1

Lifeguard Instructor Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Lifeguard

Erwin, TN · On-site

$12.50 - $16/hr

All lifeguards and instructors are responsible for finding their own coverage if they cannot work; please contact the aquatic director if you are unable to do so. 16. Clean the pool at the end of ...

Lifeguard Instructor certification and Swim Instructor certification * Must be certified in CPR, AED, Oxygen, first aid, and lifeguard * Pool operator certification preferred; Ability to obtain upon ...

New

Lifeguard Instructor certification and Swim Instructor certification * Must be certified in CPR, AED, Oxygen, first aid, and lifeguard * Pool operator certification preferred; Ability to obtain upon ...

LIFEGUARD

Maryville, TN · On-site

$12.50 - $16/hr

Lifeguard experience preferred. In Lieu Of * N/A Required Certifications, Registrations, Licenses ... Water Safety Instructor Preferred * Water Safety Instructor Trainer Preferred Work Shift Variable ...

Under the supervision of the Aquatic Director, swim instructors will provide aquatic instruction ... Lifeguard Certification or possess the ability to pass the Lifeguard Certification within 30 days ...

Position Summary As an Aquatics Swim Instructor, you will work in a fast-paced environment. You ... StarGuard Elite Lifeguard, BLS CPR, and First Aid Certified (or bridge to StarGuard when current ...

Position Summary As an Aquatics Swim Instructor, you will work in a fast-paced environment. You ... StarGuardElite Lifeguard, BLS CPR, and First Aid Certified (or bridge toStarGuardwhen current ...

Position Summary As an Aquatics Swim Instructor, you will work in a fast-paced environment. You ... StarGuard Elite Lifeguard, BLS CPR, and First Aid Certified (or bridge to StarGuard when current ...

Position Summary As an Aquatics Swim Instructor, you will work in a fast-paced environment. You ... StarGuardElite Lifeguard, BLS CPR, and First Aid Certified (or bridge toStarGuardwhen current ...

Front Desk

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $20/hr

You will work closely with both our Swim Instructors and Lifeguards to ensure our lessons run smoothly at all times. Tasks would include answering the phone, assisting customers with rescheduling or ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Lifeguard Instructor information

See Tennessee salary details

$5

$14

$21

How much do lifeguard instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for lifeguard instructor in Tennessee is $14.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.08 and $16.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lifeguard instructor?

To thrive as a Lifeguard Instructor, you need strong swimming and lifesaving abilities, a comprehensive knowledge of water safety, and current lifeguard/instructor certifications such as those from the American Red Cross or YMCA. Familiarity with rescue equipment, first aid/AED procedures, and training materials or e-learning systems is typically required. Excellent communication, leadership, and motivational skills help instructors effectively teach diverse groups and build confidence in students. These competencies are essential for ensuring safety, delivering high-quality instruction, and preparing others to respond to aquatic emergencies.

What are the typical responsibilities of a lifeguard instructor during a certification course?

As a Lifeguard Instructor, your main responsibilities during a certification course include teaching core water rescue skills, first aid, CPR, and emergency response protocols to participants. You will demonstrate techniques, supervise hands-on practice sessions, and assess students' competency through written and practical exams. Instructors also ensure all safety guidelines are followed throughout the training and provide constructive feedback to help candidates develop the confidence and skills required for lifeguarding roles. This role involves balancing instruction, supervision, and evaluation to maintain a positive and effective learning environment.

What is a lifeguard instructor?

A Lifeguard Instructor is responsible for training and certifying individuals in lifeguarding, CPR, first aid, and water rescue techniques. They teach courses following established safety protocols, assess candidates' skills, and ensure they meet certification requirements. Instructors may work at pools, beaches, or training centers and must stay updated on lifesaving techniques. Additionally, they serve as role models for water safety and may assist in emergency preparedness planning.

How to become a certified lifeguard instructor?

