What does a Lifeguard do?
Lifeguards can work at a variety of locations, including recreational swimming pools, water parks, beaches and lakes. They work with other Lifeguards to ensure the safety of swimmers, perform rescues, and in certain situations, perform lifesaving first aid. Their job is to ensure that guests have a fun and safe environment in which to swim and lounge about with family and friends. They may also be responsible for cleaning the area and checking water quality. This is especially important for Pool Lifeguards.
Lifeguard skills and qualifications
Lifeguards may have a wide range of skills. A job description for a Lifeguard may contain the following skills and qualifications:
- Current ARC certification
- CPR and First Aid certifications
- Successful completion of a pre-employment in-water practical skills test
- Experience coaching swim teams and teaching swimming lessons
- Two or more years of lifeguard experience
Lifeguard salary expectations
The average salary for a Lifeguard is $11.80 per hour. This information is based on 8,029 anonymously submitted salaries to Indeed from employees and users along with past and present Lifeguard job postings on Indeed within the last 36 months.
Lifeguard education and training requirements
While a Lifeguard position doesn’t typically require a high school diploma or GED, there are usually several certifications that are required including ARC, First Aid and CPR. Many employers also require Lifeguards to pass certification tests that include both a written exam and physical challenges to make sure a candidate is able to perform the necessary job duties.
Lifeguard experience requirements
While a summer job that can sometimes lead to year-round employment at indoor pools, most Lifeguards don’t do it for significant career growth prospects. For individuals looking to obtain employment in parks and recreation, a position as a Lifeguard can be an excellent way to work within that system.
Public pools generally have a team of Lifeguards supervised by a Manager who reports to executives within the parks and recreation department. At private clubs or pools, Lifeguards report directly to a Manager or supervisor. Experience as a Lifeguard can lead to supervisory or management positions.
Job description samples for similar positions
If a Lifeguard position isn’t exactly what you’re looking for, consider these similar positions:
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