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Average Lifeguard Pay Hour Jobs (NOW HIRING)

September 2, 2026 - January 14, 2027 Hiring: 25-30 Lifeguards Pay: Starting at $16.25/hour + performance bonuses available Join a Professional Rescue Team Not everyone is built for this work. At The ...

Swim School Lifeguard

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

  • Retirement

Lifeguard Reports to: Aquatics Supervisor/Assistant General Manager Description: The lifeguard is ... pay. Hours: 3-30 hours per week Compensation: Commensurate with experience and skills Benefits ...

Lifeguard

Madison, WI · On-site

$16/hr

Lifeguards will average 15-35 hours per week, with the higher end occurring during lesson instruction periods. Lifeguards should hold current certifications in Lifeguarding, CPR (with AED), and First ...

Lifeguard

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Lifeguard Reports to: Aquatics Supervisor/Assistant General Manager Description: The lifeguard is ... Great Pay * Flexible Schedules * Work/Life Balance Compensation: $16.00 - $19.00 per hour IF YOU'RE ...

Swim School Lifeguard

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$15.50 - $20/hr

  • Life

  • Retirement

Lifeguard Reports to: Aquatics Supervisor/Assistant General Manager Description: The lifeguard is ... pay. Hours: 3-30 hours per week Compensation: Commensurate with experience and skills Benefits ...

Lifeguard

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$15.25/hr

Lifeguard certification classes offered through Ocean Breeze Waterpark. Essential Duties and ... average a certain number of hours per week during the qualifying time period and work through a ...

Waterpark Attendant/Lifeguard

Pigeon Forge, TN · On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Waterpark Attendant/Lifeguard Pay: $20.00 per hour Schedule: Sun.-Tues. 9:45 AM-5:15 PM, Wed. & Thurs. Off, Fri. & Sat. 2 PM- 10:30 PM Schedule 2: Mon. & Tues. Off, Wed. & Thurs. 9:45 AM- 6 PM, Fri ...

Lifeguard

Highland Park, IL

$16.50 - $18.25/hr

Seasonal, non-exempt Wage Range: $16.50 - $18.25 per hour Benefits: • Health & Fitness Membership ... The Lifeguard works in a climate of an average of 86 degrees Fahrenheit with humidity. He/she must ...

Waterpark Attendant/Lifeguard

Pigeon Forge, TN · On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Waterpark Attendant/Lifeguard Pay: $20.00 per hour Schedule: Sun.-Tues. 9:45 AM-5:15 PM, Wed. & Thurs. Off, Fri. & Sat. 2 PM- 10:30 PM Schedule 2: Mon. & Tues. Off, Wed. & Thurs. 9:45 AM- 6 PM, Fri ...

Lifeguard

Highland Park, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $18.25/hr

Seasonal, non-exempt Wage Range: $16.50 - $18.25 per hour Benefits: • Health & Fitness Membership ... The Lifeguard works in a climate of an average of 86 degrees Fahrenheit with humidity. He/she must ...

Part-Time Lifeguard

Sun Prairie, WI · On-site

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

Available to work a minimum of one shift per week - Average shift ranges from 2-4 hours *Summer ... Requires ability to demonstrate lifeguard skills in accordance with YMCA standards. * Requires ...

Part-Time Lifeguard

Sun Prairie, WI · On-site

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

Available to work a minimum of one shift per week - Average shift ranges from 2-4 hours *Summer ... Requires ability to demonstrate lifeguard skills in accordance with YMCA standards. * Requires ...

Part-Time Lifeguard

Sun Prairie, WI · On-site

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

Available to work a minimum of one shift per week - Average shift ranges from 2-4 hours *Summer ... Requires ability to demonstrate lifeguard skills in accordance with YMCA standards. * Requires ...

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Average Lifeguard Pay Hour information

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$9

$17

$37

How much do average lifeguard pay hour jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for average lifeguard pay hour 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 is the average hourly pay for a lifeguard?

The average hourly pay for a lifeguard in the United States typically ranges from $11 to $16 per hour, depending on factors such as location, experience, and the employer. Lifeguards working at private clubs, resorts, or in areas with a higher cost of living may earn higher wages. Entry-level lifeguards tend to start at the lower end of the pay scale, while those with certifications or several years of experience can earn more. It's important to note that wages can also vary seasonally and by whether the position is full-time or part-time.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lifeguard, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lifeguard, you need strong swimming abilities, knowledge of water safety, and current lifeguard and CPR/first aid certifications. Familiarity with rescue equipment, emergency response protocols, and sometimes pool management systems is typical. Attention to detail, quick decision-making, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure the safety of swimmers and to respond swiftly to emergencies.

What are some typical challenges lifeguards face during their shifts, and how can these be managed effectively?

