chemical levels, controlling access during program hours, and assisting clients and staff as they transition in and out of the pool. Lifeguards also have the vital role of supervising locker rooms and conducting program tours.

To apply for the Summer Works Staff (Lifeguard) role at Kennedy Krieger Institute, candidates must hold valid certifications as a Lifeguard, First Aid, and CPR. Additionally, a Pool Operator credential is required. Experience as a lifeguard in therapeutic settings is preferred, along with a High School Diploma or GED. Competence in serving diverse age groups is also essential due to the varied clientele.

Yes, candidates for the Summer Works Staff (Lifeguard) position at Kennedy Krieger Institute are preferred to have at least one year of previous experience in a lifeguarding role, especially within therapeutic settings. This experience helps ensure readiness to professionally engage with our clients and address their specific needs.

Kennedy Krieger Institute provides a robust benefits package for Summer Works Staff (Lifeguard) that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401K plan with a match, tuition reimbursement, a student debt relief program, free parking, and childcare subsidies. We are dedicated to supporting our employees both professionally and personally!

In the Summer Works Staff (Lifeguard) role, Kennedy Krieger Institute emphasizes the importance of safety for clients with disabilities. Lifeguards are trained to understand specific patron needs and procedures tailored for individuals with disabilities. They receive orientation that includes demonstrating technical proficiency in pool operations and client transfers, ensuring that all aquatic activities are conducted in a safe and respectful manner.

In an interview, you should highlight relevant experiences that showcase your ability to work in therapy-associated environments. Share specific duties, such as supervising individuals with disabilities or managing challenging situations, and discuss how you ensured their safety and engagement in aquatic activities.

Express your familiarity with pool safety protocols, including testing chemical levels and making necessary adjustments. You can also mention the importance of maintaining cleanliness and monitoring both the pool area and locker rooms proactively to prevent any incidents.

Detail your ability to remain calm under pressure and follow established emergency protocols. Explain how you would quickly assess the situation, alert emergency services if needed, and execute a rescue if you felt it was safe to do so, keeping the safety of others a priority.

Discuss your approach to building rapport with clients by being patient, understanding, and attentive to their unique needs. Share examples of how you tailor your communication and interactions to ensure their comfort and trust in the aquatic environment.

In your response, emphasize the importance of acting swiftly to maintain safety. Describe the specific steps you would take: testing chemicals regularly, documenting readings, adjusting chemicals as necessary, and notifying the Aquatics Manager if levels remain imbalanced.

Explain that the Pool Operator certification is essential for understanding the technical aspects of pool maintenance and safety. It covers fundamentals like water chemistry, filtration, and regulations, which ensure that the aquatic environment is safe for all users.

Share strategies like constant scanning of the pool, remaining aware of groups and individuals’ activities, and effective communication with fellow staff for support. Reiterate the importance of being proactive to prevent accidents.

Discuss your conflict-resolution skills by providing examples of how you have diffused tense situations. Emphasize the value of communication and understanding, as well as the importance of involving supervisors when necessary.

Reflect on your passion for helping others, especially those with disabilities, and point to Kennedy Krieger’s reputation for excellence in caring for individuals with diverse needs. Show your alignment with the organization’s mission and values.

Detail your pre-program routine, including checking chemical levels, ensuring equipment is in place, cleaning the pool area, setting up instructional spaces, and conducting any necessary safety briefings with staff and participants.