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Head Lifeguard Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

YMCA of Greater Rochester

Head Lifeguard

Canandaigua, NY · On-site

$18.75/hr

The Head Lifeguard is also responsible to open the pool and life guard as required. The position is responsible for demonstrating YMCA leadership competencies to ensure the mission, purpose, image ...

New

YMCA of Greater Rochester

Head Lifeguard

Penfield, NY · On-site

$18.75/hr

The Head Lifeguard is also responsible to open the pool and life guard as required. The position is responsible for demonstrating YMCA leadership competencies to ensure the mission, purpose, image ...

New

YMCA of Greater Rochester

Head Lifeguard

Penfield, NY · On-site

$18.75/hr

The Head Lifeguard is also responsible to open the pool and life guard as required. The position is responsible for demonstrating YMCA leadership competencies to ensure the mission, purpose, image ...

New

Webster Central School District

Lifeguards

Webster, NY · On-site

$13.75 - $17/hr

Work in conjunction with head lifeguard to accomplish facility set up and alterations (I.e. movement of pool lanes and bulkhead) * Initiate the emergency response plan and call EMS (911) if necessary

All JobsHead Lifeguard JobsHead Lifeguard Jobs in Rochester, NY

Head Lifeguard information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$9

$24

$67

How much do head lifeguard jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for head lifeguard in Rochester, NY is $24.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $21.83 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.

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 complete additional training or certifications in water safety management and to pass a skills assessment before being promoted to a head lifeguard position.

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 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 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.

Where do head lifeguards make the most money?

Head lifeguards tend to earn higher salaries at large, high-traffic aquatic facilities such as water parks, resorts, and private clubs, especially in regions with a higher cost of living. Experience, certifications like CPR and first aid, and leadership skills also influence earning potential, with some facilities offering bonuses or overtime pay.
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Head Lifeguard jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Lifeguard job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,772 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Head Lifeguard

YMCA of Greater Rochester

Canandaigua, NY • On-site

$18.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

YMCA Of Greater Rochester rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

558th of 770 rated non-profit organizations

Job description

Description

$18.75 per hour and a Free Family YMCA Membership

Sunday 7:30a-4p & Monday-Thursday 12-9p


Under the direction of the Aquatic Staff Associate, the Head Lifeguard will uphold the rules and the guidelines of the pool to ensure the safest environment for all members. The Head Lifeguard is also responsible to open the pool and life guard as required. The position is responsible for demonstrating YMCA leadership competencies to ensure the mission, purpose, image and core values of the YMCA of Greater Rochester is conveyed.



SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Ensure pool is open each day on time and functioning properly
  • Ensure the safety of every individual at the YMCA, both in and around pool area.
  • Enforce all aquatic regulations including those pertaining to food and drink, and conduct.
  • Check pool and/or spa chemicals and address any issues with the pool and/or spa that require maintenance.
  • Ensure that the pool area is clean, tidy and in sanitary condition.
  • Assist with scheduling staff to cover shifts as needed to ensure safety ratios are met. The head guard is expected to fill in when there is a staff shortage.
  • Mentor and provide leadership to all lifeguards on staff.
  • Maintain accurate records as required by the NYS Health Department Sanitary Code.
  • Learn and review all emergency procedures and implement when required.
  • Assist in maintaining medical supplies as needed.
  • Responsible for program operation, quality and safety of pool area as assigned.
  • Ensure the safety of every individual at the YMCA, both in and around pool area by maintaining compliance with the YMCA of Greater Rochester Aquatic Safety Policies and Guidelines and NYS Health Department.
  • Maintain all required certifications.
  • Attend all required meetings, branch events, in-service, and trainings.
  • All other duties as assigned by the supervisor.


Requirements



Must be at least 18 years old and a high school graduate.

Must have at least one-year lifeguarding experience

Must have current YMCA or Red Cross Lifeguarding, CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer, First Aid Certification, and O2 Administration.

Must have YMCA Lifeguarding Instructor Certification or obtain it within 60 days of employment or have WSI and obtain YMCA certification within 60 days.

Must possess good communication skills to deliver excellent member service.

In addition to the above requirements, it is expected that the Head Lifeguard will bring to his/her position maturity, responsibility, positive values, and a sincere interest in working with people.



PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Must be able to stand for extended duration of shift.

Must be able to bend and stoop frequently.

Must be able to lift at least 50 pounds.

Must be able to stay in the pool for an extended period of time.

Must be able to communicate verbally, including projecting the voice across distances, and communicate swiftly and effectively with emergency personnel in person and over the telephone.

Must be able to hear noises and distress signals in an aquatic environment, including in water, understanding that significant background noise exists in aquatic environments.


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