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Ocean Lifeguard Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of San Diego, CA

Lifeguard I

San Diego, CA · On-site

$26.20 - $31.46/hr

Bay and Ocean Lifeguard positions guard swimmers at public beaches and bays, perform rescues, administer first aid, warn swimmers of dangerous water conditions, enforce aquatic beach regulations and ...

Ocean Breeze Waterpark

Lifeguard

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$15.25/hr

Lifeguard certification classes offered through Ocean Breeze Waterpark. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: * Supervise and provide surveillance of swimmers according to the established protection ...

OCEAN COUNTY YMCA INC

LIFEGUARD

Toms River, NJ · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

LIFEGUARD 2-YR. CERTIFICATION CLASS | Ocean County YMCA Responsibilities: * Maintains active surveillance of the pool area and remain on duty and in an alert state until properly relieved from duty.

The Breakers

Lifeguard- Pool & Beach

Palm Beach, FL · On-site

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

Lifeguard Position We are seeking a detail-oriented Lifeguard to safeguard multiple pools and the ... EMT certification is a plus, as is open ocean experience. Responsibilities: * Monitor swimmers and ...

The Breakers Palm Beach

Lifeguard- Pool & Beach

Palm Beach, FL · On-site

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

We are seeking a detail-oriented Lifeguard to safeguard multiple pools and the beach. The ideal ... EMT certification is a plus, as is open ocean experience. Responsibilities: - Monitor swimmers and ...

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Ocean Lifeguard information

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$9

$24

$68

How much do ocean lifeguard jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for ocean lifeguard 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 an ocean lifeguard?

Ocean lifeguards are trained professionals responsible for ensuring the safety of swimmers, surfers, and beachgoers at oceanfront locations. They monitor beach conditions, perform rescues, provide first aid, and educate the public about water safety. Ocean lifeguards are skilled in swimming, CPR, and emergency response, and they play a crucial role in preventing accidents and responding quickly to emergencies in the water.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an ocean lifeguard?

To thrive as an Ocean Lifeguard, you need strong swimming ability, knowledge of water safety protocols, and valid lifeguard certification such as American Red Cross or USLA. Familiarity with rescue equipment, first aid/CPR/AED systems, and communication devices is typically required. Excellent situational awareness, quick decision-making, and effective communication skills help you respond rapidly and reassure the public. These skills are critical for ensuring swimmer safety, preventing accidents, and providing lifesaving interventions in high-risk ocean environments.

What challenges do ocean lifeguards face during a typical shift?

Ocean lifeguards often contend with unpredictable and rapidly changing water conditions, such as strong currents, shifting tides, and sudden weather changes. They must remain highly alert for long periods while monitoring crowded beaches and responding swiftly to emergencies, all while maintaining clear communication with team members. Interacting with the public to provide safety information and enforce rules can also be challenging, requiring both diplomacy and authority. These factors make adaptability, teamwork, and strong situational awareness essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Ocean Lifeguard vs Beach Patrol Officer?

AspectOcean LifeguardBeach Patrol Officer
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Lifeguard CertificationCPR, First Aid, Lifeguard Certification
Work EnvironmentBeaches, oceanfronts, swimming areasBeaches, coastal areas, public beaches
Employer & IndustryPublic beaches, resorts, aquatic facilitiesMunicipal agencies, coastal authorities
Primary ResponsibilitiesRescue swimmers, monitor water safety, enforce rulesEnforce beach regulations, assist visitors, safety patrols

Both Ocean Lifeguards and Beach Patrol Officers work in beach environments and require similar certifications. However, Ocean Lifeguards focus primarily on water rescues and swimmer safety, while Beach Patrol Officers often handle broader safety enforcement and visitor assistance. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path in beach safety roles.

How do you become an ocean lifeguard?