Lifeguards often face challenges such as maintaining constant vigilance during long hours, quickly responding to emergencies, and managing crowded or unpredictable environments. To address these, it's important to stay physically and mentally alert, take scheduled breaks, and rely on strong communication with team members. Many facilities offer regular training and drills to help lifeguards stay prepared and confident when handling high-pressure situations.

What is the difference between Average Lifeguard Pay Hour vs Pool Attendant Pay Hour?

AspectAverage Lifeguard Pay HourPool Attendant Pay Hour
Average Pay$12 - $15$10 - $13
Required CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Lifeguard CertificationBasic CPR, First Aid (sometimes optional)
Work EnvironmentPublic pools, beaches, aquatic centersPool decks, locker rooms, recreational facilities
Job DutiesMonitor swimmers, enforce safety rules, rescue if neededMaintain pool cleanliness, assist swimmers, enforce rules

While both roles involve working around pools and ensuring safety, lifeguards typically have more advanced certifications and focus on rescue and emergency response, earning slightly higher pay. Pool attendants mainly handle maintenance and customer service tasks, with generally lower wages.

More about Average Lifeguard Pay Hour jobs

What cities are hiring for Average Lifeguard Pay Hour jobs?

Cities with the most Average Lifeguard Pay Hour job openings:

What states have the most Average Lifeguard Pay Hour jobs?

States with the most job openings for Average Lifeguard Pay Hour jobs include:

Infographic showing various Average Lifeguard Pay Hour job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,774 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Lifeguard (5592)

The St. James

Springfield, VA • On-site

$16.25/hr

Other

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Fall 2026 Lifeguard
Department of Safety & Rescue
Season: September 2, 2026 - January 14, 2027
Hiring: 25-30 Lifeguards
Pay: Starting at $16.25/hour + performance bonuses available
Join a Professional Rescue Team
Not everyone is built for this work.
At The St. James Department of Safety & Rescue, we don't just certify lifeguards-we develop professional rescuers.
Our mission extends well beyond the pool. From competitive swimming and our indoor water park to contracted waterfronts, open water triathlons, and special events throughout the year, our team protects thousands of guests across some of the region's most dynamic aquatic environments.
You'll train alongside experienced lifeguards, EMTs, and Safety Officers who remember what it was like to be new and are committed to helping the next generation succeed. You'll be challenged, supported, and surrounded by teammates who expect the best from one another because that's what this work demands.
If you're looking for more than just a part-time job-if you're looking for a team that will challenge you, invest in your growth, and have your back when it matters most-you'll find it here.
Be Part of Something Greater.
What Sets DSR Apart
  • Professional Rescue Culture - Built around our core values of Rescue Readiness, Ownership, and Integrity.
  • Versatile Assignments - Indoor pools, water park, contracted waterfronts, open water triathlons, and special events.
  • Continuous Training - Paid academy, regular in-service training, and realistic rescue scenarios.
  • Leadership Opportunities - Grow into Officer, Instructor, EMT, Open Water Rescue, Event Operations, or Auditing, Quality Assurance & Training roles.
  • A Culture That Develops You - Coaching, mentorship, and continuous development throughout your career.
What You'll Do
  • Prevent emergencies through proactive surveillance and guest engagement.
  • Respond confidently to aquatic and medical emergencies.
  • Deliver CPR, first aid, and emergency care until EMS arrives.
  • Conduct facility safety inspections and maintain operational readiness.
  • Work as part of a disciplined rescue team committed to continuous improvement.
Who We're Looking For
We can teach rescue skills. We can't teach character.
We're looking for people who take pride in holding themselves to a higher standard-people who are dependable, coachable, calm under pressure, and committed to serving something bigger than themselves.
Qualifications
  • At least 17 years old by the start of the season.
  • Strong swimming ability.
  • Customer service, athletics, or team experience preferred.
What You'll Gain
  • Nationally recognized certifications enhanced with advanced first aid instruction taught by experienced EMTs and Paramedics.
  • Leadership experience that matters by learning to make sound decisions, communicate clearly, mentor others, and earn the trust of your teammates during real operations.
  • First response skills developed through realistic rescue scenarios, medical emergencies, and operational training that go beyond minimum certification standards.
  • Confidence under pressure by learning to stay calm, think critically, and take action when every second counts.
  • A professional network and experiences that last through unique assignments, meaningful responsibility, and serving alongside people who are committed to excellence.

Be Part of Something Greater
Not everyone is built for this work.
If you're ready to challenge yourself, embrace responsibility, and become part of a team that holds itself to a higher standard, we'd like to meet you.
Apply today at thestjames.com or email safety@thestjames.com to begin your journey with the Department of Safety & Rescue.
Equal Opportunity Employer Committed to Diversity & Inclusion