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Head Lifeguard Jobs in Springfield, MA (NOW HIRING)

Elms College

Head Swim Coach & CPO

Chicopee, MA

$50K/yr

Supervisory Responsibilities: +Assistant Head Swim Coach. + Student Labor. + Student Workers. + Lifeguards. Duties/Responsibilities: * Organization, development and administration of all phases of ...

Mtholyoke

Diving Coach

South Hadley, MA

$20/hr

... to the Head Swimming and Diving Coach. The Assistant Coach is responsible for assisting in all ... Lifeguard Training Certification. Full Background Checks: Mount Holyoke College is committed to ...

All JobsHead Lifeguard JobsHead Lifeguard Jobs in Springfield, MA

Head Lifeguard information

See Springfield, MA salary details

$9

$24

$68

How much do head lifeguard jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for head lifeguard in Springfield, MA is $24.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $22.02 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 Springfield, MA? The most popular types of Lifeguard jobs in Springfield, MA are:
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What job categories do people searching Head Lifeguard jobs in Springfield, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Head Lifeguard jobs in Springfield, MA are:
What cities near Springfield, MA are hiring for Head Lifeguard jobs? Cities near Springfield, MA with the most Head Lifeguard job openings:
Head Lifeguard jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Lifeguard job openings in Springfield, MA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,278 per year, or $24.7 per hour.
Head Swim Coach & CPO

Head Swim Coach & CPO

Elms College

Chicopee, MA

$50K/yr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:

Under the general supervision of the Athletic Director, The Head Men's & Women's Swim Coach Is responsible for the coaching, dally administrative, and recruiting for the men's and women's swimming program. This position requires the Individual (o serve as the Certified Pool and Spa Operator (CPO) for the college, maintain the pool, and pool area and work closely with the assistant athletic for facilities, programming and management in all areas of aquatics. This position implements a wide variety of day-to-day responsibilities and secondary duties will be assigned from the following areas: sports Information, contest management, intramurals.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

+Assistant Head Swim Coach.

+ Student Labor.

+ Student Workers.

+ Lifeguards.

Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Organization, development and administration of all phases of the college athletic program
  • Establishes overall goals for the athletic program, organizes practice and is responsible for game management
  • Provides effective supervision of student athletes in practice, competition and life management
  • Ensures ongoing eligibility of athletes; monitors academic progress and demonstrates a sincere concern for the welfare of student athletes
  • Develops and implements a safe and effective training and competitive environment for student athletes
  • Recruits academically qualified players utilizing current methods
  • Serves as a role model to athletes by conducting oneself on and off the court in an ethical, appropriate, professional manner and displaying values that reflect the mission and goals of the College
  • Adheres to/Ensures compliance with NCAA, ECAC, rules, regulations, policies, procedures and Title lX.
  • Manages program budget and orders equipment/supplies
  • Select and supervises Assistant Coach(es)
  • Serves on committees as needed; attends department meetings as required
  • Maintain the Pool as the CPO on campus
  • Other duties as assigned

Required Skills:

  • Proven ability to relate to student athletes, academic community, student body, off-campus constituents, professional colleagues and the general public,
  • Proven administrative, organizational and recruiting skills.
  • Ability to use computer software and standard office equipment.
  • Valid driver's license and good driving record required.
  • CPR, first aid, and AED certification required.
  • CPO license.

Education and Experience:

  • Bachelor's degree in an appropriate field required, Master's degree preferred.
  • Coaching, strength and conditioning, sports information, and athletics administration at the collegiate level preferred.

Physical Requirements:

  • Use of general office equipment in an office setting.
  • Requires an equal amount of standing, sitting, walking, bending, stooping, climbing multiple levels of stairs, light lifting, near vision and manual dexterity to perform essential functions.
  • Requires the ability to travel between buildings on campus with exposure to inclement weather conditions.
  • May require driving or traveling to locations in the local and outside the local area on official College business.

Elms College (also known as College of Our Lady of the Elms), a private, Catholic, co-educational liberal

arts institution in Chicopee, Massachusetts, was founded in 1928 by the Sisters of St. Joseph of

Springfield. The institution offers Associate's, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctor of Nursing Practice

degrees. Dedicated to non-discriminatory educational practices, the College aims to eliminate barriers to

equal access and treatment for its community. Elms College provides rigorous academic challenges and

fosters a supportive community for students to thrive. Graduates leave Elms College richer, rooted in

faith, educated, compassionate, responsive to civic and social obligations, and capable of adjusting to

change without compromising principle.

Elms College's mission embodies the charism of the founders, the Sisters of St. Joseph, including

embracing "the love of neighbor without distinction," and whose Catholic heritage guides our

intellectual l, social, educational, and community endeavors.

Elms College is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will not be discriminated against because of

race, color, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin,

citizenship status, disability, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, medical condition, or any protected category prohibited by local, state or federal laws.


Salary/Compensation: $50,000 per year


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