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Open Lifeguard Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Alexandria Area YMCA

Opening Lifeguard

Alexandria, MN · On-site

$15 - $16.50/hr

The YMCA is hiring Lifeguards for our aquatics team! If you are responsible, energetic, and enjoy working with people of all ages, we'd love to have you join us this summer. Position Responsibilities

Richfield Public Schools

Lifeguard

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$16.26 - $18.80/hr

Assisting with lessons, open swim times, in-service trainings, and special events. * Creating a ... Lifeguards must be reliable, courteous, and ready to act. Minimum Certification: * American Red ...

YMCA of the USA

Lifeguard

White Bear Lake, MN · On-site

$16.50/hr

Description Lifeguard | White Bear Area YMCA | Morning Opener + Weekdays | $16.50 per hour If not currently certified, please apply to our available Lifeguard - In Training Opportunities At a glance:

YMCA

Lifeguard

Elk River, MN · On-site

$16.50/hr

Lifeguard | Elk River YMCA | Weekdays and opening shifts | $16.50 per hour If not currently certified, please apply to our available Lifeguard - In Training Opportunities At a glance: We are seeking ...

YMCA

Lifeguard

Shoreview, MN · On-site

$16.50/hr

Lifeguard | Shoreview YMCA | Morning Opener + Weekdays | $16.50 per hour If not currently certified, please apply to our available Lifeguard - In Training Opportunities At a glance: We are seeking ...

YMCA

Lifeguard

White Bear Lake, MN · On-site

$16.50/hr

Lifeguard | White Bear Area YMCA | Morning Opener + Weekdays | $16.50 per hour If not currently certified, please apply to our available Lifeguard - In Training Opportunities At a glance: We are ...

YMCA of the USA

Lifeguard

Elk River, MN · On-site

$16.50/hr

Description Lifeguard | Elk River YMCA | Weekdays and opening shifts | $16.50 per hour If not currently certified, please apply to our available Lifeguard - In Training Opportunities At a glance: We ...

City of Chaska, MN

Lifeguard

Chaska, MN · On-site

$16.78 - $25.17/hr

Community Center Opening Date: 05/19/2026 Closing Date: 9/13/2026 11:59 PM Central FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Reports To: Aquatic & Operations Coordinator Job Summary The Lifeguard is responsible for ...

YMCA of the USA

Lifeguard

Forest Lake, MN · On-site

$16.50/hr

Schedule: * Mornings - Opener start 4:40 am (3-4 hour shifts) * During the day on weekdays ... The Lifeguard is responsible for supervising the aquatics area to prevent accidents, assist ...

YMCA

Lifeguard

Forest Lake, MN · On-site

$16.50/hr

Lifeguard | Forest Lake YMCA | mornings + weekdays | $16.50 per hour If not currently certified ... Schedule: * Mornings - Opener start 4:40 am (3-4 hour shifts) * During the day on weekdays ...

YMCA

Lifeguard II

New Hope, MN · On-site

$17.50/hr

Lifeguard | New Hope YMCA | Flexible Schedule | $17.50 per hour If not currently certified, please ... Morning - Opener starts at 4:40 am * During the day on weekdays - weekday shifts run until 3:00 pm

YMCA

Lifeguard-In Training

Forest Lake, MN · On-site

$16.50/hr

Lifeguard-In Training (Age 15+) | Forest Lake YMCA | $13.92 per hour | Paid Training At a glance ... Mornings; opener starts at 4:40 AM (3 to 4-hour shifts) * During the day on weekdays; weekday ...

YMCA of the USA

Lifeguard-In Training

Forest Lake, MN · On-site

$16.50/hr

Description Lifeguard In-Training | Forest Lake YMCA | Opener + Week days | Paid Trainings At a glance: We are seeking Lifeguards - In Training, age 15+. Paid training + Lifeguard certification!

