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Certified Pool Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Life Time

Aquatics Assistant Lead

Vernon Hills, IL · On-site

$19.75/hr

Pool and Hot Tub Association (PHTA) Certified Pool Operator PayThis is an hourly position with wages starting at $19.75 and pays up to $26.50, based on experience and qualifications. Benefits All ...

Life Time, Inc.

Aquatics Assistant Lead

Vernon Hills, IL · On-site

$19.75/hr

Pool and Hot Tub Association (PHTA) Certified Pool Operator Pay This is an hourly position with wages starting at $19.75 and pays up to $26.50, based on experience and qualifications. Benefits All ...

Life Time

Facility Engineer

Cary, IL · On-site

Certified Pool Operator (CPO) or Aquatic Facilities Operator (AFO) Life Time is a place for everyone. As an organization, we are committed to an inclusive, diverse and equitable workplace that ...

Blue Gems Swim School

Aquatics Manager

Norridge, IL · On-site

CPO License (Certified Pool Operator) - certification provided as necessary. Duties & Responsibilities: * Manage the daily operations of school and facility. * Manage the staff to ensure positive ...

Oakbrook Park

Aquatic Facility Manager

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

Certifications: CPR/AED, First Aid, StarGuard Lifeguard Instructor, and Certified Pool Operator or Aquatic Facility Operator preferred. Must have the ability to acquire these certifications within 6 ...

Jobless

Aquatic Facility Manager

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$57 - $63/hr

Certifications: CPR/AED, First Aid, StarGuard Lifeguard Instructor, and Certified Pool Operator or Aquatic Facility Operator preferred. Must have the ability to acquire these certifications within 6 ...

New

Oakbrook Park

Aquatic Facility Manager

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$57K - $63K/yr

Certifications: CPR/AED, First Aid, StarGuard Lifeguard Instructor, and Certified Pool Operator or Aquatic Facility Operator preferred. Must have the ability to acquire these certifications within 6 ...

Life Time, Inc.

Facilities Engineer

Naperville, IL · On-site

$28/hr

Certified Pool Operator (CPO) or Aquatic Facilities Operator (AFO) Pay This is an hourly position with wages starting at $28.00 and pays up to $38.50, based on experience and qualifications. Benefits ...

Life Time

Facility Engineer

Burr Ridge, IL · On-site

$28/hr

Certified Pool Operator (CPO) or Aquatic Facilities Operator (AFO) PayThis is an hourly position with wages starting at $28.00 and pays up to $38.50, based on experience and qualifications. Benefits ...

Banner Property

MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

$36 - $38/hr

Certified Pool Operator (CPO) license preferred * Physical Requirements: frequent walking, stairs, standing, climbing, crouching, kneeling, and reaching; Ability to lift, push, and pull up to 40 lbs.

Life Time

Facilities Engineer

Naperville, IL · On-site

$28/hr

Certified Pool Operator (CPO) or Aquatic Facilities Operator (AFO) PayThis is an hourly position with wages starting at $28.00 and pays up to $38.50, based on experience and qualifications. Benefits ...

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All JobsCertified Pool Operator JobsCertified Pool Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Certified Pool Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$21

$36

How much do certified pool operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for certified pool operator in Chicago, IL is $21.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $20.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a certified pool operator?

A Certified Pool Operator (CPO) is a person who has completed a specialized training program in pool and spa maintenance, water chemistry, and safety. This certification is often required by health departments for those responsible for operating public pools or spas. CPOs ensure pools are clean, safe, and compliant with regulations by monitoring water quality, handling chemicals, and maintaining equipment. The certification is typically obtained through a course and exam provided by organizations like the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance.

What are some common challenges a certified pool operator faces in maintaining pool water quality, and how can they be addressed?

Certified Pool Operators often encounter challenges such as fluctuating chemical levels, unexpected contamination, and equipment malfunctions. Maintaining consistent water quality requires regular testing, prompt adjustment of chemicals, and thorough record-keeping. Staying proactive with preventive maintenance on pumps and filters, and quickly addressing any issues, helps prevent larger problems and ensures a safe and enjoyable swimming environment. Collaborating with facility managers and maintenance staff is also essential for timely repairs and compliance with health regulations.

