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Lifeguard Trainer Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

Lifeguard Trainer information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$5

$14

$21

How much do lifeguard trainer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for lifeguard trainer in Springfield, MO is $14.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.12 and $16.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a certified lifeguard trainer?

To become a certified lifeguard trainer, you typically need to hold current lifeguard certification, complete a lifeguard instructor course approved by a recognized organization such as the American Red Cross or YMCA, and pass both written and practical exams. Additional requirements may include a minimum age, CPR certification, and experience as a lifeguard.

What is the difference between Lifeguard Trainer vs Lifeguard?

AspectLifeguard TrainerLifeguard
CertificationsRed Cross Lifeguard, CPR/AED, First Aid, Lifeguard InstructorRed Cross Lifeguard, CPR/AED, First Aid
Work EnvironmentTraining sessions, classrooms, aquatic facilitiesSwimming pools, beaches, water parks
Primary RoleTrain and certify new lifeguards, conduct safety coursesMonitor water safety, prevent drownings, respond to emergencies

While both roles require lifeguard certifications, a Lifeguard Trainer focuses on teaching and certifying others, whereas a Lifeguard primarily supervises water areas to ensure safety and respond to emergencies.

What is a lifeguard trainer?

Lifeguard Trainers are certified professionals who teach and certify individuals to become lifeguards. They provide instruction on water rescue techniques, CPR, first aid, and emergency response procedures. Lifeguard Trainers ensure that future lifeguards meet the necessary standards for safety and competency. They may work for organizations such as the American Red Cross or local swimming facilities, conducting both classroom and practical training sessions.

Where do lifeguard trainers make the most money?

Lifeguard trainers tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for aquatic safety training, such as urban areas or popular tourist destinations. Experience, certifications, and the type of facility also influence earning potential, with private clubs and specialized training centers often offering higher pay. Overall, salaries vary widely based on location and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by lifeguard trainers when teaching new lifeguards, and how can these be addressed?

Lifeguard Trainers often encounter challenges such as varying skill levels among trainees, maintaining engagement during repetitive drills, and ensuring everyone fully understands critical safety protocols. Addressing these issues involves using a variety of teaching techniques, offering individualized feedback, and incorporating real-life scenarios to keep sessions dynamic and relevant. Trainers can also foster a supportive learning environment that encourages questions and peer collaboration, which helps new lifeguards build confidence and competence.

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

To thrive as a Lifeguard Trainer, you need strong swimming ability, lifeguarding experience, and current certifications such as Lifeguard Instructor from recognized organizations like the American Red Cross. Familiarity with training materials, rescue equipment, and first aid/CPR/AED systems is essential. Exceptional communication, leadership, and motivational skills help trainers effectively teach and inspire trainees. These skills ensure lifeguard trainees are well-prepared to respond to emergencies and maintain safety in aquatic environments.
What are popular job titles related to Lifeguard Trainer jobs in Springfield, MO? For Lifeguard Trainer jobs in Springfield, MO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Lifeguard Trainer job openings in Springfield, MO as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 35% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 12% Temporary, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 95% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,370 per year, or $14.6 per hour.

Lifeguard - Pat Jones YMCA

Ozarks Regional YMCA

Springfield, MO • On-site

$15/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Description
Lifeguard
REPORTS TO: Aquatics Director
STATUS: Part-time /Non-Exempt
OUR CULTURE:
Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. At the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger, beginning with you.
POSITION SUMMARY:
This position supports the work of Y, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The Lifeguard creates a safe and positive atmosphere that welcomes and respects all individuals while promoting and maintaining safe swimming conditions in the pool, deck and surrounding areas in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Be knowledgeable and adhere to Safety Policies, Procedures and Emergency Response Plans. Always keeping Safety at the forefront of your mind.
  • Maintains active surveillance of the pool area.
  • Knows and reviews all emergency procedures and responds to emergency situations immediately in accordance with YMCA policies, procedures, and the "safe-in-six" model; completes related reports as required.
  • Responds to challenges with possible solutions in a timely manner.
  • Knows, understands, and consistently applies safety rules, policies, and guidelines for the pool and aquatic area.
  • Remains calm and objective when under pressure or when challenged by others.
  • Maintains accurate records as required by the YMCA and/or the state health department code.
  • Performs equipment checks and ensures appropriate equipment is available as needed.
  • Checking the pool for hazardous conditions when arriving
  • Performs chemical testing when not guarding, as required, and takes appropriate action.
  • All other duties as assigned.

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
  • Child abuse prevention training and other organization trainings on first date of hire date
  • Ability to maintain certification-level physical and mental readiness
  • Must demonstrate lifeguard skills in accordance with YMCA standards

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
This is a safety-sensitive position: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Physically perform all skills required of a lifeguard.
  • Hear noises and distress signals in the aquatic environment, including in the water and anywhere around the zone of responsibility.
  • Remain alert with no lapses of consciousness.
  • See and observe all sections of an assigned zone or area of responsibility.
  • Ability to perform all physical aspects of the position for long periods of time, including walking, standing, bending, squatting, and kneeling.
  • Visual ability to identify and respond to environmental and other hazards related to the activity.
  • The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to high.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Requirements
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
  • 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

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
  • This is a safety-sensitive position: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Physically perform all skills required of a lifeguard.
  • Hear noises and distress signals in the aquatic environment, including in the water and anywhere around the zone of responsibility.
  • Remain alert with no lapses of consciousness.
  • See and observe all sections of an assigned zone or area of responsibility.
  • Ability to perform all physical aspects of the position for long periods of time, including walking, standing, bending, squatting, and kneeling.
  • Visual ability to identify and respond to environmental and other hazards related to the activity.
  • The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to high.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.