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Application Deadline

March 6, 2026

Compensation Details

Full Pay Range

19.20 - 26.87

Generally, the hiring range is from the minimum up to 80% of the range. This is a part-time hourly position.

Scheduled Weekly Hours

15

Benefit Eligibility Group

Seasonal Limited Hours

Locate the Benefit Eligibility Group value on the Employee Benefit Eligibility document to identify the benefits offered for this job.

Job Description Summary

Under the supervision of the Recreation Program Coordinator, provides water safety and rescue services via continual surveillance and patrol of the Boulder Reservoir lake, shoreline, and surrounding areas. This position provides education and enforcement of rules and policies in accordance with local, state, and federal laws and regulations. Lake Patrol assists in managing facility operations with a focus on water surveillance while providing visitor management through safety, code enforcement, roving interpretation, visitor education and contacts.

Job Description

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Operates lake patrol vessels and assets including powered watercraft, jet skis, trucks, and gators in an efficient, reliable, and safe manner during day and night operations, often in variable weather, water, and road conditions, as required be assignment.
Acts with limited supervision and exercises considerable independent judgment while prioritizing tasks, responding to emergencies, and interacting with staff and the public.
Respond quickly and calmly in stressful and emergency situations.
Actively monitors radio transmissions and responds in a clear and concise manner.
Delivers prompt and professional solutions to staff and public interactions.
Handles complaints and criticism with grace, elevating problems and concerns to reservoir management as appropriate.
Supports triathlon events with course set-up and break-down and vessel operation for lifeguard surveillance during the event.
Model teamwork with a positive attitude.
Assists in asset management and repair of lake patrol vessels, assets, and equipment; conducts regular inspections to ensure facility and equipment are safe.
Demonstrates a proactive approach toward cleanliness and facility maintenance.
Executes weekly water samples of the swimming area during high season and submits them to the water treatment facility.
Maintains a variety of records including daily boat count usage, education and enforcement contacts, emergency response logs, and incident and accident reports.
Assists in training the water safety team during orientation, extensive pre-season training, weekly water safety and lake patrol in-service trainings, and monthly facility code trainings.

Minimum Qualifications

Minimum of 18 years old to operate watercraft, vehicles and UTVs per the city’s driving policy.
Valid Driver's License and ability to maintain acceptable driving record.
Have and maintain acceptable background information, including references, and criminal history.

Preferred Qualifications

Current American Red Cross certification in Lifeguarding Instructor, or equivalent.
Six (6) months’ experience as a lifeguard.
Bilingual in English and Spanish.

Required Education And Experience

Current American Red Cross certification in Lifeguarding, First Aid and CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer, and Administering Emergency Oxygen, or successful completion prior to the start of employment
Current American Red Cross certification in Waterfront Lifeguarding or successful completion prior to the start of employment.
Current Boat U.S. Foundation Boating Safety certification for Colorado or successful completion within ninety (90) days of start date.
Six (6) months’ of related experience such as park ranger, EMT, military, or law enforcement.

SUPERVISION

Supervision Received: Recreation Program Coordinator

Supervision Exercised: None

Working Conditions And Requirements

Physical and mental effort: Ability to perform a wide range of strenuous physical and manual tasks in an outdoor environment with variable weather conditions. Physical ability to stand, walk, and kneel; hand/eye coordination to operate personal computer and office equipment; vision for reading, recording and interpreting information; speech communication and hearing to maintain communication with employees and the public.
Work environment: Works in both indoor and outdoor environments with variable weather and at times unpredictable conditions.

Additional Job Description

Last updated: March 2025

The City of Boulder is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability, age, or other legally protected statute. For individuals with disabilities who would like to request an accommodation, please send a request to riskmanagement@bouldercolorado.gov.

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