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Head Lifeguard Jobs (NOW HIRING)

YMCA of Greater Rochester

Head Lifeguard

Penfield, NY

$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 ...

Wave Aquatics

Head Lifeguard

Kirkland, WA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Head Guards foster a cohesive and cooperative environment by working closely with the Pool Director and Lifeguard Coordinator. This role includes leading and responding to emergency situations ...

SwimMetro Management, Inc

Head Lifeguard

Richmond, VA · On-site

Position Head Lifeguard Description SwimMetro Management is a full service pool management company specialized in providing seasonal lifeguard staff to community pools during the summer. We are ...

SwimMetro Management, Inc

Head Lifeguard

Richmond, VA · On-site

Position Head Lifeguard Description SwimMetro Management is a full service pool management company specialized in providing seasonal lifeguard staff to community pools during the summer. We are ...

YMCA of Greater Rochester

Head Lifeguard

Penfield, NY

$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 ...

City of Boston

Head Lifeguard

Boston, MA · On-site

$47K - $64K/yr

The Head Lifeguard's primary responsibility is the supervision of pool staff, patrons, and the entire pool facility in compliance with the local board of health regulations. The person in this ...

YMCA of Central Texas

Head Lifeguard

Cedar Park, TX · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Head Lifeguard Position The YMCA of Central Texas is seeking experienced, friendly, and high-energy Head Lifeguards. We are offering a $260 bonus for new staff, and a free family membership to the ...

Swim Metro Management Inc

Head Lifeguard

Sterling, VA · On-site

Head Lifeguard SwimMetro Management is a full service pool management company specialized in providing seasonal lifeguard staff to community pools during the summer. We are currently hiring Head ...

SwimMetro Management, Inc

Head Lifeguard

Moseley, VA · On-site

Position Head Lifeguard Description SwimMetro Management is a full service pool management company specialized in providing seasonal lifeguard staff to community pools during the summer. We are ...

Swim Metro Management Inc

Head Lifeguard

Richmond, VA · On-site

Position Head Lifeguard Description SwimMetro Management is a full service pool management company specialized in providing seasonal lifeguard staff to community pools during the summer. We are ...

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Head Lifeguard information

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How much do head lifeguard jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for head lifeguard in the United States is $24.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $22.12 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.
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Head Lifeguard jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Lifeguard job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,458 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Head Lifeguard

Grand Blanc Community School District

Grand Blanc, MI • On-site

$16/hr

Other

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Position: Head Lifeguard (Multiple Part Time Positions)
Pool Time Coverage:
Monday-Thursday:
5:00 am-6:00 am
9:00 am - Noon
Saturdays:
10:00 am-11:00 am
11 am-1:00 pm
1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
$16.00 per hour
Position Summary: The Head Lifeguard is responsible for assisting with operation of the facility and must be able to maintain safe swimming conditions in the pool, deck, and surrounding areas.
Minimum Qualifications:
• High School Diploma and must be at least 18 years old.
• Related field experience preferred.
• Current American Cross certification in Lifeguarding (including Deep Water)
• Previous lifeguard experience and up to date Lifeguard/First Aid/CPR/AED skills expected.
• Ability to work independently and demonstrate us of good judgment.
• Communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
• Ability to interact and communicate positively and appropriately with students, staff, parents and the public.
• Excellent customer service skills required.
Essential Functions:
• Assists in the administration of policies and procedures.
• Ability to test and make adjustments to pool chemicals when needed.
• Maintains effective, positive relationships with members, participants, and other staff.
• Knows and practices all emergency procedures and responds accordingly, which means attending all trainings and meetings.
• Punctuality and good attendance required.
• Preform any other duties as may be assigned.
Starting Date: TBD
This position will be paid through Edustaff: 4120 Brockton Dr. Suite#200 Grand Rapids, MI 49512
Nondiscrimination: The Board of Education does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, (including sexual orientation and gender identity), disability, age, religion, height, weight, marital or family status, military status, ancestry, genetic information or any other legally protected category, (collectively, "Protected Classes"), in its programs and activities, including employment opportunities.
The board-appointed coordinator for all concerns and complaints for issues relating to Title IX, Section 504, the Age Discrimination Act and Title II is: Deputy Superintendent or Director of Personnel, Administration Building, 11920 S. Saginaw • Grand Blanc, MI 48439, 810-591-6001, www.gbcs.org

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