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Open Lifeguard Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Opening Lifeguard

Alexandria, MN · On-site

$15 - $16.50/hr

Lifeguard Position 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.

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

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

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Lifeguard

Coon Rapids, MN · On-site

$16.50/hr

Applicants must be available to work opening shifts only weekdays: 4:45 a.m and weekends6:45 a.m ... The Lifeguard is responsible for supervising the aquatics area to prevent accidents, assist ...

Lifeguard

Chaska, MN · On-site

$15.25 - $19.50/hr

Lifeguard The Lifeguard is responsible for ensuring safety by supervising pool or beach area to ... Oversees multiple activities including open swim, water exercise, swim lessons, lap swim and safety ...

Lifeguard

Minneapolis, 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 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 ...

Lifeguard

Andover, 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 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 ...

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Open Lifeguard information

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 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:
Infographic showing various Open Lifeguard job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Opening Lifeguard

Alexandria Area YMCA

Alexandria, MN • On-site

$15 - $16.50/hr

Other

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Lifeguard Position

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.