1

Head Lifeguard Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

The Head Lifeguard creates a safe and positive atmosphere that promotes member safety and engagement. They are responsible for managing these functions in accordance with the stated mission, goals ...

Lifeguard (Part-Time)

Henderson, NC · On-site

$12 - $15/hr

Communicate regularly with Aquatics Program Supervisor and the Head Lifeguard regarding concerns, updates and challenges. * Possess knowledge of the Aquatics Center and be able to communicate this ...

Lifeguard (Part-Time)

Henderson, NC · On-site

$12 - $15/hr

Communicate regularly with Aquatics Program Supervisor and the Head Lifeguard regarding concerns, updates and challenges. * Possess knowledge of the Aquatics Center and be able to communicate this ...

... head guard or supervising experience * Lifeguard and First Aid certified * Successfully complete and pass all Life Time courses when hired * Ability to work in a stationery position and move about ...

... head guard or supervising experience * Lifeguard and First Aid certified * Successfully complete and pass all Life Time courses when hired * Ability to work in a stationery position and move about ...

... head guard or supervising experience * Lifeguard and First Aid certified * Successfully complete and pass all Life Time courses when hired * Ability to work in a stationery position and move about ...

... head guard or supervising experience * Lifeguard and First Aid certified * Successfully complete and pass all Life Time courses when hired * Ability to work in a stationery position and move about ...

... head guard or supervising experience * Lifeguard and First Aid certified * Successfully complete and pass all Life Time courses upon hire * Ability to work in a stationery position and move about the ...

... head guard or supervising experience * Lifeguard and First Aid certified * Successfully complete and pass all Life Time courses upon hire * Ability to work in a stationery position and move about the ...

Head Lifeguard information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$9

$24

$66

How much do head lifeguard jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for head lifeguard in Raleigh, NC is $24.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $21.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

Why do lifeguards bob heads?

Lifeguards bob their heads to stay alert and monitor the pool effectively, especially when scanning large areas. This movement helps them maintain focus, detect potential emergencies quickly, and ensure swimmer safety while on duty. It is a common practice among lifeguards to improve vigilance during their shifts.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Lifeguard jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Lifeguard jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Head Lifeguard jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Head Lifeguard jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Head Lifeguard jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Head Lifeguard jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Head Lifeguard jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Head Lifeguard job openings:
Head Lifeguard | A.E. Finley YMCA

Head Lifeguard | A.E. Finley YMCA

YMCA of the Triangle

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Part-time

Posted 15 days ago


YMCA Of The Triangle rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

379th of 663 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:

Under the supervision of the Aquatics Director, the Head Lifeguard maintains safe swimming conditions in the pool, on the pool deck, and surrounding areas. The Head Lifeguard creates a safe and positive atmosphere that promotes member safety and engagement.

They are responsible for managing these functions in accordance with the stated mission, goals, and policies established by the administrative staff, governing committees, and Board of Directors of the YMCA.

Job Schedule:

Monday-Sunday

Open between 5:00 am-9:00 pm (shift times vary)

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Maintains active surveillance of the pool area, when lifeguarding.
  • Knows/reviews all emergency procedures and responds to emergency situations immediately in accordance with YMCA policies, and procedures. Completes related reports as required.
  • Maintains effective, positive relationships with the members, participants and other staff.
  • Knows, understands, and consistently applies safety rules, policies and guidelines for the pool and aquatic area. Maintains accurate records as required by the YMCA and/or the state Health Department code.
  • Performs equipment checks and ensures appropriate equipment is available as needed.
  • Check the pool for hazardous conditions when arriving.
  • Performs chemical testing on pools and takes corrective action, as necessary.
  • Attends all staff meetings and in-service training.
  • Assists with the planning and execution of lifeguard staff training.
  • Provides leadership and guidance to lifeguards on a daily basis. Assists director in onboarding, training and evaluating program staff.
  • Maintains an open line of communication with direct supervisor and with the lifeguards on staff.
  • Models relationship-building skills in all interactions. Develops and maintains collaborative relationships with community organizations. Maintains regular, clear, and concise communication within area of responsibility.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Must be at least 16 years of age with a minimum of 1-2 years Lifeguard experience.
  • Previous experience in personal development and supervision of staff preferred.
  • Must obtain certifications through the YMCA in American Red Cross CPR for the Professional Rescuer, First Aid, and Administering Emergency Oxygen (or equivalent) within first 30 days of hire.
  • Current YMCA Lifeguard or equivalent certification required upon hire.
  • Ability to maintain certification-level of physical and mental readiness.
  • Must demonstrate lifeguard skills in accordance with YMCA standards.
  • Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community.
  • Multi-lingual desired but not required.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Physically perform all skills required of a lifeguard.
  • Hear noises and distress signals in the aquatics environment, including in the water and anywhere around the zone of responsibility.
  • Remain alert with no lapses in consciousness.
  • See and observe all sections of an assigned zone or area of responsibility.
  • Move objects with a weight of up to 50 pounds.