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Open Lifeguard Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Salina Family YMCA Inc

Lifeguard Morning Opener

Salina, KS · On-site

$12 - $14.99/hr

Lifeguard Morning OpenerLocation: Salina, KS 67401Position Summary The Lifeguard Morning Opener at the YMCA in Salina, KS is responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of all members and ...

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 ...

City of St Marys Georgia

Lifeguard

Saint Marys, GA · On-site

$11.41/hr

Lifeguards will perform all daily duties accordance with Park policies ... They will perform opening and closing duties, guard rotations, in service trainings and drills ...

Ashtabula YMCA

Opening Lifeguard

Ashtabula, OH · On-site

$12.50/hr

All lifeguards must remain physically and mentally alert, taking a proactive approach to searching for distressed swimmers and hazards. * Successfully communicate with youth and adults to enforce ...

YMCA of Greater Richmond

Lifeguard

Chesterfield, VA · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

Looking for candidates who have open availability. Pay range for this position is $15-$16 per hour. DUTIES for Lifeguards The lifeguard should be a qualified candidate that will be responsible for ...

City of Columbia

Lifeguard (Open Until Filled)

Columbia, TN · On-site

$12.25 - $15.50/hr

These are re-evaluated each time the position is opened for recruitment. Please refer to the most recent Job Announcement for updated minimum qualifications. Minimum Qualifications: Lifeguard ...

City of Columbia

Lifeguard (Open Until Filled)

Columbia, TN · On-site

$12.25 - $15.50/hr

These are re-evaluated each time the position is opened for recruitment. Please refer to the most recent Job Announcement for updated minimum qualifications. Minimum Qualifications: Lifeguard ...

Greater Providence YMCA

Opening Lifeguard

Cranston, RI · On-site

$18/hr

* This is for an opening Lifeguard role. Shifts are Monday - Friday, 4:45am - 11:00am * * Position summary: Monitor activities in swimming areas to provide a safe environment, enforcing pool rules and ...

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Open Lifeguard information

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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.

Lifeguard Morning Opener

Salina Family YMCA Inc

Salina, KS • On-site

$12 - $14.99/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Lifeguard Morning OpenerLocation: Salina, KS 67401Position Summary

The Lifeguard Morning Opener at the YMCA in Salina, KS is responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of all members and guests using the aquatic facilities. This role requires vigilance, strong swimming skills, and the ability to respond quickly and effectively in emergency situations. The Lifeguard Opener will enforce all pool rules and regulations to maintain a safe and welcoming environment, along with ensuring the pool is ready for patron use prior to its opening in the morning.

This position is specifically for individuals who could work the early morning shift (anytime from 5:30am-1pm) and be able to follow checklists to set up and test the pools prior to opening. Anytime working during the 5am-8am timeframe will also receive a $1/hr. boost in pay during those times.
Key Responsibilities
  • Monitor activities in and around the pool area to prevent accidents and injuries.
  • Enforce all YMCA aquatic policies and safety rules consistently and fairly.
  • Perform rescues and administer first aid or CPR as needed.
  • Conduct regular safety checks of pool equipment and facilities.
  • Maintain a clean and organized pool deck and surrounding areas.
  • Assist with swim lessons, aquatic programs, and special events as required.
  • Communicate effectively with members, guests, and team members.
  • Complete all required training and certifications, including American Red Cross Lifeguard Training.
Qualifications
  • Current (or willingness to obtain) American Red Cross Lifeguard certification
  • Strong swimming skills and physical fitness.
  • Ability to remain alert and attentive for extended periods.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Previous lifeguarding or aquatic experience preferred.
Work Environment

This position requires working indoors at the YMCA aquatic facility in Salina, KS. Lifeguards must be able to stand for long periods and work in a fast-paced environment. The role involves exposure to water, pool chemicals, and varying temperatures.

Advancement Opportunities
This position has many options for workplace advancement in the forms of becoming swim instructors, Aquatic's Leads, Lifeguard Instructors and etc. Each new certificate (depending on certificate) comes with its own respective increase in base pay.

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