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Open Lifeguard Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City of San Diego

Lifeguard I

San Diego, CA · On-site

$26.20 - $31.46/hr

JOB INFORMATION LIFEGUARD I CANDIDATES MUST APPLY BEFORE TAKING THE PERFORMANCE TEST. ONCE ... The Introduction to Open Water Lifeguarding course will be valid for two calendar years from the ...

City of Piedmont

Lifeguard II

Oakland, CA · On-site

$21 - $26/hr

Lifeguard II is a great fit if you've logged 250+ hours guarding and are ready to mentor newer guards, open/close, and help lead shifts.STARTING PAY: $21/hour (earning up to $26/hour with annual ...

City of Richmond (CA)

Lifeguard

Richmond, CA · On-site

$21.67 - $25.09/hr

Both pools are open year-round. During rotations, Lifeguards attentively observe swimmers, ensure compliance with pool rules, perform customer service functions at the front window, and teach youth ...

GovernmentJobs.com

Lifeguard

Richmond, CA · On-site

$25.09/hr

Both pools are open year-round. During rotations, Lifeguards attentively observe swimmers, ensure compliance with pool rules, perform customer service functions at the front window, and teach youth ...

City of Morgan Hill, CA

Lifeguard

Morgan Hill, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $19.50/hr

Community Services Opening Date: 08/04/2026 Description Lifeguard $17.50 per hour for High School Students $19.50 per hour for High School Graduates Year-Round, Part-Time Position (Temporary, Non ...

City of Calabasas, CA

Lifeguard

Calabasas, CA · On-site

$21 - $27/hr

Community Services Department Opening Date: 05/11/2023 Description Under the supervision of the Head Lifeguard and Assistant Aquatics Coordinator, performs basic lifeguard duties, general pool ...

City of Calabasas

Lifeguard

Calabasas, CA · On-site

$21 - $27/hr

Description Under the supervision of the Head Lifeguard and Assistant Aquatics Coordinator ... Maintain open lines of communication. Training and Experience: No prior experience necessary.

Premier Aquatics

Lifeguard

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

As a lifeguard at one of our hotels in Anaheim, your primary focus is ensuring visitor safety, all ... And let's not forget, you're also the expert on smooth opening and closing procedures. A perfect ...

City of Sunnydale

Lifeguard

El Segundo, CA

$10 - $20/hr

Please do not apply as this is not a true job opening. We are looking to recruit an observant Lifeguard to ensure the safety of visitors to our aquatic facility. The Lifeguard will explain safety ...

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Open Lifeguard information

See California salary details

$9

$16

$36

How much do open lifeguard jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for open lifeguard in California is $16.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.51 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Open Lifeguard, you need strong swimming ability, knowledge of water safety protocols, and current lifeguard certification (such as Red Cross or equivalent). Familiarity with rescue equipment, first aid/CPR/AED certifications, and the ability to use communication systems are typically required. Excellent observation skills, quick decision-making, and calmness under pressure are essential soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensuring the safety of swimmers and providing effective emergency response in open water environments.

What is an open lifeguard?

Open lifeguards are trained professionals responsible for ensuring the safety of swimmers and visitors at open water locations, such as beaches, lakes, and rivers. Their duties include monitoring water conditions, performing rescues, administering first aid, and educating the public about water safety. Open lifeguards are skilled in handling the unique challenges of natural water environments, including currents, waves, and changing weather. They often hold certifications in lifeguarding, CPR, and first aid, and must remain vigilant to respond quickly to emergencies.

Can you get a job as an open lifeguard?

Open lifeguard positions are available at pools, beaches, and water parks, typically requiring certification in lifeguarding, CPR, and first aid. Applicants usually need to be at least 15 or 16 years old and pass a swimming and rescue skills test. Job availability depends on local demand and seasonal factors.

Where do open lifeguards make the most money?

Open lifeguards tend to earn higher wages in regions with higher living costs or where there is greater demand for aquatic safety, such as popular tourist destinations or affluent communities. Factors like certifications, experience, and the type of facility also influence earning potential, with private clubs and resorts often offering higher pay than public pools. Overall, wages vary widely based on location and employer.