YMCA

Lifeguard

New Hope, MN · On-site

$16.50/hr

The Lifeguard will oversee multiple activities including but not limited to open swim, water exercise, swim lessons, and lap swimming. 2. Essential Functions: Maintain constant surveillance of the ...

YMCA

Lifeguard

Coon Rapids, MN · On-site

$16.50/hr

The Lifeguard will oversee multiple activities including but not limited to open swim, water exercise, swim lessons, and lap swimming. 2. Essential Functions: Maintain constant surveillance of the ...

YMCA of the USA

Lifeguard - Blaisdell

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$16.50/hr

Mornings - Opener, start 4:45 am, 3 hour shifts * Afternoons or Evenings on weekdays - shifts run 2 ... The Lifeguard is responsible for supervising the aquatics area to prevent accidents, assist ...

YMCA of the USA

Lifeguard-In Training

Minnetonka, MN · On-site

$16.50/hr

Description Lifeguard In-Training (Age 15+) | Ridgedale YMCA | Morning Opener + Weekdays | $13.92 per hour | Paid Trainings At a glance: We are seeking Lifeguards - In Training, age 15+. Paid ...

YMCA

Lifeguard-In Training

White Bear Lake, MN · On-site

$16.50/hr

Lifeguard In-Training (Age 15+) | White Bear YMCA | $13.92 per hour | Paid Training At a glance: We ... Mornings; opener starts at 4:40 AM (3 to 4-hour shifts) * During the day on weekdays; weekday ...

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All JobsOpen Lifeguard JobsOpen Lifeguard Jobs in Minnesota

Open Lifeguard information

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.

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 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 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.

Where do open lifeguards get paid the most?

Open lifeguards tend to earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for aquatic safety personnel, such as affluent coastal areas or popular tourist destinations. Factors like certifications, experience, and the type of facility also influence pay rates, with private clubs and resorts often offering higher compensation than public pools. Overall, wages vary widely based on location and employer.

What are popular job titles related to Open Lifeguard jobs in Minnesota?

For Open Lifeguard jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Open Lifeguard jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Open Lifeguard jobs in Minnesota are:

Open Lifeguard jobs near you
Infographic showing various Open Lifeguard job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Opening Lifeguard

Alexandria Area YMCA

Alexandria, MN • On-site

$15 - $16.50/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

The YMCA is hiring Lifeguards for our aquatics team! If you are responsible, energetic, and enjoy working with people of all ages, we'd love to have you join us this summer.
Position Responsibilities
  • Actively supervising the pool area to ensure safety at all times
  • Providing an exceptional and welcoming experience for children, families, and guests
  • Enforcing pool rules fairly, consistently, and courteously
  • Responding quickly and effectively to emergencies, following all safety protocols
  • Adhering to YMCA policies and procedures, including emergency and safety standards

Pay
$15.00 - $16.50/hour
Schedule
We are currently seeking applicants who are available to work Monday and Friday mornings from 5:00am - 9:00am. Additional shifts may also be available based on availability and scheduling needs.
Benefits
  • YMCA covers the cost of lifeguard certification
  • Flexible Schedule
  • Free Membership and Program Discounts
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Retirement Savings Options
  • Strong commitment to work-life balance

Requirements
  • Current Red Cross or YMCA Lifeguard Certification (required)
  • Strong commitment to water safety and member service
  • Ability to remain alert, vigilant, and proactive in enforcing safety rules
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills

Physical Demands
  • Ability to walk, stand, and sit for long periods of time.
  • Exposure to communicable diseases and bodily fluids.
  • Must be able to lift equipment weighing up to 20 pounds or remove a victim from the water in the event of an emergency.
  • Ability to stand or sit while maintaining alertness for several hours at a time.
  • Position may require bending, leaning, kneeling, and walking.
  • Ability to speak concisely and effectively communicate.
  • Visual and auditory ability to respond to critical situations and physical ability to act swiftly in an emergency.

EEO Statement
The Alexandria Area YMCA (the Y) provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment with regards to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, the Y complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

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