To become an ocean lifeguard, candidates typically need to be at least 15 or 16 years old, complete a lifeguard training course such as Lifeguard Certification, and pass a swimming and rescue skills test. Certification in CPR and first aid is also usually required, and ongoing training is necessary to maintain certification and stay prepared for rescue situations.
More about Ocean Lifeguard jobs

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What are the most commonly searched types of Ocean Lifeguard jobs?

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What states have the most Ocean Lifeguard jobs?

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

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Ocean Lifeguard jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ocean Lifeguard job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,458 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

CASUAL SEASONAL OPEN WATER LIFEGUARD

City of Vero Beach, FL

Vero Beach, FL • On-site

$16.17/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Salary: $16.17 Hourly
Location : 1053 20th Place, Vero Beach, FL
Job Type: PART-TIME CASUAL
Job Number: 00940
Department: RECREATION
Opening Date: 07/20/2026
PRIMARY FUNCTIONS
Under general supervision, maintains safety of the guarded ocean and aquatic facility areas through alert observation of swimmers, bathers, water/weather conditions and performs rescues and pre-hospital emergency medical procedures; and performs related duties as assigned.
PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES
The following duties have been provided as examples of the essential types of work performed by positions within this job classification. Management reserves the right to add, modify, change or rescind work assignments as needed.
  • Observes swimmers, bathers, weather and ocean conditions to maintain safety of guarded area.
  • Takes preventative actions to maintain safety of area guarded by warning against dangerous practices and keeping weak swimmers out of dangerous situations.
  • Responds to water emergencies; rescues and assists patrons in the water, provides first aid and pre-hospital emergency care as necessary.
  • Participates in physical training and continuing education to maintain proficiency.
  • Educates patrons in facility rules and regulations and assists in enforcement actions.
  • Completes required reports.
  • Maintains cleanliness of work area and equipment.
  • Observes standard operating procedures and safety practices.

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES AND SKILLS
  • Knowledge of lifesaving practices and procedures.
  • Knowledge of the ocean environment including hazardous currents and marine predators.
  • Knowledge of City codes, rules, regulations and protocols pertaining to area of responsibility.
  • Knowledge of public relations practices and techniques.
  • Knowledge of occupational hazards and safety practices applicable to working as a lifeguard.
  • Ability to safely operate assigned vehicles, tools and equipment.
  • Ability to perform all lifeguard duties including rescues, emergency pre-hospital care, first aid, surveillance and public relations.
  • Ability to remain calm in emotionally stressful situations and to handle frightened or injured persons in the water.
  • Ability to follow written and oral instructions.
  • Ability to maintain accurate records and generate periodic reports.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, co-workers, and the general public.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
OTHER JOB CHARACTERISTICS:
  • Exposure to potential physical harm, infectious disease, hazardous chemicals, marine predators and extreme weather conditions.
  • Ability to maintain the physical standards prescribed by the City.
  • Ability to lift and carry heavy or bulky items occasionally (80-100 lbs.) under difficult conditions.
TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT:
  • ATV's, two-way radio, rescue buoys, cans and tubes, oxygen, Automated External Defibrillator, etc.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Completion of valid Lifeguard training/certification including Lifeguard First Aid/CPR, or equivalent level of training. One (1) year of experience as an ocean lifeguard is preferred or completion of City of Vero Beach Lifeguard training program. Must be able to swim 500 meters or 550 yards under 10 minutes and ½ mile run under 4 minutes.
LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS:
Possession of valid Florida Driver's License, Lifeguard training certification including Lifeguard First Aid/CPR, or equivalent level of training.
The City of Vero Beach provides a wide array of benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Our comprehensive benefit programs include medical, dental and vision plans; life insurance coverage for you and your dependents; employee long term disability coverage; flexible spending plans for medical reimbursement and dependent care; an employee assistance program for you and your dependents; a voluntary 401a Retirement Plan with generous employer contribution, and voluntary 457(b) tax-deferred compensation and ROTH IRA plans to supplement your retirement. We also provide an extensive wellness program that includes health fairs and much more!

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