What is the difference between Open Lifeguard vs Pool Lifeguard?

AspectOpen LifeguardPool Lifeguard
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Lifeguard CertificationCPR, First Aid, Lifeguard Certification
Work EnvironmentBeaches, lakes, outdoor aquatic venuesIndoor or outdoor pools, aquatic centers
Employer & IndustryPublic beaches, outdoor recreation facilitiesPublic and private pools, aquatic clubs

Both Open Lifeguards and Pool Lifeguards require similar certifications and work in aquatic environments, but Open Lifeguards typically oversee outdoor natural water bodies like beaches and lakes, while Pool Lifeguards work mainly in indoor or outdoor pools. The roles are similar in responsibilities and qualifications, with the main difference being the setting.

What are some common challenges open lifeguards face during peak season, and how can they best prepare?

During peak season, Open Lifeguards often encounter large crowds, increased swimmer activity, and unpredictable weather conditions. These factors can make it challenging to maintain constant vigilance and quick response times. To prepare, lifeguards should stay physically fit, participate in regular safety drills, and familiarize themselves with emergency protocols and crowd management techniques. Effective communication with team members and proactive scanning of the area are also essential to ensure the safety of all swimmers.
What are popular job titles related to Open Lifeguard jobs in California? For Open Lifeguard jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Open Lifeguard jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Open Lifeguard jobs in California are:
Open Lifeguard jobs near you
Infographic showing various Open Lifeguard job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,305 per year, or $17 per hour.

Lifeguard - Pleasant Hill Y (full-time opener)

YMCA

Pleasant Hill, CA

$19.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

YMCA rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 1,987 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

570th of 771 rated non-profit organizations

Job description

We are specifically looking for a lifeguard with early AM availability (4:45 AM start time, weekdays) to join our aquatics team as a full-time (35-40 hours/week) opening lifeguard (hourly, non-exempt). Reliable transportation required. Strong customer service, communication, punctuality, and lifeguard skills needed. Experience with pool chemistry a plus. Must be 18+. Recertification opportunities available.

We are seeking enthusiastic and experienced aquatics staff to provide our members with a safe, clean, fun and therapeutic aquatic environment. We believe that swimming is an essential skill for all ages and staff provide essential support for children and adults to achieve their personal goals.

POSITION SUMMARY: These general functions will be carried out in keeping with the Goals, Mission and Policies of the YMCA of the East Bay. Maintain safe swimming conditions in the pool, deck and surrounding areas. Create a safe and positive atmosphere that promotes member safety and engagement. Respond to emergencies as required.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  1. Prevent incidents by maintaining active surveillance of the pool area at all times using American Red Cross standards such as constant scanning, shifting surveillance positions and uninterrupted focus.
  2. Know and review all emergency procedures and respond to emergency situations immediately in accordance with YMCA policies and standards. Complete related reports promptly and accurately.   
  3. Maintain effective, positive relationships with members, participants and other staff.
  4. Know, understand, and consistently apply safety rules, policies and guidelines for the pool and aquatic areas, such as maintaining appropriate lifeguard to swimmer ratios.
  5. Wear appropriate attire that demonstrates lifeguarding role and equip self for all safety and rescue functions.
  6. Check rescue equipment and pool for hazardous conditions, and promptly report problems.
  7. Perform chemical testing, when not guarding, as required following safety standards and take appropriate action, including accurate record maintenance.
  8. Attend all staff meetings and in-service trainings.
  9. Support special events, assist in other areas, and perform other duties as required.
 
WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
  • Physically perform all skills required of a lifeguard.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • 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
  • Able to hear noises and distress signals in the aquatic environment, including in the water and anywhere around the zone of responsibility. Ability to understand and respond in English
  • Meet and maintain the strength and lifting requirements as required by the lifeguard certification. Able to lift and move 30 lbs. of pool equipment
 
LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES:
  • Inclusion
  • Functional Expertise
  • Communication and Influence
 
QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Certifications: YMCA or American Red Cross Lifeguard CPR, AED & First Aid or equivalent
  • Ability to maintain certification-level of physical and mental readiness  
  • At least 18 years of age 

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