2

Full Time Lifeguard Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Lifeguard

Traverse City, MI · On-site

$18.25/hr

Hiring immediately with full-time, part-time, and flexible scheduling - must be at least sixteen (16) years or older except for some locations and aquatics positions, such as lifeguard, where the ...

Lifeguard

Traverse City, MI · On-site

$18.25/hr

Hiring immediately with full-time, part-time, and flexible scheduling - must be at least sixteen (16) years or older except for some locations and aquatics positions, such as lifeguard, where the ...

Lifeguard Full Time

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$13.75 - $17.50/hr

Role: Lifeguard Summary: Under general supervision, ensures the safety of patrons of Goldfish Swim School - Grand Rapids by preventing and responding to emergencies. Primary Responsibilities: • ...

Full Time Lifeguard information

See Michigan salary details

$8

$21

$59

How much do full time lifeguard jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time lifeguard in Michigan is $21.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.61 and $19.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a full time lifeguard?

A Full Time Lifeguard is responsible for ensuring the safety of swimmers and patrons at a pool, beach, or water park. Their duties include monitoring the water, enforcing safety rules, performing rescues, and providing first aid when needed. They also conduct regular safety checks and maintain a clean and organized pool deck. Full Time Lifeguards typically work a set schedule and may be required to work weekends or holidays. Strong swimming skills, CPR certification, and an ability to respond quickly in emergencies are essential for the role.

What does a typical day look like for a full time lifeguard?

A typical day for a full time lifeguard involves monitoring assigned swimming areas, enforcing facility safety rules, performing regular water rescues and first aid when necessary, and conducting routine checks of safety equipment. Lifeguards also participate in ongoing training drills to maintain their skills and may assist with facility cleaning or administrative tasks. They often work as part of a team, communicating closely with other lifeguards, supervisors, and sometimes pool managers to ensure coverage and rapid response in emergencies. The role offers the opportunity to develop strong teamwork and leadership abilities, and can be a stepping stone to positions such as head lifeguard or aquatic supervisor.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time lifeguard?

To thrive as a Full Time Lifeguard, you need strong swimming ability, quick decision-making skills, and knowledge of water safety procedures, usually backed by certification in CPR, First Aid, and lifeguarding from recognized organizations like the Red Cross or the YMCA. Familiarity with rescue equipment such as rescue tubes, backboards, and automated external defibrillators (AEDs) is essential. Exceptional alertness, clear communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are key soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the safety of swimmers and providing swift, effective responses during emergencies.

Is being a full time lifeguard a full-time job?

Full-time lifeguards typically work around 35 to 40 hours per week, often during peak hours at pools, beaches, or water parks. The schedule may include evenings, weekends, and holidays, and some positions require certifications such as CPR and lifeguard training. The role can be seasonal or year-round depending on the employer and location.

Is being a full-time lifeguard a job?

Yes, being a full-time lifeguard is a recognized employment position that involves supervising swimming areas, enforcing safety rules, and responding to emergencies. It typically requires certification in lifeguard training and first aid, and may involve working during peak hours or seasons. Full-time lifeguards often work scheduled shifts and may receive benefits depending on the employer.

Where do full time lifeguards get paid the most?

Full time lifeguards tend to earn the highest wages in regions with higher living costs and greater demand for aquatic safety services, such as affluent urban areas or popular tourist destinations. States or cities with strict safety regulations and higher minimum wages also typically offer better pay for lifeguards. Certifications like CPR and first aid can influence earning potential, especially in competitive markets.

Where do lifeguards get paid the most?

Lifeguards tend to earn the highest wages in regions with a high cost of living and strong tourism industries, such as popular coastal areas and resort destinations. Factors like experience, certifications (e.g., CPR, first aid), and the type of facility (private pools vs. public beaches) also influence pay rates.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lifeguard jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Lifeguard jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Full Time Lifeguard jobs in Michigan?

For Full Time Lifeguard jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Full Time Lifeguard jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Full Time Lifeguard jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Full Time Lifeguard jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Full Time Lifeguard job openings:

Infographic showing various Full Time Lifeguard job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 4% Temporary, 1% Contract, 1% Nights, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $44,851 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

$18.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Great Wolf Lodge rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 310 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

51st of 108 rated hotels


Job description

Pay: $18.25 


At Great Wolf, Lifeguard is one of the most important positions in the lodge, as they are vital to ensuring the safety of our guests, their families, and anyone that visits our waterpark attractions. No matter the situation, Great Wolf lifeguards are trained to respond and ensure all guests enjoy a safe and fun environment.


Hiring immediately with full-time, part-time, and flexible scheduling – must be at least sixteen (16) years or older except for some locations and aquatics positions, such as lifeguard, where the requirement is at least fifteen (15) years or older.  

Join our Pack:   

Grow your career: A great place to start or advance your career with cross-training, scholarship fund, and talent development programs at all levels   

Great Perks: Take advantage of exclusive perks for you, your family, and friends – including discounted vacations and employee referral incentives   

Learn While You Earn: Gain access to Great Wolf University for on-the-job training, functional, and leadership training   

Prioritize Your Well-Being: We offer flexible scheduling, access to a holistic wellness program and technology, and support through our Employee Assistance Program and Employee Relief Fund   

Celebrate Your Uniqueness: Join a team that cheers for diversity and inclusion through programs that make everyone feel welcome and recognized.   

Benefits:   

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance   
  • Health savings account   
  • Telehealth resources   
  • Life insurance   
  • 401K with employer match   
  • Paid vacation time off   
  • Paid parental leave 


Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Supervises and provides surveillance of swimmers and guests during park hours, special events, and training sessions
  • Responds to emergency situations in assigned zone
  • Assists in communicating emergency situations outside of assigned zone
  • Administers and coordinates emergency first aid as necessary
  • Enforces the rules and regulations of the waterpark
  • Advises aquatics management of unsafe and unsanitary conditions
  • Provides superior customer service to all guests by assisting all in a polite and expedient manner
  • Performs daily routine chores and maintenance of waterpark to ensure neat and orderly appearance
  • Performing within Ellis Certification standards


Required Qualifications & Skills

  • No experience required, training provided
  • Must be at least 16 years of age
  • Ability and willingness to achieve Certification in First Aid, CPR and Ellis & Associates Lifeguard Training
  • Successful completions of criminal background check and drug screen


Desired Qualifications & Traits

  • Good oral communication skills
  • Prior First Aid, CPR, AED experience
  • Prior lifeguard training and/or experience


Physical Requirements

  • Swim 50 yards in 4 ft. of water and retrieve a 10 lb brick from the bottom of pool
  • Sit or stand for extended periods of time
  • Capable of prolonged exposure to hot and humid environments
  • Ability to climb multiple flights of stairs
  • Minimum of 20/25 corrected or uncorrected vision and no permanent eye abnormalities


Pay Rate: $$18.25  /hr 

An employee’s pay position within the salary range will be based on several factors, including, but not limited to, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, travel requirements, revenue-based metrics, any contractual agreements, and business or organizational needs. The range listed is just one component of Great Wolf’s total compensation package. Other rewards may include annual bonuses, a Paid Time Off policy, and other perks.

Application Instructions:   

Click on “Apply Now” or chat with a recruiter (bottom of your screen on Great Wolf’s website). After a brief application, all qualified applicants will be immediately invited to setup an interview or attend an upcoming hiring event.     


Position Close Date: 


Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities 

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c) 


This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a) and 60-741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities, and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, and for inquiring about, discussing or disclosing compensation. Moreover, these regulations require that covered prime contractors and subcontractors take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.


What Great Wolf Lodge employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom