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Open Lifeguard Jobs (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

Strategic Government Resources

Lifeguard

Angleton, TX · On-site

$11.21/hr

Job Openings >> Lifeguard Lifeguard Summary Title: Lifeguard ID: 1134 Location: Angleton, TX Department: Parks & Recreation Salary Range: $11.21 per hour More about this job > Description Department:

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

Alexandria Area YMCA

Opening Lifeguard

Alexandria, MN

$15 - $16.50/hr

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 ...

The J

Lifeguard/Swim Instructor (FT)

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

... Opening Lifeguard * $17.00 for Aquatics Manager on Duty * $20.00 for Aquatics Birthday Party, Private Swim Lesson, Day Camp Swim Lesson, Swim Team Coach, and Group Swim Lesson * $24.00 for ...

City of St. Robert

LIFEGUARD (Seasonal)

Saint Robert, MO · On-site

$16/hr

Job Openings >> LIFEGUARD (Seasonal) LIFEGUARD (Seasonal) Summary Title: LIFEGUARD (Seasonal) ID: 1013 Location: St. Robert, Missouri Department: Parks & Recreation Salary Range: Starting at $16.00 ...

Old Colony YMCA

Opening Lifeguard

Taunton, MA · On-site

Arrive on deck, in uniform, ready to open pool promptly at scheduled time. * Smile and greet ... Wear appropriate lifeguard attire as requested by supervisor. * Attend all staff meetings scheduled ...

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How much do open lifeguard jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for open lifeguard in the United States is $17.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $17.55 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 cities are hiring for Open Lifeguard jobs? Cities with the most Open Lifeguard job openings:
What states have the most Open Lifeguard jobs? States with the most job openings for Open Lifeguard jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Open Lifeguard jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Open Lifeguard jobs are:
Open Lifeguard jobs near you
Infographic showing various Open Lifeguard job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,774 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Opening Lifeguard

Alexandria Area YMCA

Alexandria, MN • On-site

$15 - $16.50/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

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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