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Lifeguard Minimum Wage Jobs (NOW HIRING)

YMCA

Troy Pool: Head Lifeguard

Troy, NY

$17.42/hr

Troy Pool: Head Lifeguard Get Paid When You Need It With our Early Wage Access (EWA) program ... Minimum two years of experience as a swim instructor and lifeguard. Minimum one year in a ...

Capital District YMCA

Troy Pool: Head Lifeguard

Troy, NY · On-site

$17.42/hr

Get Paid When You Need It With our Early Wage Access (EWA) program, access a portion of your earned ... Minimum two years of experience as a swim instructor and lifeguard. * Minimum one year in a ...

Renton School District 403

Lifeguard

Renton, WA

$16 - $20.50/hr

Position Information: Hours Per Day Varies Days Per Week Varies Pay Level Minimum Wage Hourly Pay Schedule American Red Cross Certifications Required * Lifeguard Training/First Aid * CPR/AED for the ...

Renton School District 403

Lifeguard

Renton, WA · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

Hours Per Day Varies Days Per Week Varies Pay Level Minimum Wage Hourly Pay Schedule American Red Cross Certifications Required * Lifeguard Training/First Aid * CPR/AED for the Lifeguard Please see ...

Renton School District 403

Lifeguard

Renton, WA

$16 - $20.50/hr

Hours Per Day Varies Days Per Week Varies Pay Level Minimum Wage See Hourly Salary Schedule American Red Cross Certifications Required * Lifeguard Training/First Aid * CPR/AED for the Lifeguard ...

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Lifeguard Minimum Wage information

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$9

$24

$68

How much do lifeguard minimum wage jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for lifeguard minimum wage 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.

Is 22 too old to be a lifeguard?

Lifeguard positions typically do not have an upper age limit, and being 22 is generally considered a suitable age for the role. Success depends on meeting certification requirements such as CPR and lifeguard training, as well as physical fitness and swimming skills.

What are the main challenges faced by lifeguards working at minimum wage, and how can they overcome them?

Lifeguards earning minimum wage often face challenges such as high responsibility for safety, long hours in varying weather conditions, and the need for constant vigilance with limited breaks. To overcome these challenges, it's important to maintain strong communication with your team, stay physically fit, and participate in regular training sessions to keep skills sharp. Building a supportive relationship with supervisors can also help address concerns about workload and working conditions, ensuring both personal well-being and a safe environment for patrons.

How much do 15 year old lifeguards make?

The minimum wage for 15-year-old lifeguards typically aligns with the federal or state minimum wage, which is often lower than adult rates. Many employers pay around $8 to $10 per hour, but this can vary based on location, experience, and certifications such as CPR and lifeguard training.

What is the difference between Lifeguard Minimum Wage vs Swim Instructor Minimum Wage?

AspectLifeguard Minimum WageSwim Instructor Minimum Wage
Required CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Lifeguard CertificationCPR, First Aid, Swim Instructor Certification
Work EnvironmentPools, beaches, aquatic facilitiesPools, swim schools, community centers
Employer & Industry UsageRecreation, public safety, sports facilitiesEducation, fitness, recreation centers

While both lifeguards and swim instructors work in aquatic environments and require CPR and First Aid certifications, lifeguards focus on monitoring safety and preventing accidents, earning a minimum wage that often reflects entry-level safety roles. Swim instructors, on the other hand, teach swimming skills and may earn higher wages depending on experience and certifications. The main difference lies in their responsibilities and the specific certifications required.

How much does a 16 year old make as a lifeguard?

A 16-year-old working as a lifeguard typically earns minimum wage, which varies by state but generally ranges from $8 to $15 per hour. Certification in lifeguarding and CPR is usually required, and pay may increase with experience or additional certifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lifeguard, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lifeguard, you need strong swimming ability, knowledge of water safety, and certification in CPR and first aid, often obtained through organizations like the American Red Cross. Familiarity with rescue equipment, emergency protocols, and communication devices is typically required. Alertness, quick decision-making, and clear communication are essential soft skills for ensuring swimmer safety. These competencies are crucial for preventing accidents, responding effectively to emergencies, and maintaining a safe aquatic environment.

