Lifeguard

Join the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and be part of a team committed to creating a positive impact in the lives of fellow Texans. At HHSC, your contributions matter, and we support you at each stage of your life and work journey. Our comprehensive benefits package includes 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees, a defined benefit pension plan, generous time off benefits, numerous opportunities for career advancement and more. Explore more details on the Benefits of Working at HHS webpage.

Functional Title: Lifeguard**
Job Title: Direct Support Profession III
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm
Department: Recreation
Posting Number: 19525
Closing Date: 11/01/2026
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Healthcare Support
Salary Range: $3,649.83- $4,594.50
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Salary Group: TEXAS-A-14
Shift: Day
Additional Shift: Days (First)
Telework: Not Eligible for Telework
Travel: Up to 5%
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Full Time/Part Time: Full time
FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt
Facility Location: Richmond State Supported Living Center
Job Location City: RICHMOND
Job Location Address: 2100 PRESTON
Other Locations: Richmond
MOS Codes:** No military equivalent

Brief Job Description:

Come work in an environment where we truly value and respect those we serve and believe in the mission that all people can achieve a higher level of wellness and independence.

The state supported living centers serve people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are medically fragile or who have behavioral problems. The centers provide campus-based direct services and supports at 13 centers located throughout the state. Learn About Our State Supported Living Centers

If you are looking for a place to work where you can establish a career that is filled with purpose, this is the job for you!

The lifeguard (Indoor Swimming Pool) Coordinator’s primary responsibility is the planning, development and implementation of aquatic activities and a variety of recreation and leisure activities for persons across the campus in conjunction with fellow IDT members. These programs are designed to meet the variety of individual needs and interests evidenced by persons living at SSLC.

The lifeguard Coordinator with minimal supervision actively participates in and assists in the coordination of the endeavors of the Recreation Team. The lifeguard Coordinator is responsible for safety and security at the pool. Coordinator is responsible for the effective operation of therapeutic recreation facilities, including pool Bldg.The lifeguard Coordinator works under the direction of the Recreation Director.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs):

Attends work on a regular basis and may be required to work a specific shift schedule or, at times, even a rotating schedule, extended shift and/or overtime in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.

• Plans aquatic and other recreational activities that are enjoyed by persons with a variety of skills, abilities and interests.

• Makes safe and effective decision.

• Coordinates and facilitates use of pool by external groups.
• Motivates and encourages the participation of staff in recreational activities.
• Communicates effectively on a verbal or written basis.
• Identifies cost effective alternatives and effectively adjust/support ongoing change. Assists in development of plan to maximize use of on campus recreational activities. Works cooperatively with others to maximize recreational activity.
• Works effectively with minimal supervision.
• Maintains general knowledge of ICF/MR and programs.
• Utilizes computer skills to efficiently complete job tasks.

Completes other duties as assigned which include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):

The Lifeguard Coordinator shall have the:

• Ability to independently coordinate the planning and implementation of recreational activities that will be enjoyed by persons with a variety of skills, abilities and interests.
• Ability to train, motivate, encourage and evaluate the participation of staff in recreational activities. 3. Ability to facilitate workgroups, coordinate special projects.4. Ability to make safe and effective decisions.5. Ability to communicate effectively on a verbal or written basis.
• Ability to work effectively with minimal supervision.
• Ability to identify cost effective alternatives and effectively adjust/support ongoing change.
• Ability to supervise the activities of staff or volunteers in accordance with SSLC personnel guidelines.
• Working knowledge of ICF/MR standards and Outcomes for People.
• Physical requirements same as those of direct contact staff.
• Ability to organize workload and consistently meet deadlines.
• Demonstrated computer skills or ability/commitment to learn to an acceptable level of competency.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

Requires current Red Cross Lifesaving, Lifeguard, or WSI certification. Requires a current Class B Texas driver’s license and RSSLC driving certification.

Initial Screening Criteria:

High school diploma or GED preferred.

At least six months of work experience with people who have intellectual and developmental disabilities or in performing therapeutic work.

Additional Information:

Applicants must pass a fingerprint criminal background check, pre-employment drug screen, and registry checks including the Client Abuse/Neglect Reporting System (CANRS), Nurse Aide, Medication Aide and Employee Misconduct and HHS List of Excluded Individuals/Entities (LEIE).

Males between the ages of 18 – 25 must be registered with the Selective Service.

All State Supported Living Center Employees are subject to Random Drug Testing.

Flexibility in work hours may be required for this position. The position may be required to work overtime and/or extended hours. Must be willing to work weekends and holidays.

All applicants must be at least 18 years of age to be considered for employment at a state-operated facility.

Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC.

Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, and Veterans:

Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor’s Job Descriptions, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions.

ADA Accommodations:

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHSC and DSHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

Pre-Employment Checks and Work Eligibility:

Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.

HHSC uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Download the I-9 Form

Telework Disclaimer:

This position may be eligible for telework. Please note, all HHS positions are subject to state and agency telework policies in addition to the discretion of the direct supervisor and business needs.