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Open Lifeguard Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

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!

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 ...

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

Fergus Falls, MN · On-site

$15.69 - $16.80/hr

Lifeguarding for our swim club program, open swim, pool rentals and other lifeguarding needs that arise. Qualifications: Lifeguard certification Strong communication skills Minimum Desired ...

Daytime Lifeguard

Chaska, MN · On-site

$18.30 - $27.45/hr

Parks & Recreation 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 Daytime Lifeguard is ...

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 ...

Lifeguard

Hastings, 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. * Essential Functions: · Maintain constant surveillance of the ...

Lifeguard

Chaska, MN · On-site

$16.78 - $25.17/hr

Oversees multiple activities including open swim, water exercise, swim lessons, lap swim and safety ... Red Cross (ARC) Lifeguard/CPR/AED and First Aid Certification Ability to pass lifeguard pre ...

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. * 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 ...

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 ...

Lifeguard

Hastings, 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 ...

Lifeguard

Hastings, 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

Shoreview, 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 ...

Lifeguard

Burnsville, 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

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 ...

Lifeguard

Edina, 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

Forest Lake, 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 ...

Showing results 21-40

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, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Lifeguard-In Training

YMCA of the USA

Forest Lake, MN • On-site

$16.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

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! Flexible schedule, free Y membership and more with this fun role at the Y!
Must be an experienced swimmer with the ability to pass a swim skills assessment. We are looking for someone who can work mornings and during the day on weekdays. Openers would start at 4:40am, weekday shifts run until 3:00. A typical shift is about 3 to 4 hours long.
Schedule:
    • Mornings - Opener start 4:40 am (3-4 hour shifts)
    • During the day on weekdays - weekday shifts run until 3:00
    • A typical shift is about 3 to 4 hours long

The salary for this position starts at $13.92 hourly (in-training rate. Once certified, team member transitions to Lifeguard salary of $16.50 hourly). We take into consideration an individual's background and experience in determining salary; therefore, base pay offered may vary considerably depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The compensation package includes a wide range of other benefits and earned time off that vary depending on part-time or full-time status.
1. Job Summary:
This Lifeguard (In Training) will shadow certified lifeguards while working to obtain required certification up to but no longer than 90 days of hire date. The incumbent will provide excellent customer service in a safe, enjoyable, and positive atmosphere that promotes member safety and satisfaction in accordance with the YMCA policies and procedures.
2. Essential Functions:
  • Shadow and assist lifeguards and learn programming and emergency procedures.
  • Know, understand, and consistently communicate policies and procedures for the pool, body of water and whirlpool.

3. Relationships:
This position reports to the Aquatics Director/Aquatics Supervisor who reports to Senior Aquatics Management. The incumbent interacts regularly with their supervisor, staff, volunteers, and participants.
4. Qualifications:
Required
  • Minimum age of 15.
  • Certification required within 90 days of hire.
  • Patience and the ability to communicate with all ages and levels of swimmers.
  • Demonstrated ability to swim in shallow and deep water, and tread water (Stage 5 level swimming skill) or physically able to perform all skills required for a lifeguard.
  • Dedicated to member safety and the mission and philosophy of the YMCA

5. Work Conditions:
  • Must remain in the pool area at all times.
  • Ability to support child or adult body weight in the water.
  • Must be able to remain alert with no lapses of consciousness in a warm environment with air temperatures of 80 degrees or higher.
  • Demonstrated ability to recognize and remedy hazardous/dangerous situations.
  • Ability to recognize and react calmly and effectively in hazardous/dangerous situations.
  • Communicate verbally, including projecting voice across distance in normal and loud situations.
  • Perform all physical aspects of the position, including walking, standing, bending, reaching, and lifting up to 50 pounds at a time in a warm pool environment.

6. Additional Notes:
This job description represents the major functions of the position but is not intended to be all-inclusive. The incumbent is also responsible for taking direction from branch representatives in completing projects or performing duties deemed necessary for the branch or Association's success.