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 monitor the water within 20 seconds. This helps ensure quick response times to potential emergencies and maintains constant vigilance during their shift. Proper training and regular practice are essential to effectively implement this rule.

What is the minimum wage for lifeguards?

The minimum wage for lifeguards depends on the state or city where they work, as minimum wage laws vary by location. Generally, lifeguards must be paid at least the federal minimum wage, which is currently $7.25 per hour, but many states and municipalities have set higher minimums. Some employers, such as public pools or beaches, may offer higher pay rates based on experience or certifications. It's important for lifeguards to check local labor laws and job postings to understand the specific pay rates in their area.
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What states have the most Lifeguard Minimum Wage jobs? States with the most job openings for Lifeguard Minimum Wage jobs include:
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Lifeguard Minimum Wage jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lifeguard Minimum Wage job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Part Time, and 40% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,458 per year, or $24.7 per hour.
Lifeguard (Incentive Opportunity)

Lifeguard (Incentive Opportunity)

Plus One Health Management

Beaverton, OR • On-site

$15 - $22/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

This position is eligible for a recruiting incentive of up to $500.
Job Overview:
We are currently seeking part-time Lifeguards to service an indoor swimming pool for a high-end retail company's headquarters in Beaverton, Oregon.
Responsibilities:
  • Provide a safe and enjoyable environment for the guests of the swimming pool.
  • Coach and support classes and programs as needed.
  • Provide emergency services as needed.
  • Enforce all policies regarding proper use of pool and pool area.
  • Maintain cleanliness and proper presentation of pool area.

Requirements:
  • Six months experience as a lifeguard
  • Minimum High-School diploma or equivalent (college attendance preferred)
  • Current lifeguard certification. and CPR certification
  • Demonstration of organizational, communication and service oriented skills

About Us:
Plus One, part of the Optum Workplace Well-being portfolio of services, provides fitness and well-being services to clients across a broad range of industries, driving employee engagement in health and wellness programs. Our services include fitness, nutrition, ergonomics, wellness coaching and health promotion. Our team members believe that the most effective way to help people adopt a healthier lifestyle is through personal connections infused with hospitality, empathy and a lot of fun.
Perks of working at Plus One, an Optum company*:
Health and financial:
  • Medical plan choices with Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) options
  • Dental and Vision coverage plans
  • 401(k) Retirement & Savings Plan
  • Life Insurance (team member, spouse and dependents)
  • Short and Long Term Disability Plans
  • Accident & Critical Illness Insurance
  • Transportation and Parking Plans
  • Paid parental leave

Well-being:
  • Paid time off
  • Wellness rewards program
  • Free memberships to various fitness facilities and wellness subscriptions
  • 24/7 health and wellness support through the Employee Assistance program
  • Entertainment and consumer discounts
  • Dedication to ensuring a cohesive and inclusive culture led by an internal diversity, equity and inclusion council

Growth and development:
  • Free professional development courses through internal learning management systems
  • Discounted certifications through industry leading agencies
  • Free CPR/AED certifications
  • Free continuing education courses and credits Employee Referral Reward program

*Please note, some of the benefits listed above are only available to team members who work full time hours.
Equal opportunity statement
Diversity creates a healthier atmosphere. Plus One, an Optum Company is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.
For residents of California, Colorado, Connecticut, New York City, and Washington only: The hourly rate for this position ranges from $15 to $22. Pay is based on several factors including, but not limited to, education, work experience, certifications, geographic differentials, and other business and organizational needs. In addition to the hourly rate, Plus One offers a comprehensive benefits package (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements), which includes health insurance, life and disability benefits, 401(k) plan, and paid time off. Plus One, an Optum Company, adheres to all federal, state, and local minimum wage requirements.

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