Lifeguarding at the Y isn't just a job- it's an opportunity to connect with others while serving the community. Our aquatics team is as invested in our members as they are in ensuring the safety of our pools, supporting their fitness and confidence while creating lasting bonds. Find out how this team is making waves in and out of the pool, and how you can be a part of it.
More Than Just a Workplace
When your work goes beyond a job, you’re valued as more than just an employee. One of the things that makes working at the Y special is the strong sense of purpose and community that comes with the role. Lifeguards don’t just keep people safe—they become part of members’ lives, getting to know them, and supporting them on their journeys.
This dedication is matched by the Y’s commitment to its staff, offering benefits like a FREE YMCA membership, discounts on programs, and retirement options to ensure that you’re supported in your own personal and professional growth.
Daniel, our Downtown Aquatics Director, explains what sets the Y apart:
“You get to work at a place that supports the community…it’s not just the company itself, but the patrons who come in and those who donate to allow others who otherwise wouldn’t have the opportunity to come be part of the community.”
It’s this community-driven atmosphere that makes working at the Y so fulfilling. Lifeguards at the Y are more than employees—they’re an integral part of helping our members thrive.
A Team You Can Count On
What makes the Y different from other workplaces? According to Tim, a lifeguard, it comes down to our people. “[It’s] the coworkers you get to have when you work at a place that is committed to helping the community.”
At the YMCA, being part of the lifeguard crew means working with people who are just as committed to helping others as you are. The relationships that form between teammates are what keep us motivated, focused, and having fun!
Whether it’s assisting each other during busy shifts or celebrating the victories of patrons together, the sense of teamwork is strong. It’s a workplace where you know you can rely on your fellow lifeguards to have your back.
Making Memories That Last
One of the most rewarding aspects of lifeguarding at the Y is seeing the positive impact you can have on others. Lifeguards witness personal milestones every day, and those moments become some of the most memorable and fulfilling parts of the job.
Lee, another YMCA lifeguard, shared one of his most meaningful memories:
“My favorite memory is getting to help motivate a patron on his journey of weight loss, where he lost over 250 pounds.”
Lifeguarding at the Y is just as much about celebrating personal victories and knowing that your work has made a difference as it is about teaching swim lessons or monitoring the pool. For Daniel, it’s memories like these that stand out:
“I got to work with a pair of brothers who were only in town for EAA with their first swim lessons. Later, their parents told me that the boys said they were no longer afraid of the water and that swim lessons were their favorite part of the day.”
Tim’s favorite memory from his time working at the Y? “The relationships I have built with coworkers and patrons.”
These experiences go to show how being a lifeguard at the Y allows you to leave a lasting, positive impression on others.
A Work Environment That Encourages Growth
The YMCA is an environment that encourages personal and professional growth. Lifeguards here don’t just develop technical skills like water safety; they also build important life skills like leadership, communication, and problem-solving.
As Lee puts it,
“The community that is built at the YMCA…[It’s] a great work environment with coworkers who are helpful and friendly.”
When you work at the Y, you become part of a supportive team that helps you grow and succeed. Every shift provides opportunities to learn something new, overcome challenges, and strengthen connections with both coworkers and patrons.
Ready to Join the YMCA Lifeguard Team?
If you're passionate about making a difference and seeking meaningful work, the Y is the place for you. Becoming a lifeguard at the Oshkosh YMCA is a chance to be part of a mission-driven team that values both personal connections and community impact. Whether you’re already certified or in need of training, (which we offer for FREE!), we’d love to have you on our team.
Apply today to become a lifeguard at the Oshkosh YMCA and start helping others thrive, both in and out of the water.
The aquatics department isn't the only place that you can make a difference! See all open positions below.
Updated Sept 24, 2024.