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

To thrive as a Certified Pool Operator, you need a thorough understanding of water chemistry, pool maintenance, and safety regulations, typically validated by completing a Certified Pool Operator (CPO) course and certification. Familiarity with pool filtration systems, automated chemical feeders, and testing kits is essential for daily operations and compliance. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication with facility staff and patrons are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure safe, clean, and well-maintained aquatic environments, preventing health hazards and regulatory violations.

What is the difference between Certified Pool Operator vs Pool Maintenance Technician?

AspectCertified Pool OperatorPool Maintenance Technician
CertificationsRequires CPO certification from NSPFMay have various certifications or on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentPublic and private pools, water parks, resortsResidential and commercial pools, spas
Job ResponsibilitiesWater testing, chemical balancing, safety complianceCleaning, equipment maintenance, minor repairs

The Certified Pool Operator (CPO) typically holds a certification and oversees pool safety, water quality, and compliance. Pool Maintenance Technicians focus more on cleaning and maintaining pool equipment. While both roles work in pool environments, the CPO has a broader scope involving safety and regulation adherence, making it a more comprehensive certification for pool management.

How much does a certified pool operator make?

A certified pool operator in Florida typically earns between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer. The average annual salary ranges from approximately $30,000 to $50,000, with opportunities for overtime and additional certifications to increase earning potential.

What does it take to be a certified pool operator?

A certified pool operator typically needs to complete a state-approved training course and pass an exam to obtain certification. They should have knowledge of water chemistry, safety protocols, and pool maintenance, and often need to renew certification periodically. Practical experience and understanding of local regulations are also important for the role.

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Certified Pool Operator jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Certified Pool Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Certified Pool Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,991 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Aquatics Assistant Lead

Life Time

Vernon Hills, IL • On-site

$19.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Life Time rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 394 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 63 rated gym and leisure clubs

Job description

Position Summary

As the Aquatics Assistant Manager, you will help the Manager to oversee all programs in the Department. The programs include Family Swim hours, Swim Lessons, Swim Team, Masters Swim and more. You will ensure the department is safe and successful in operations and finances. You will manage all team members in the department.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

  • Helps to cast, train and develop all Aquatics Team Members
  • Helps to manage the financials of the Aquatics business to meet or exceed department goals
  • Ensures Aquatics Team Members offers a safe and friendly experience for our members and guests
  • Responds to all member inquires in a professional way

Minimum Required Qualifications

  • Ability to swim 300 yards/meters without stopping
  • Ability to tread water for 1 minute
  • Ability to swim, retrieve a 10 lb diving brick from the bottom of the pool and swim the brick to the top without stopping

Education:

  • Some College experience

Years of Experience:

  • 1 Year of Customer Service Experience
  • 1 Year of supervisory/management experience
  • 1 Year of swim instruction/coaching experience
  • 2 Years of lifeguard experience

Licenses / Certifications / Registrations:

  • StarGuardElite Lifeguard, BLS CPR, and First Aid Certified (or bridge toStarGuardwhen current certification expires or within 1styear, whichever is first).For Canada, Lifesaving Society Lifeguard certification and Standard FA with CPR C.

Preferred Skills, Experience, and/or Qualifications:

  • National Swimming Pool Foundation Certified Pool Operator: Pool and Hot Tub Association (PHTA) Certified Pool Operator
PayThis is an hourly position with wages starting at $19.75 and pays up to $26.50, based on experience and qualifications.Benefits

All team members receive the following benefits while working for Life Time:

  • A fully subsidized membership

  • Discounts on Life Time products and services

  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with company discretionary match (21 years of age and older)

  • Training and professional development

  • Paid sick leave where required by law

Full-time Team Members are eligible for additional benefits, including:

  • Medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage

  • Short term and long term disability insurance

  • Life insurance

  • Pre-tax flexible spending and dependent care plans

  • Parental leave and adoption assistance

  • Paid time off, including 5 to 20 vacation days per calendar year (based on tenure) and paid sick leave

  • Deferred compensation plan, if the team member meets the required income threshold

Life Time may use artificial intelligence ("AI") in connection with various aspects of its recruitment and hiring functions. Ultimate employment decisions are subject to human review and oversight. Life Time does not use AI in a manner that would have the effect of subjecting applicants to discrimination on the basis of protected classes or proxies or for engaging in any protected activity under applicable law.

Life Time is a place for everyone. As an organization, we are committed to an inclusive, diverse and equitable workplace that respects and celebrates the unique contributions of each individual while ensuring we remain an equal opportunity employer that recruits, hires, trains and promotes based on merit and qualifications.

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