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Lifeguard Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Lifeguard

Raleigh, NC

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

Position Summary As an Aquatics Lifeguard, you must be safety minded and customer service oriented. You will work in a fast-paced environment and will help to oversee state-of-the-art recreational ...

Lifeguard, Senior

Durham, NC · On-site

$21.35 - $25.95/hr

Duties/Responsibilities Provides general oversight of the lifeguard staff and monitors all activities in the pool area. Assists supervisor and assumes responsibilities in supervisor's absence ...

Lifeguard | East Triangle YMCA

Clayton, NC

$12 - $15.50/hr

Under the supervision of the Aquatics Director, the Lifeguard maintains safe swimming conditions in the pool, deck, and surrounding areas and creates a safe and positive atmosphere that promotes ...

Lifeguard | Kerr Family YMCA

Raleigh, NC

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

Under the supervision of the Aquatics Director, the Lifeguard maintains safe swimming conditions in the pool, deck, and surrounding areas and creates a safe and positive atmosphere that promotes ...

Lifeguard (Seasonal)

Cary, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Position Summary As an Aquatics Lifeguard, you must be safety minded and customer service oriented. You will work in a fast-paced environment and will help to oversee state-of-the-art recreational ...

New

Lifeguard, Senior

NC · On-site

$21.35 - $25.95/hr

Provides general oversight of the lifeguard staff and monitors all activities in the pool area. * Assists supervisor and assumes responsibilities in supervisor's absence, primarily during opening and ...

Lifeguard | Chatham Park YMCA

Pittsboro, NC

$10 - $12.75/hr

Under the supervision of the Aquatics Director, the Lifeguard maintains safe swimming conditions in the pool, deck, and surrounding areas and creates a safe and positive atmosphere that promotes ...

Showing results 21-40

Lifeguard information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$8

$16

$35

How much do lifeguard jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for lifeguard in Raleigh, NC is $16.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.32 and $17.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is working as a lifeguard worth it?

Working as a lifeguard can be rewarding for those who enjoy working outdoors, supervising pools or beaches, and ensuring safety. The job typically requires certification in CPR and first aid, and offers flexible hours, but it may involve physical demands and exposure to weather conditions. Whether it is worth it depends on personal goals and preferences for the role.

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 luxury pools offering better pay than public beaches or community pools.

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.

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 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 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.

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lifeguard jobs in Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of Lifeguard jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What are popular job titles related to Lifeguard jobs in Raleigh, NC?

For Lifeguard jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lifeguard jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Lifeguard jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Lifeguard jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Lifeguard job openings:

Infographic showing various Lifeguard job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 45% Full Time, 46% Part Time, 4% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 3% Summer. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,773 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Lifeguard (Summer Season)

Swim Club Management Group

Durham, NC • On-site

$13 - $16.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Swim Club Management Group rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

76th of 253 rated facilities management


Job description

Swim Club Management Group is looking for seasonal Lifeguards to join our growing team! Swim Club Management Group provides comprehensive pool management, staffing, and renovation services for commercial properties.

At Swim Club Management Group our purpose is to inspire and create happier and healthier moments. As a Lifeguard, you will play a key role in supporting this mission by maintaining a safe and welcoming pool environment through active surveillance, accident prevention, emergency response, and positive guest service.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Monitor pool areas to ensure patron safety and prevent accidents.

  • Enforce pool rules and maintain a safe swimming environment.

  • Recognize and respond to emergencies, including water rescues, first aid, CPR/AED, and executing Emergency Action Plans (EAP).

  • Maintain required certifications and complete ongoing training.

  • Inspect pool facilities and equipment; report safety concerns.

  • Complete required documentation for incidents, rescues, inspections, and water/chemical testing.

  • Assist with pool and deck cleanliness, basic facility upkeep, and water testing/chemical monitoring as directed.

  • Provide friendly, professional customer service to patrons and guests.

  • Direct swimmers during inclement weather or unsafe conditions.

  • Follow all company policies, procedures, and safety guidelines; wear required uniform.

  • Perform other duties as assigned to support facility operations.


SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

  • Meet minimum age requirements for lifeguards per applicable laws (typically 1516+).

  • Current Lifeguard certification (American Red Cross or equivalent), CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer, and First Aid required.

  • Ability to remain alert and continuously monitor the pool area.

  • Physically able to perform rescues, assist distressed individuals (up to 85+ lbs), swim, climb, kneel, crouch, reach, and stand for extended periods.

  • Able to respond quickly in emergencies, including running short distances and performing water rescues.

  • Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions (sun, heat, rain, etc.).

  • Ability to stay calm under pressure with strong communication and interpersonal skills.

  • Customer service or prior pool experience is preferred but not required.


SCHEDULING REQUIREMENTS

  • Flexible availability required, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and potential overtime based on business needs.

  • Weekend and holiday availability during the summer season is essential.

  • Lifeguards are expected to work key summer holidays and surrounding weekends, including: Memorial Day Weekend, Juneteenth, Fourth of July, and Labor Day Weekend.


BENEFITS

By joining the Swim Club Management Group team you will be part of a thriving culture grounded in Safety, Excellence, Passion, Boldness, and Partnership. We foster a fun, friendly, and professional environment dedicated to inspiring and creating happier, healthier moments each day. Additional benefits include:

  • Growth & Advancement Opportunities

  • Company-Sponsored Certification and Training

  • Flexible Scheduling Options

  • Employee Assistance Program

  • Great opportunity to gain first job experience


LOCATION

Swim Club Management Group supports multiple pool locations throughout the area. Lifeguards are assigned to a specific pool location for the season. Assignments are based on staffing needs, your availability, and preferred locations when possible.

This job description is intended to describe the general requirements for the position. It is not a complete statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements. Other duties not listed here may be assigned as necessary. Swim Club Management Group is an equal opportunity employer. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines. Must have a legal right to work in the United States.


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