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American Red Cross Lifeguard Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Beach Lifeguard

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$19.60 - $32.83/hr

Beach Lifeguards are also responsible to stay current with mandatory trainings and promote water ... Ensures the safety of swimmers and park beach patrons by using American Red Cross Lifeguarding and ...

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American Red Cross Lifeguard information

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$9

$17

$37

How much do american red cross lifeguard jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for american red cross lifeguard in the United States is $17.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an American Red Cross lifeguard?

To thrive as an American Red Cross Lifeguard, you need strong swimming ability, knowledge of water safety, and a valid Red Cross Lifeguard certification. Familiarity with rescue equipment, CPR, AED, and first aid procedures is typically required. Exceptional alertness, communication, and teamwork skills help lifeguards respond quickly and effectively in emergencies. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the safety of swimmers and preventing accidents in aquatic environments.

What is an American Red Cross lifeguard?

American Red Cross Lifeguards are trained and certified professionals responsible for ensuring the safety of swimmers and patrons at pools, waterparks, and other aquatic facilities. They are skilled in water rescue techniques, first aid, and CPR, and are prepared to respond to emergencies quickly and effectively. The certification process includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training to ensure lifeguards are prepared for real-life situations. Lifeguards also monitor water conditions, enforce safety rules, and provide a safe environment for everyone.

What are some common challenges faced by American Red Cross lifeguards during a typical shift?

American Red Cross Lifeguards often face the challenge of maintaining constant vigilance, especially during long shifts or in crowded pool environments. They must balance monitoring multiple swimmers, enforcing safety rules diplomatically, and responding quickly to emergencies, all while remaining calm and professional. Additionally, lifeguards regularly collaborate with team members during rotations and emergency drills to ensure efficient coverage and preparedness. Adapting to changing weather conditions and managing interactions with patrons of all ages are also common aspects of the role.

What is the difference between American Red Cross Lifeguard vs YMCA Lifeguard?

AspectAmerican Red Cross LifeguardYMCA Lifeguard
CertificationsRed Cross Lifeguard CertificationYMCA Lifeguard Certification
Work EnvironmentPublic pools, beaches, aquatic centersCommunity pools, YMCA facilities
Employer & IndustryRed Cross, nonprofit, emergency preparednessYMCA, community recreation

Both American Red Cross Lifeguards and YMCA Lifeguards require similar certifications and work in aquatic environments like pools and beaches. The main difference lies in their employer and certification programs, with the Red Cross focusing on emergency preparedness and the YMCA emphasizing community recreation. Both roles are vital for ensuring safety in aquatic settings and often overlap in duties and training requirements.

More about American Red Cross Lifeguard jobs
What cities are hiring for American Red Cross Lifeguard jobs? Cities with the most American Red Cross Lifeguard job openings:
What states have the most American Red Cross Lifeguard jobs? States with the most job openings for American Red Cross Lifeguard jobs include:
What job categories do people searching American Red Cross Lifeguard jobs look for? The top searched job categories for American Red Cross Lifeguard jobs are:
Infographic showing various American Red Cross Lifeguard job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,774 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor

Greater Philadelphia YMCA

Conshohocken, PA • On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Greater Philadelphia YMCA rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

482nd of 767 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

Greater Philadelphia YMCA Employment Opportunity!
Do you love connecting with people and sharing your passion with others?
We are looking for our American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor to join our team at the Y! We spend our days positively impacting the community around us. We help children reach their potential, enact age appropriate goals, and we change lives in our Y community.
Some rewards for joining our team:
  • Free YMCA membership - access to all branches!
  • Flexible work schedule. Opening shifts available for the early bird!
  • Sweet discounts on child care and summer camp programs
  • Planning for your future? Ask us how we do it at the Y- it's awesome!

What is needed for this job as our American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor:
  • 18+ years of age
  • High School Degree or equivalent
  • Current Swim Lesson Instructor Trainer or ARC Lifeguard/First Aid, CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer instructor certification
  • Maintain current instructor and instructor trainer certifications (YMCA, Red Cross, etc.)
  • Must be able to travel to several branch locations

The responsibilities we will trust you as our American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor:
  • Adhere to and execute training designs for certification training classes
  • Verify all course pre-requisites and testing requirements are met
  • Complete and submit accurate written course records in a timely fashion
  • Conduct classes with energy and enthusiasm
  • Provide support and encouragement to participants
  • Arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the class time to set up equipment and to meet class participants
  • Provide excellent service to all members and notify supervisor of member needs, supplies or other items needed to ensure program quality and member satisfaction
  • Participate as a part of the aquatics staff team in providing a safe and enjoyable environment
  • Attend staff meetings and trainings as require
  • Communicate all pool rules and ensure that you are accessible and identifiable
  • Maintain current instructor certifications

What you can expect:
  • Support from an amazing leadership team
  • Opportunities to learn & grow at the YMCA
  • Being a part of a non-profit organization that works to make the community stronger

YMCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer All Qualified Women, Minorities, Persons with Disabilities, and US Veterans Encouraged to Apply
After reading this, if you're thinking this is great- Let's gooooooo! We want to meet you!
Get the ball rolling with our quick, 3-minute online application.
The Greater Philadelphia YMCA is an equal opportunity employer. The Y considers all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, or status as a Vietnam-era or special disabled veteran or other protected classification and in accordance with applicable laws.

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