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Lifeguard Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

YMCA

Lifeguard-In Training

White Bear Lake, MN · On-site

$16.50/hr

The salary for this position starts at $13.92 hourly (in-training rate. Once certified, team member transitions to Lifeguard salary of $16.50 hourly). We take into consideration an individual ...

YMCA of the USA

Lifeguard-In Training

Minnetonka, MN · On-site

$16.50/hr

The salary for this position is $13.92 hourly (in-training rate). Once certified, team member transitions to Lifeguard salary of $16.50 hourly. We take into consideration an individual's background ...

YMCA

Lifeguard-In Training

Forest Lake, MN

$16.50/hr

A typical shift is about 3 to 4 hours long The salary for this position starts at $13.92 hourly (in-training rate. Once certified, team member transitions to Lifeguard salary of $16.50 hourly). We ...

YMCA

Lifeguard-In Training

Forest Lake, MN · On-site

$16.50/hr

A typical shift is about 3 to 4 hours long The salary for this position starts at $13.92 hourly (in-training rate. Once certified, team member transitions to Lifeguard salary of $16.50 hourly). We ...

YMCA of the USA

Lifeguard-In Training

Forest Lake, MN · On-site

$16.50/hr

A typical shift is about 3 to 4 hours long The salary for this position starts at $13.92 hourly (in-training rate. Once certified, team member transitions to Lifeguard salary of $16.50 hourly). We ...

City of Palm Springs

Lifeguard

Palm Springs, CA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Although the full salary range for this position is provided, appointments are made at the range ... Six (6) months of lifeguard/aquatic experience is preferred; and/or possession of a current ...

Gilroy Gardens Inc

Aquatics Lifeguard

Gilroy, CA · On-site

$17/hr

Aquatics Lifeguard Salary Range $17.00 - $17.00 Hourly Description Our Aquatics team is looking for dynamic individuals who will diligently monitor our Water Oasis play areas and perform all duties ...

ymcametrowash

YMCA Reston - F/T Lifeguard

Reston, VA · On-site

$15.20/hr

Position: Full Time Lifeguard Salary: $15.20 per hour The YMCA of Metropolitan Washington is a leading nonprofit organization that has a strong commitment to nurturing the potential of kids ...

City of Tracy

Lifeguard

Tracy, CA · On-site

$17.02 - $20.69/hr

Lifeguard Print ( Apply  Lifeguard Salary $17.02 - $20.69 Hourly Location 333 Civic Center Plaza, Tracy, CA Job Type Part Time Department Parks & Recreation Opening Date 02/13/2026 FLSA Non-Exempt ...

Indy Gov

Krannert Year Round Lifeguard

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$16.62/hr

Krannert Year Round Lifeguard Print ( Apply  Krannert Year Round Lifeguard Salary $16.62 Hourly Location Krannert Park, IN Job Type Part-time Limited Benefits Job Number 09873 Department DPR ...

City of Las Cruces, NM

Lifeguard

Las Cruces, NM · On-site

$17.40/hr

Lifeguard Print ( Apply  Lifeguard Salary $17.40 Hourly Location 700 N. Main St., Las Cruces, NM Job Type Contract Job Number N014 05-26 DM Department Parks and Recreation Opening Date 05/21/2026 ...

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Lifeguard Salary information

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How much do lifeguard salary jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for lifeguard salary 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 the average salary of a lifeguard?

The average salary of a lifeguard in the United States typically ranges from $11 to $16 per hour, depending on location, employer, and experience. Full-time lifeguards can expect annual earnings between $22,000 and $33,000, while part-time or seasonal lifeguards may earn less. Wages may be higher in metropolitan areas or for those with additional certifications and responsibilities.

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 current certification in CPR, First Aid, and Lifeguarding. Familiarity with rescue equipment, emergency response protocols, and pool management systems is essential. Excellent observation, quick decision-making, and clear communication skills help lifeguards excel in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of swimmers and responding effectively to emergencies.

What are some common challenges lifeguards face on the job and how can they be managed?

Lifeguards often face challenges such as maintaining constant vigilance during long shifts, responding quickly to emergencies, handling difficult or non-compliant patrons, and working outdoors in various weather conditions. These challenges can be managed by taking regular breaks as allowed, staying hydrated, participating in ongoing training and drills, and communicating effectively with both team members and facility management. Building strong teamwork and practicing stress-management techniques also help lifeguards remain alert and effective throughout their shifts.

What is the difference between Lifeguard Salary vs Swim Instructor Salary?

AspectLifeguard SalarySwim Instructor Salary
Required CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Lifeguard CertificationCPR, First Aid, Swim Instructor Certification
Work EnvironmentPublic pools, beaches, water parksSwim schools, community centers, private lessons
Employer & IndustryRecreation, hospitality, public safetyEducation, fitness, recreation

Both lifeguards and swim instructors require CPR and First Aid certifications and work in aquatic environments. Lifeguards focus on safety and rescue at pools and beaches, while swim instructors teach swimming skills. Salary differences depend on experience, location, and employer, but both roles are essential in aquatic safety and education.

How much do lifeguards get paid?

Lifeguards in Michigan typically earn an average hourly wage of around $10 to $15, depending on experience, location, and certification level. The annual salary generally ranges from approximately $20,000 to $31,000 for full-time positions, with many working part-time during summer months or at recreational facilities.

Where do lifeguards get paid the most?

Lifeguards tend to earn the highest salaries in regions with a high cost of living and strong tourism industries, such as popular coastal areas and resort destinations. Factors like experience, certifications, and the type of facility also influence pay rates, with private clubs and luxury resorts often offering higher wages than public pools. Overall, geographic location and employer type are key determinants of lifeguard salaries.
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What states have the most Lifeguard Salary jobs?

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What job categories do people searching Lifeguard Salary jobs look for?

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Lifeguard Salary jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lifeguard Salary job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,458 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Lifeguard-In Training

YMCA

White Bear Lake, MN • On-site

$16.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 22 days ago

YMCA rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 1,991 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

579th of 783 rated non-profit organizations

Job description

Lifeguard In-Training (Age 15+) | White Bear YMCA | Opening + Weekdays | Paid Trainings

At a glance:

We are seeking Lifeguards - In Training, age 15+. Paid training + Lifeguard certification! Flexible schedule, free Y membership and more with this fun role at the Y!

Must be an experienced swimmer with the ability to pass a swim skills assessment.

Schedule:

    • Mornings - Opener start 4:40 am (3 - 4 hour shifts)
    • During the day on weekdays - weekday shifts run until 3:00 pm
    • A typical shift is about 3 to 4 hours long


Pay:

The salary for this position starts at $13.92 hourly (in-training rate. Once certified, team member transitions to Lifeguard salary of $16.50 hourly). We take into consideration an individual's background and experience in determining salary; therefore, base pay offered may vary considerably depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The compensation package includes a wide range of other benefits and earned time off that vary depending on part-time or full-time status.

1. Job Summary:
This Lifeguard (In Training) will shadow certified lifeguards while working to obtain required certification up to but no longer than 90 days of hire date. The incumbent will provide excellent customer service in a safe, enjoyable, and positive atmosphere that promotes member safety and satisfaction in accordance with the YMCA policies and procedures.

2. Essential Functions:

  • Shadow and assist lifeguards and learn programming and emergency procedures.
  • Know, understand, and consistently communicate policies and procedures for the pool, body of water and whirlpool.

3. Relationships:
This position reports to the Aquatics Director/Aquatics Supervisor who reports to Senior Aquatics Management. The incumbent interacts regularly with their supervisor, staff, volunteers, and participants.

4. Qualifications:
Required

  • Minimum age of 15.
  • Certification required within 90 days of hire.
  • Patience and the ability to communicate with all ages and levels of swimmers.
  • Demonstrated ability to swim in shallow and deep water, and tread water (Stage 5 level swimming skill) or physically able to perform all skills required for a lifeguard.
  • Dedicated to member safety and the mission and philosophy of the YMCA

5. Work Conditions:

  • Must remain in the pool area at all times.
  • Ability to support child or adult body weight in the water.
  • Must be able to remain alert with no lapses of consciousness in a warm environment with air temperatures of 80 degrees or higher.
  • Demonstrated ability to recognize and remedy hazardous/dangerous situations.
  • Ability to recognize and react calmly and effectively in hazardous/dangerous situations.
  • Communicate verbally, including projecting voice across distance in normal and loud situations.
  • Perform all physical aspects of the position, including walking, standing, bending, reaching, and lifting up to 50 pounds at a time in a warm pool environment.

6. Additional Notes:
This job description represents the major functions of the position but is not intended to be all-inclusive. The incumbent is also responsible for taking direction from branch representatives in completing projects or performing duties deemed necessary for the branch or Association's success.

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