The City of Orillia is hiring 

Head Lifeguards/Instructors

JOB DESCRIPTION

The City of Orillia is seeking dynamic Head Lifeguards/Instructors to join our team in the Parks and Recreation Division of the Environment and Infrastructure Services Department. The Head Lifeguard/Instructor will plan, organize and implement a high-quality program that is stimulating and enjoyable for all participants. This position provides supervision, guidance and coaching to staff and volunteers. The Head Lifeguard/Instructor is responsibile for the safety and well-being of all participants.  

The City does not use artificial intelligence in the hiring process. All job applications are reviewed personally by the appropriate Department/Division. This position is for an existing vacancy.

DUTIES

• Maintain complete vigilance while on duty and be ready to respond to any emergency situation; ensure proper zone coverage and guard station positioning.
• Supervise aquatic staff by supporting evaluations, staff development, coaching and mentorship, and providing timely feedback/corrections to improve performance.
• Ensure aquatic staff demonstrate professionalism by leading by example, being prepared and in uniform at the start of each scheduled shift and providing a high level of front-line customer service.
• Complete administrative duties in a timely manner, including schedules, evaluations, incident/accident reports, opening and closing procedures, attendance records, and other operational documentation.
• Maintain a safe, clean and organized aquatic space by completing daily checks, ensuring lifesaving and instructional equipment is clean, functional, set up appropriately and stored safely, and supporting janitorial maintenance as required.
• Monitor the use of equipment and supplies, conduct inventory counts, restock as needed, and communicate supply or maintenance needs to the immediate supervisor.
• Report all concerns, accidents, incidents, mechanical issues and maintenance needs to the immediate supervisor for follow-up and take appropriate action when required.
• Attend and participate in all mandatory pre-season and in-season in-service training, and support staff training as directed.
• Understand, adhere to and enforce Corporate Policies and Procedures, Confidentiality Guidelines, Emergency Procedures, Health and Safety Standards, and applicable legislative requirements for all participants and staff.
• Plan, organize, deliver, monitor and promote high-quality, safe and stimulating aquatic programs for all levels of participants, ensuring staff follow program plans and requirements.
• Handle program feedback, participant questions and concerns in a professional manner while providing exceptional customer service and maintaining order and proper conduct within the facility.
• Maintain an understanding of department programs and services and provide support as a Lifeguard/Instructor when necessary.
• Collaborate regularly with the immediate supervisor to support a consistent approach to aquatic leadership, staffing, daily operations, and service delivery.
• Assist with staff scheduling by supporting schedule adjustments, assigning additional tasks and helping fill shift vacancies as directed.
• May be required to instruct aquatic leadership courses, including but not limited to Bronze Medallion and Bronze Cross.
• Conduct pre-season and operational readiness tasks such as cleaning, inspections, inventory, set-up and other facility preparation duties in consultation with the immediate supervisor.
• Make day-to-day decisions regarding patron safety and ensure lifeguard-to-bather ratios.
• Public Education for water safety and drowning prevention.
• Provide instructional work in water safety, lifesaving, swimming techniques and Lifesaving Society or other swim programs as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

 QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum two (2) years’ experience as a lifeguard/instructor working with children.
• One (1) year of experience working in a leadership role within an aquatic environment is considered an asset.
• Current Lifesaving National Lifeguard Pool is required.
• Current LSS Swim instructors and LSS Lifesaving Instructor is required.
• Current Standard/Intermediate First Aid with CPR-C (dated within 3 years).
• High Five: Principles in Healthy Child Development.
• LSS Aquatic Supervisor Certification
• Additional Examiner and Instructor awards are considered as an asset.
• Previous leadership experience with a positive and responsible attitude. 
• Exceptional customer service, organization, verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to work independently, as well as part of a team.
• Knowledge of the methods, tools and equipment used in lifeguarding, as well as lifeguarding rules, regulations, and practices.
• Knowledge of emergency procedures and demonstrated skill in the application of lifeguarding surveillance and rescue techniques.
• Physical strength, stamina, and coordination to carry out the duties of the position.
• A current and acceptable Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Check must be provided prior to the employment commencement date, at the incumbent’s expense.

Work hours vary up to 44 hours per week and include evening and weekend shifts, as well as some holidays. Compensation for this position is $23.35 per hour (2026 rates). 

Interested candidates with the required qualifications are welcome to submit their resume and letter of interest by August 3, 2026, at 4:00 p.m.

Applications will only be accepted by applying online. Please click the "Apply Now" button below. 

Note: The City of Orillia is committed to an inclusive, barrier-free environment. Accommodation will be provided in all steps of the hiring process. Please advise the City of Orillia Human Resources Department if you require any accommodations to ensure you can participate fully and equally during the recruitment and selection process. We thank all applicants that apply and advise that only those to be interviewed will be contacted. In accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, personal information is collected under the authority of the Municipal Act 2001,S.O. 2001, c. 25., and will be used for the purpose of candidate selection. Questions about this collection should be directed to the Freedom of Information Coordinator, City of Orillia, 50 Andrew St. S., Orillia ON L3V 7T5.