ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Head Lifeguard Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

The Christian Family Centre

Lifeguard

Adrian, MI · On-site

$12.75 - $16.25/hr

Under the supervision of the Aquatics Manager and Head Lifeguard, the Lifeguard is responsible for maintaining a safe, welcoming, and Christ-honoring aquatic environment for all patrons of The Centre ...

Life Time, Inc.

Head Swim Team Coach

Canton, MI · On-site

Position Summary As the Aquatics Head Swim Team Coach, you must enjoy working in a fast-paced ... Lifeguard certification to StarGuard Elite Lifeguard, BLS CPR, and First Aid Certified (or bridge ...

Life Time, Inc.

Assistant Swim Coach

Commerce, MI · On-site

You will work with the Head Swim Team Coach to write and head Swim Team Group Workouts. You will ... Lifeguard certification to StarGuard Elite Lifeguard, BLS CPR, and First Aid Certified (or bridge ...

Life Time

Assistant Swim Coach

Bloomfield Township, MI · On-site

You will work with the Head Swim Team Coach to write and head Swim Team Group Workouts. You will ... Lifeguard certification to StarGuard Elite Lifeguard, BLS CPR, and First Aid Certified (or bridge ...

Life Time, Inc.

Assistant Swim Coach

Bloomfield, MI · On-site

You will work with the Head Swim Team Coach to write and head Swim Team Group Workouts. You will ... Lifeguard certification to StarGuard Elite Lifeguard, BLS CPR, and First Aid Certified (or bridge ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsHead Lifeguard JobsHead Lifeguard Jobs in Michigan

Head Lifeguard information

See Michigan salary details

$8

$21

$59

How much do head lifeguard jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for head 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 head lifeguard?

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.

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 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.

How do you become a head lifeguard?

To become a head lifeguard, you typically need to have prior experience as a lifeguard, hold current certifications such as Lifeguard, CPR, and First Aid, and demonstrate leadership skills. Many employers require candidates to pass a skills assessment and have a good safety record before advancing to a supervisory role.

What does a head lifeguard do?

A head lifeguard oversees the safety of swimmers and enforces pool or beach rules. They supervise other lifeguards, respond to emergencies, and ensure that safety protocols are followed. Certification in lifeguarding, CPR, and first aid is typically required for this role.

Where do head lifeguards make the most money?

Head lifeguards tend to earn higher salaries at large aquatic facilities, water parks, and private clubs, especially in regions with higher living costs. Experience, certifications such as CPR and first aid, and the size of the facility can 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 Head Lifeguard jobs in Michigan?

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

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

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

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Head Lifeguard jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Head Lifeguard job openings:

Head Lifeguard jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Lifeguard job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,851 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

WELLNESS CENTER - Student-Reg Pool Lifeguard

Andrews University

Berrien Springs, MI • On-site

$13.25 - $16.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

WELLNESS CENTER - Student-Reg Pool Lifeguard
Job Classification
Student-Regular
Position summary
  1. Maintain Lifeguard & CPR-PR & First Aid Certification
  2. Know and enforce all pool safety rules and policies consistently.
  3. Attend & participate in all In-service training sessions.
  4. Maintain a positive attitude of Professionalism & Customer Service.

Qualifications summary
  1. Maintain Lifeguard & CPR-PR & First Aid Certification
  2. Know and enforce all pool safety rules and policies consistently.
  3. Attend & participate in all In-service training sessions.
  4. Maintain a positive attitude of Professionalism & Customer Service.

Duties and responsibilities
i.Be in Uniform: AU pool guard shirt, whistle, fanny pack, lifeguard tube with line attached over one shoulder and head. No jewelry especially around the neck and face for safety. No hats. Wear shorts and swimsuit under guard shirt.
ii.Check Homebase regularly for work schedule and for communication from your manager and other team members. Important policy adjustments or pertinent changes or reminders will be communicated this way.
iii.Check Pool chemicals: chlorine and pH 6am, 11:30am, 5:00pm
iv.Set up for any programming as needed before patrons arrive
v.Ensure patron safety & prevent injuries (scan all areas of your zone & enforce rules consistently)
vi.Record patron count numbers per activity
vii.Do not teach or give swimming instruction while on duty
viii.Remember your attitude and posture sets the tone for the time you are on duty. Let your body language and positive deportment demand the respect your position deserves
ix.Keep conversations short and keep attention focused on activity in the pool
x.Do not use telephone in the wet office for any purpose except an emergency. Do not let yourself become distracted by cellular devices, smart watches, or tablets, etc. Patron Surveillance should never be compromised.
xi.Perform Secondary Duty List only if patron count is low (less than 10) and if there is a 2 nd guard posted on duty as well.
xii.Address all grievances to the Head Lifeguard.
Supervisory responsibilities
Maintain a safe aquatic Environment.
Qualifications
  1. Maintain Lifeguard & CPR-PR & First Aid Certification

Technical competencies
N/A
Interpersonal interactions
  1. Maintain a positive attitude of Professionalism & Customer Service.

Physical demands
Check Pool chemicals: chlorine and pH
Be able to respond effectively in an emergency
Swim a ten laps in ten minutes
Work environment
Normal aquatics atmosphere.

Apply