To become a certified lifeguard instructor, you must typically hold current lifeguard certification, complete an instructor training course approved by a recognized organization such as the American Red Cross or YMCA, and pass both written and practical exams demonstrating teaching skills and rescue techniques. Additional requirements may include age minimums, CPR certification, and a minimum number of hours as a lifeguard before qualifying to instruct others.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lifeguard Instructor jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Lifeguard Instructor jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Lifeguard Instructor jobs in Tennessee? For Lifeguard Instructor jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lifeguard Instructor jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Lifeguard Instructor jobs in Tennessee are:
Infographic showing various Lifeguard Instructor job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 21% Full Time, and 79% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $30,303 per year, or $14.6 per hour.

$12.50 - $16/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


YMCA rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 1,987 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

570th of 771 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

The Unicoi County Family YMCA is currently hiring lifeguards. Come Join Our Team!
Job Description
This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. A Lifeguard at the Unicoi County Family YMCA creates a safe and positive atmosphere that welcomes and respects all individuals while promoting and maintain safe swimming conditions in the pool, deck and surrounding areas in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures. Eliminates potential hazards, enforce rules and promotes sanitary conditions for swimming. Establishes and maintains discipline with respect when carrying out your duties.
Qualifications
  • Minimum age of 16.
  • Certifications: Basic life support or professional rescuer CPR/AED, first aid, and emergency oxygen administration.
  • Current YMCA Lifeguard or equivalent. Lifeguard Certification Class Available for the right candidate.
  • Child abuse prevention training within 30 days of hire date.
  • Ability to maintain certification-level physical and mental readiness.
  • Must demonstrate lifeguard skills in accordance with YMCA standards.
  • Show leadership, maturity, and self-control and be a positive role model.

Essential Functions
1. Maintain active surveillance of the pool area.
2. Know and review all emergency procedures, responding to emergency situations immediately in accordance with YMCA policies.
3. Address challenges with possible solutions in a timely manner.
4. Understand and consistently apply safety rules, policies, and guidelines for the pool and aquatic area.
5. Remain calm and objective under pressure or when challenged by others.
6. Maintain accurate records as required by the YMCA and/or the state health department code.
7. Perform equipment checks and ensure appropriate equipment is available when needed.
8. Inspect the pool for hazardous conditions upon arrival.
9. Conduct chemical testing when not guarding, as required, and take appropriate action.
10. Arrive at work at least 5 minutes before your shift starts, dressed in proper attire, including a lifeguard shirt, appropriate shorts or pants, and shoes or deck sandals.
11. Be rescue-ready at all times:
- Use the rescue tube with the shoulder strap on, keeping it across your lap while seated and holding it when standing or walking.
- Wear the rescue pack on duty and inspect it to ensure it contains a rescue mask and gloves.
- Do not read, do homework, or engage in other activities when there are swimmers in the pool.
- Avoid using cell phones, computers, or other devices while on scanning duty.
- Scan the area from bottom to top, aiming for a 10x10 second reaction (scan the area in 10 seconds and be able to respond within 10 seconds).
- Limit socializing while on duty; brief interactions for member service are acceptable only if they don't interfere with 10x10 scanning.
12. Familiarize yourself with the Unicoi County Family YMCA Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and your role in it. Attend all staff training sessions and maintain your rescue skills and abilities.
13. Enforce all safety rules. Ask anyone not following the rules to comply, and if they refuse, you may ask them to leave the pool area.
14. Keep accurate records of pool checks, including chlorine levels, pH, bather counts, etc.
15. All lifeguards and instructors are responsible for finding their own coverage if they cannot work; please contact the aquatic director if you are unable to do so.
16. Clean the pool at the end of every shift. Ensure that no trash is left on the bleachers or anywhere on the pool deck.
17. Conduct yourself in a professional manner while at work.
Ymca Careers
Similar Positions
Aquatics Director
YMCA of Greater Flint
Head Swim Coach
Raritan Valley YMCA
Head Swim Coach
Bayside Branch YMCA

What YMCA employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom