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Lifeguard Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Lifeguard

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

As a lifeguard, you'll help keep patrons safe by supervising swimmers, responding to emergencies, enforcing rules, and providing excellent customer service. It's a great opportunity to gain valuable ...

LIFEGUARD

Homewood, IL · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

The lifeguard is responsible for performing the duties as outlined in the analysis. He/she/they is a part-time employee working swim lessons each week during the Fall, Winter, and Spring sessions.

Lifeguard

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

As a lifeguard, you'll help keep patrons safe by supervising swimmers, responding to emergencies, enforcing rules, and providing excellent customer service. It's a great opportunity to gain valuable ...

LIFEGUARD

Homewood, IL · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

The lifeguard is responsible for performing the duties as outlined in the analysis. He/she/they is a part-time employee working swim lessons each week during the Fall, Winter, and Spring sessions.

Lifeguard

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

As a lifeguard, you'll help keep patrons safe by supervising swimmers, responding to emergencies, enforcing rules, and providing excellent customer service. It's a great opportunity to gain valuable ...

LIFEGUARD

Orland Park, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

As a Lifeguard, you will be responsible for overseeing all aquatic activities, enforcing safety protocols, and providing exceptional Member service in a luxury Club environment. Requirements: Key ...

PT Lifeguard

Palos Hills, IL · On-site

$15.50/hr

Lifeguard according to Facility, State Code and Lifeguard Training standards * Supervise proper use of swimming pools along with supporting facilities * Maintain current certifications in lifeguard ...

Lifeguard

Highland Park, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $18.25/hr

Job Summary The Lifeguard is responsible for ensuring the safety of patrons in a pool or lakefront facility by scanning and monitoring swim zones and preventing & responding to emergencies.

PT Lifeguard

Palos Hills, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Lifeguard according to Facility, State Code and Lifeguard Training standards * Supervise proper use of swimming pools along with supporting facilities * Maintain current certifications in lifeguard ...

PT Lifeguard

Palos Hills, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Lifeguard according to Facility, State Code and Lifeguard Training standards * Supervise proper use of swimming pools along with supporting facilities * Maintain current certifications in lifeguard ...

Lifeguard

Highland Park, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $18.25/hr

Job Summary The Lifeguard is responsible for ensuring the safety of patrons in a pool or lakefront facility by scanning and monitoring swim zones and preventing & responding to emergencies.

Lifeguard

Deerfield, IL · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Midtown is looking for a Lifeguard to watch over our pools and ensure the safety of our aquatics areas. The Position As an integral part of the aquatics team, our Lifeguards inspire members through ...

LifeGuard

East Dundee, IL · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Lifeguards at SV are responsible for: • Communicate safety rules, regulations and recommendations with guests • Keep supervision/manager informed of situations related to department operation and ...

Lifeguard

Oak Park, IL · On-site

$15.75/hr

The Lifeguard is a Part-Time year-round position. We offer competitive compensation, PTO and an employee discount for part-time employees. Job Purpose: The Lifeguard ensures the safety of patrons of ...

Lifeguard

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20.75/hr

The Lifeguard is responsible for ensuring the safety of all members and guests while maintaining a clean, orderly, and well-maintained pool environment. This role requires strong attention to detail ...

Lifeguard

Chesterton, IN · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Follow lifeguard rotation positions assigned. * Follow proper procedures for emergencies or relief. * Maintain cleaning duties of the shower facilities and office. * Perform daily check out list.

Lifeguard

Oak Park, IL · On-site

$15.75/hr

The Lifeguard is a Part-Time year-round position. We offer competitive compensation, PTO and an employee discount for part-time employees. Job Purpose: The Lifeguard ensures the safety of patrons of ...

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Lifeguard information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$17

$38

How much do lifeguard jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for lifeguard in Chicago, IL is $17.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lifeguard?

Lifeguards are trained professionals responsible for ensuring the safety of people in and around aquatic environments like pools, beaches, and water parks. Their primary duties include monitoring swimmers, preventing accidents, providing first aid, and performing rescues when necessary. Lifeguards must maintain vigilance, possess strong swimming skills, and often hold certifications in lifesaving techniques and CPR. They also enforce rules to prevent dangerous behavior and educate the public about water safety.

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, first aid and CPR certification, and keen observation skills. Familiarity with rescue equipment, communication radios, and emergency response protocols is typically required. Alertness, quick decision-making, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for ensuring safety and responding appropriately to emergencies. These skills and qualities are essential for preventing accidents, providing immediate assistance, and maintaining a safe environment for all patrons.

What does a lifeguard do?

A lifeguard monitors swimmers at the beach or in a pool, watches for hazards, and strives to maintain safety. As a lifeguard, your responsibilities include supervising swimmers and enforcing safety rules. Your job duties can also include organizing group activities, maintaining equipment, cleaning pools, and teaching swimming lessons to swimmers of all ages. You can find lifeguard jobs at public and private beaches, lakes, public swimming pools, hotel or community swimming pools, and public and private schools from grade school to university level.

How does a lifeguard typically collaborate with other staff members during busy periods at a pool or beach?

During peak times, lifeguards work closely with other lifeguards, pool managers, and facility staff to maintain safety and efficient operations. They often rotate surveillance zones to stay alert, communicate via radios or hand signals, and coordinate responses to emergencies. Effective teamwork ensures that all areas are monitored without gaps and that assistance is immediately available if an incident occurs. Collaboration also extends to enforcing rules, providing customer service, and participating in routine safety drills.

What is the difference between Lifeguard vs Swim Instructor?

AspectLifeguardSwim Instructor
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Lifeguard CertificationCPR, First Aid, Swim Instructor Certification
Work EnvironmentPools, beaches, water parksPools, swim schools, community centers
Primary ResponsibilitiesEnsure safety, prevent drowning, rescueTeach swimming skills, improve technique

While both roles require CPR and First Aid certifications and are based in aquatic environments, lifeguards focus on safety and rescue, whereas swim instructors concentrate on teaching swimming skills. The roles often overlap but serve different primary purposes within aquatic facilities.

Where do lifeguards make the most money?

Lifeguards tend to earn higher wages in regions with a high cost of living, popular tourist destinations, or private clubs. Factors such as experience, certifications, and the type of facility also influence earning potential, with some private or exclusive pools offering better pay than public beaches or community pools.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lifeguard jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Lifeguard jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Lifeguard jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Lifeguard job openings:

Infographic showing various Lifeguard job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% As Needed, 20% Full Time, 60% Part Time, and 10% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,881 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

$16 - $18/hr

Temporary

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Seasonal, Non-Exempt
Pay: $16-$18/hour
Join the Park District as a lifeguard-no experience needed! We'll provide all the training you need to learn lifesaving skills, build confidence, and become part of a supportive, energetic team. As a lifeguard, you'll help keep patrons safe by supervising swimmers, responding to emergencies, enforcing rules, and providing excellent customer service. It's a great opportunity to gain valuable experience, stay engaged, and make a real impact in your community while enjoying the summer weather.
Hours
Normal work week hours vary based on availabiliyt and need with shift being: afternoon (12-4pm), evening (4-9pm), and weekends. During the off-season, lifeguards are required to work at least 1 weekday and 1 weekend shift per week along with 4 hours of in-service training per month.
Education, Experience and Training:
  • Minimum age of 16 years old required
  • CPR/AED/First Aid certification required (training available)
  • StarGuard Elite lifeguard license preferred (training available)
  • Have knowledge of water safety practices and usage of water safety equipment.

Essential Job Functions
  • Must wear provided staff shirt, swimsuit, hip-pack and seal, and whistle while on duty. Jewelry and watches are not to be worn while on duty.
  • Perform lifeguard duties as trained by StarGuard guidelines, including but not limited to:
    • Maintain the proper 10/20 protection rule at all times while on duty. This includes scanning the water in a systematic way, at all times, with no distraction or interruption from other tasks. And no other assigned tasks should intrude.
    • Perform proper bottom scan of the pool and surface before, during and after rotation.
    • Must remain in station, consistently scanning the pool and never leaving zone and pool unguarded, unless authorized by supervisor on duty.
    • Prepared at all times to rescue, resuscitate and give first-aid to drowning or injured persons.
    • Must be familiar with the location and proper use of all emergency equipment and first-aid supplies without further endangering the injured person
    • Only conversing with patrons related to the job at hand and without taking eyes off pool.
    • Performing proper five-minute strategy while in rotation and maintaining proper upright lifeguarding posture.
    • Follow whistle protocol.
    • Know and enforce all pool rules and regulations by using common sense and judgment.
    • Know and follow all emergency action procedures (EAP) in case of an accident or drowning.
    • Know lifeguard rotation at assigned pool and responsibilities of each lifeguard station.
  • Provide a safe, healthy, enjoyable experience for all swimmers by: enforcing pool rules in a firm but pleasant way, being helpful and friendly to patrons, and being aware and alert at all times while on the job.
  • Perform daily assignments for cleaning of the facility.
  • Report any broken safety or mechanical equipment to the manager or assistant manager immediately.
  • Perform rescues and administer proper care and first aid if an accident or injury occurs.
  • Responsible for providing updated availability each month to the Aquatic Manager when requested.
  • If unable to work a scheduled shift, lifeguard must notify immediate supervisor on duty and is responsible for finding a qualified substitute to cover their shift.
    • Be flexible regarding scheduling of hours due to rentals, swim meets, special events, etc.
  • Report to work 15 minutes prior to the start of their shift.
  • Must attend and participate in four hours of in-service trainings per month.
  • Review and practice lifeguard skills while on duty.
  • Lifeguards must follow and respect the authority of the Head Lifeguards and Pool Managers on duty.
  • Must report to Head Lifeguard and/or Pool Manager on duty at end of shift and before leaving.
  • Must be able to have clear and direct communication between patrons and all staff members, including but not limited to Lifeguards, Head Lifeguards, Pool Managers, and Aquatic Manager.
  • Exhibit a positive public image through adherence to uniform policies while on duty.
  • Provide professional, appropriate, and respectful customer service to all Oak Brook Park District patrons.
  • Perform and complete all assigned tasks given by supervisor.
  • Report bathers with open sores, skin disease, inflamed eyes or any other condition that could endanger the health of others to pool manager on duty.
  • Use Preventive Lifeguarding by reminding swimmers of the pool's rules.
  • Resolve problems with patrons before they get more serious.
  • Perform the job in a safe manner and in compliance with the District policies, procedures, workand safety rules, and the employee handbook.
  • Focus on welcoming diversity, encouraging inclusion and creating equity for all.
  • Support the District's safety initiative including adhering to policies and procedures, performingyour job in a safe manner, attending required training, seeking additional training as needed, promptly reporting accidents/incidents, and proactively addressing hazards in the workplace.

Benefits:
All Oak Brook Park District employees benefit from a work-life atmosphere, a complimentary Central Park Campus Membership, discounts on programming, and continuing education opportunities.
THE OAK BROOK PARK DISTRICT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Employment with the Park District is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, age, color, sex, religion, veteran status, national origin, sexual orientation, disability or any other legally protected status. Those applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application and/or interview process should notify our ADA coordinator, at (630) 645-9527.
Bilingual Candidates Encouraged to Apply.