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Head Lifeguard Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

The City of Elkhart

Head Lifeguard

Elkhart, IN

$18 - $19.50/hr

Aquatics Manager JOB SUMMARY The Head Lifeguard provides on-deck leadership and supervision of lifeguards to ensure safety standards, operational procedures, and guest service expectations are ...

City of Elkhart

Head Lifeguard

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$18 - $19.50/hr

Aquatics Manager JOB SUMMARY The Head Lifeguard provides on-deck leadership and supervision of lifeguards to ensure safety standards, operational procedures, and guest service expectations are ...

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Head Lifeguard information

See Indiana salary details

$8

$23

$65

How much do head lifeguard jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for head lifeguard in Indiana is $23.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $21.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Head Lifeguards, and how are they typically addressed?

Head Lifeguards often face challenges such as managing a diverse team, ensuring consistent enforcement of safety protocols, and responding to emergencies efficiently. Balancing administrative duties—like scheduling and training—with active supervision on the pool deck can also be demanding. These challenges are typically addressed through strong communication, regular staff training, and fostering a supportive team environment where all lifeguards feel empowered to raise concerns or suggest improvements.

What is the difference between Head Lifeguard vs Lifeguard?

AspectHead LifeguardLifeguard
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Lifeguard Certification, AEDCPR, First Aid, Lifeguard Certification, AED
Work EnvironmentSupervises lifeguards, manages safety protocols, oversees pool areaPerforms water rescues, monitors swimmers, enforces rules
ResponsibilitiesLeadership, training, emergency response coordinationMonitoring, rescue, enforcing safety rules

The main difference between a Head Lifeguard and a Lifeguard is that the Head Lifeguard has additional leadership and supervisory responsibilities, overseeing other lifeguards and managing safety procedures. Both roles require similar certifications and work in aquatic environments, but the Head Lifeguard plays a key role in team management and emergency coordination.

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, and it is a key component of effective surveillance and rescue protocols.

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

To thrive as a Head Lifeguard, you need strong swimming skills, advanced lifesaving knowledge, and certifications such as Lifeguarding, CPR, and First Aid. Familiarity with pool safety systems, rescue equipment, and incident reporting tools is typically required. Leadership, clear communication, and quick decision-making are vital soft skills for guiding staff and ensuring patron safety. These abilities are crucial for preventing accidents, managing emergencies, and maintaining a safe aquatic environment.

What is the highest paid lifeguard?

The highest paid lifeguards are typically those with advanced certifications, such as lifeguard instructor or emergency medical technician (EMT), working in high-paying locations or private clubs. Salaries can reach over $50,000 annually for experienced professionals in affluent areas or specialized environments. Factors like experience, certifications, and the type of employer influence top earnings in the field.

What is a head lifeguard?

A head lifeguard is a supervisory position responsible for overseeing the safety of swimmers, managing other lifeguards, and enforcing pool or beach rules. They typically hold certifications such as Lifeguard, CPR, and First Aid, and may coordinate emergency responses and training for staff.

What are Head Lifeguards?

Head Lifeguards are experienced lifeguards who supervise other lifeguards and ensure the safety of swimmers at pools, beaches, or aquatic facilities. They oversee daily operations, enforce safety rules, conduct training sessions, and respond to emergencies. Additionally, Head Lifeguards may assist with scheduling, maintenance checks, and communication with facility management. Their leadership is crucial for maintaining a safe and efficient aquatic environment.

How much does a head lifeguard earn?

A head lifeguard's salary typically ranges from $12 to $20 per hour, depending on location, experience, and the facility. They often receive additional benefits such as certifications in CPR and first aid, and may work during peak hours or special events.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lifeguard jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Lifeguard jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Head Lifeguard jobs in Indiana? For Head Lifeguard jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Head Lifeguard jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Head Lifeguard jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Head Lifeguard jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Head Lifeguard job openings:
Head Lifeguard jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Lifeguard job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, and 43% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,966 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Head Lifeguard

The City of Elkhart

Elkhart, IN

$18 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

City Of Elkhart (Indiana) rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

340th of 836 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

CITY OF ELKHART – JOB DESCRIPTION
DEPARTMENT: Parks and Recreation
POSITION: Lifeguard
DIVISION: Aquatics
STATUS : Full Time/Seasonal
CATEGORY : Hourly, $18-$19.50
FLSA : Non-Exempt
REPORTS TO : Aquatics Manager
JOB SUMMARY
The Head Lifeguard provides on-deck leadership and supervision of lifeguards to ensure safety standards, operational procedures, and guest service expectations are consistently maintained at aquatic facilities including Spray Park, Ideal Beach, and Pierre Moran Pool. This role supports Aquatic Management by monitoring staff performance, coordinating daily operations, and serving as the primary safety lead during assigned shifts.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Provide direct supervision and leadership to lifeguards during assigned shifts.
• Ensure lifeguards maintain active surveillance and follow safety protocols.
• Assist with staff rotations, break schedules, and daily assignments.
• Support training, mentoring, and coaching of lifeguards.
• Monitor facility safety and respond to incidents as lead responder when necessary.
• Assist with enforcing facility policies and managing patron concerns.
• Communicate operational or safety concerns to Aquatic Management.
• Assist with opening, closing, and operational readiness of facility.
• Perform lifeguard duties as needed.
OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Effectively communicate with swimmers, patrons, and other staff members.
• Regularly inspect and maintain aquatic facility.
• Communicate with the Aquatic Manager about facility issues and concerns.
• Assist with facility cleaning on a regular basis.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
• Lifeguard certification from a recognized organization (e.g., Red Cross, YMCA).
• CPR and First Aid certification.
• Previous lifeguard experience preferred but not required.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
• Ability to swim long distances and tread water for extended periods.
• Capability to lift and carry rescue equipment.
• Physical fitness to perform water rescues and administer first aid.
• Must possess a demonstrated level of ability and experience in areas of oral and written communications.
• Ability to work with people and calm/deescalate tense situations when necessary.
• Must be able to effectively prioritize daily work functions.
PHYSICAL, MENTAL, AND VISUAL SKILLS • Good swimming skills are necessary.
• Must have the ability and history of remaining calm and rational when confronted with stressful or volatile situations.
• Must have a positive demeanor when in contact with the public.
WORKING CONDITIONS
• Work environment is generally performed in an indoor and outdoor setting. Lifeguards will typically work afternoon hours and weekends. Occasionally hours will be extended to cover Parks and Recreation programs and rentals.
POST OFFER TESTING REQUIRED
• The City of Elkhart is a Drug Free Workplace. Therefore, successfully passing a post offer drug screen is required (random drug testing may be conducted after employment).
• Background checks producing acceptable BMV and criminal history reports required.
POLICY STATEMENT
• The incumbent is required to possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities, and the physical, mental, and visual skills described in this job description to perform the principal duties, responsibilities and essential job functions.
• This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the incumbent. Principal duties and responsibilities are intended to describe those functions that are essential to the performance of this job and other duties and responsibilities include those that are considered incidental or secondary to the overall purpose of this job.
• This job description does not state or imply that the above are the only duties and responsibilities assigned to this position. Employee holding this position will be required to perform any other job-related duties as requested by the Mayor. All requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with a disability.

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