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Chicago Lifeguard Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City Colleges of Chicago

Lifeguard - PT

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20/hr

LIFEGUARD - PART TIME MALCOLM X COLLEGE Malcolm X College is seeking two Lifeguards to join the ... Adheres to the City Colleges of Chicago Customer Service Excellence Standards. * Performs other ...

City Colleges of Chicago

Lifeguard - PT

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20/hr

LIFEGUARD - PART TIME MALCOLM X COLLEGE Malcolm X College is seeking two Lifeguards to join the ... Adheres to the City Colleges of Chicago Customer Service Excellence Standards. * Performs other ...

City Colleges of Chicago

Lifeguard - PT

Chicago, IL

$20/hr

LIFEGUARD - PART TIME MALCOLM X COLLEGE Malcolm X College is seeking two Lifeguards to join the ... Adheres to the City Colleges of Chicago Customer Service Excellence Standards. * Performs other ...

Salvation Army

Lifeguard

Chicago, IL

$19.60/hr

Seasonal Lifeguard LOCATION/DEPT: Kroc Center REPORTS TO (TITLE): Aquatics Manager STATUS TYPE ... The Vision of the Chicago Kroc Center is to touch individuals, families and seniors of the ...

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Chicago Lifeguard information

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How much do chicago lifeguard jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for chicago lifeguard in the United States is $16.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do lifeguards get paid?

Lifeguards in Chicago typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and the employer. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end, while experienced lifeguards with advanced certifications can earn higher wages, especially during peak seasons or at private facilities.

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

To thrive as a Chicago Lifeguard, you need strong swimming ability, first aid and CPR certification, and knowledge of water safety protocols, typically supported by completion of a lifeguard training course. Familiarity with rescue equipment, two-way radios, and incident reporting systems is commonly required. Attention to detail, quick decision-making, and effective communication are vital soft skills for ensuring swimmer safety and coordinating with team members. These skills and qualifications are crucial for preventing accidents, responding rapidly to emergencies, and maintaining a safe environment at Chicago's public beaches and pools.

What is the difference between Chicago Lifeguard vs Chicago Swim Instructor?

AspectChicago LifeguardChicago Swim Instructor
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Lifeguard CertificationCPR, First Aid, Swim Instructor Certification
Work EnvironmentPool, beach, aquatic facilitiesSwimming pools, aquatic centers
Primary ResponsibilitiesRescue, safety monitoringTeaching swimming skills

Chicago Lifeguards focus on safety, rescue, and accident prevention in aquatic environments, requiring lifeguard-specific certifications. Chicago Swim Instructors primarily teach swimming techniques and improve water skills, often holding swim instructor certifications. While both roles work in aquatic settings and require CPR and First Aid, their core duties differ: lifeguards prioritize safety and rescue, whereas swim instructors focus on teaching and skill development.

How do you become a lifeguard?

To become a Chicago lifeguard, applicants must complete a lifeguard training course approved by the American Red Cross or a similar organization, which includes water rescue, CPR, and first aid certifications. Candidates typically need to be at least 16 years old, pass a swimming skills test, and submit a background check. Once certified, they can apply for lifeguard positions at public pools or beaches in Chicago.

What are Chicago lifeguards?

Chicago lifeguards are trained professionals employed by the Chicago Park District to ensure the safety of swimmers and visitors at the city's public beaches and pools. Their primary responsibilities include monitoring swimming areas, enforcing safety rules, performing rescues, and administering first aid when necessary. Lifeguards must complete certification in lifesaving, CPR, and first aid, and pass physical fitness tests. They play a crucial role in preventing accidents and responding quickly to emergencies, helping to create a safe environment for all patrons.

What are some common challenges Chicago lifeguards face during the summer season?

Chicago lifeguards often encounter challenges such as managing large crowds at popular beaches, dealing with rapidly changing weather conditions on Lake Michigan, and maintaining constant vigilance for swimmer safety. The role requires strong communication and teamwork, as lifeguards must coordinate with colleagues and emergency responders during incidents. Staying physically prepared and alert throughout long shifts is essential, especially during weekends and holidays when beach attendance peaks.

What is the 10-20 rule for lifeguards?

The 10-20 rule for lifeguards states that they should scan their assigned area every 10 seconds and actively observe the water within 20 seconds to ensure safety. This practice helps lifeguards quickly identify and respond to potential emergencies in a busy aquatic environment.

Is 22 too old to be a lifeguard?

Chicago Lifeguards and other lifeguard roles typically do not have an upper age limit, and being 22 is generally considered a suitable age for the position. Success in the role depends on certifications such as CPR and lifeguard training, as well as physical fitness and swimming skills.
What cities are hiring for Chicago Lifeguard jobs? Cities with the most Chicago Lifeguard job openings:
What states have the most Chicago Lifeguard jobs? States with the most job openings for Chicago Lifeguard jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Chicago Lifeguard jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Chicago Lifeguard jobs are:
Chicago Lifeguard jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chicago Lifeguard job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 13% Full Time, 74% Part Time, and 13% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,387 per year, or $16.1 per hour.
Lifeguard - PT

Lifeguard - PT

City Colleges of Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

$20/hr

Other

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

LIFEGUARD - PART TIME

MALCOLM X COLLEGE

Malcolm X College is seeking two Lifeguards to join the Continuing Education Department. Under supervision, Lifeguard provides water surveillance and swimming rule enforcements ensuring the safety of swimming patrons.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

  • Under the general supervision of the CCC Athletics Department, provides water surveillance and swimming rule enforcement ensuring the safety of patrons participating in recreational swimming activities, learn-to-swim classes, or competitive swim training, swim meets, or other aquatic facility activities.
  • Watches for unusual activities on the part of swimmers and is able to recognize struggling swimmers, drowning swimmers, distressed swimmers, and swimmers with sudden medical conditions such as stroke, heart attack, asthma, diabetes, or seizures along with the ability to recognize potential emergency conditions or situations.
  • Provides rapid response lifesaving swim rescue and basic first-aid treatment and CPR administration, if required.
  • Fills out incident report forms after accidents or injuries proactively collecting witness names and numbers.
  • Maintains safe and clean aquatic facilities along with proper maintenance of life saving equipment and related materials and supplies.
  • Participates in in-service training to maintain life guarding skills.
  • Wears appropriate uniform, attire, and life-saving gear for the position.
  • Exhibits public respect and enthusiasm as duties and responsibilities are carried out in all work environments.
  • Adheres to the City Colleges of Chicago Customer Service Excellence Standards.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High School Diploma required.
  • Must be certified lifeguard and prior experience as junior lifeguard, or swimming instructor (certifications and/or licenses must be active)
  • Lifeguard must be in good physical and mental condition to provide life saving services.
  • Prior experience with and proficient use of lifesaving equipment; basic first aid kit, CPR mask, rescue buoy or rescue tube.
  • Delivery of effective verbal and written communications and takes responsibility for understanding others, multilingual skills a plus.
  • Flexibility to work outside normal college business hours, weekends, or holidays.
  • Able to exercise independent judgment and respond calmly to high-pressure emergency situations.
  • Ability to work in a team environment with flexible work hours as needed for scheduled college events.
  • Schedule varies evening and weekend availability is required
  • Promotes a positive role model and favorable public image as City Colleges of Chicago representative.

SALARY: $20 per hour

Offered salary will be determined by the respective collective bargaining agreement and applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities.

Benefits information is found at https://www.ccc.edu/departments/Benefits/      

MXC was recognized for its best-in-class student and staff recruitment and retention practices, inclusive learning and working environments, and meaningful community service and engagement opportunities. 

This position is represented by the Local 1708 union. 

We are an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer.
Thank you for your interest in City Colleges of Chicago! 

Additional Information
  • Salary Range: Salary: $20 per hour

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