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Part Time Lifeguard Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Cowell Homeowners Association

Lifeguard

Concord, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Cowell Homeowners Association, Inc. is looking to hire part-time lifeguards for the summer swim season. We have a Swim Team who practices on weekday mornings from 7am to 12pm, and our contract ...

Cowell Homeowners Association

Lifeguard

Concord, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Cowell Homeowners Association, Inc. is looking to hire part-time lifeguards for the summer swim season. We have a Swim Team who practices on weekday mornings from 7am to 12pm, and our contract ...

YMCA of Orange County

Aquatics Lifeguard

Newport Beach, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $20.45/hr

We are actively seeking highly engaged, intentional, and service-oriented individuals for part-time Lifeguard positions. The Lifeguard is responsible for communicating pool guidelines, guiding ...

GVRD

Senior Lifeguard - Part Time

Vallejo, CA · On-site

Senior Lifeguard-PT Department: Recreation Job Opening Date: March 10, 2026 Location: Cunningham Deadline for applying: Open Until Filled Position Type: Part Time Salary Range: $19.00 to $19.50 The ...

YMCA

Lifeguard - Oakland Y

Oakland, CA

$23/hr

We are currently hiring part-time lifeguards and/or swim instructors. You don't need a certification - we can train you. We are looking for adaptable, reliable, energetic individuals who can work 6 ...

YMCA

Lifeguard - Berkeley YMCA

Berkeley, CA

$23/hr

We are currently hiring part-time lifeguards. You don't need a certification - we can train you. We are looking for adaptable, reliable, energetic individuals who can work 6-25 hours/week in a fast ...

YMCA

Lifeguard - Berkeley YMCA

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$23/hr

We are currently hiring part-time lifeguards. You don't need a certification - we can train you. We are looking for adaptable, reliable, energetic individuals who can work 6-25 hours/week in a fast ...

YMCA

Lifeguard - Oakland Y

Oakland, CA · On-site

$23/hr

We are currently hiring part-time lifeguards and/or swim instructors. You don't need a certification - we can train you. We are looking for adaptable, reliable, energetic individuals who can work 6 ...

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All JobsLifeguard JobsPart Time Lifeguard JobsPart Time Lifeguard Jobs in California

Part Time Lifeguard information

See California salary details

$9

$16

$36

How much do part time lifeguard jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for part time lifeguard in California is $16.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.51 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a part time lifeguard?

To thrive as a Part Time Lifeguard, you need strong swimming ability, knowledge of water safety, and current lifeguard certification such as Red Cross or YMCA. Familiarity with rescue equipment, first aid, and CPR/AED protocols is typically required. Excellent observation skills, quick decision-making, and effective communication are vital soft skills for responding to emergencies and interacting with patrons. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure a safe aquatic environment and provide prompt, effective responses to incidents.

Where do part time lifeguards make the most money?

Part time lifeguards tend to earn higher wages in regions with higher living costs or where there is strong demand for aquatic safety staff, such as affluent or tourist-heavy areas. Salary can also vary based on certifications, experience, and the type of facility, with private clubs and upscale resorts often offering higher pay than public pools or community centers.

Is part time lifeguarding a good side hustle?

Part time lifeguarding can be a good side hustle for those who enjoy working outdoors, have strong swimming skills, and hold necessary certifications such as CPR and first aid. It offers flexible hours, typically during weekends or evenings, and provides a source of supplemental income, though pay rates vary by location and experience.

What is a part time lifeguard?

Part time lifeguards are trained professionals who work on a part-time basis to supervise swimming areas, such as pools, beaches, or water parks, ensuring the safety of swimmers and patrons. Their main responsibilities include monitoring the water, preventing accidents, responding to emergencies, and administering first aid or CPR when necessary. Part time lifeguards often work flexible hours, covering shifts during busy times, weekends, or holidays, and must maintain up-to-date certifications in lifeguarding and lifesaving skills.

What is the difference between Part Time Lifeguard vs Part Time Swim Instructor?

AspectPart Time LifeguardPart Time Swim Instructor
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Lifeguard CertificationCPR, First Aid, Swim Instructor Certification
Work EnvironmentPoolside, outdoor or indoor pools, beachesPoolside, teaching swim lessons, indoor or outdoor pools
Employer & IndustryRecreational facilities, pools, beachesSwim schools, community centers, pools

Part Time Lifeguards primarily focus on ensuring safety and preventing accidents in aquatic environments, while Part Time Swim Instructors teach swimming skills and techniques. Both roles require CPR and First Aid certifications and often work in similar settings like pools and beaches. The main difference lies in their responsibilities: lifeguards monitor safety, whereas swim instructors focus on teaching swimming skills.

What are some common challenges part time lifeguards face, and how can they prepare for them?

Part-time lifeguards often face challenges such as maintaining constant vigilance during long shifts, quickly adapting to changing pool or beach conditions, and balancing their responsibilities with another job or school. Staying alert and refreshed, even during quieter periods, is crucial for ensuring swimmer safety. To prepare for these challenges, lifeguards should keep their training up-to-date, practice effective communication with team members, and develop good time-management skills to handle a flexible schedule.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lifeguard jobs in California? The most popular types of Lifeguard jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Part Time Lifeguard jobs in California? For Part Time Lifeguard jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Part Time Lifeguard jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Part Time Lifeguard jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Part Time Lifeguard jobs? Cities in California with the most Part Time Lifeguard job openings:
Part Time Lifeguard jobs near you
Infographic showing various Part Time Lifeguard job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 34% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 6% Summer. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,305 per year, or $17 per hour.

Part-Time Lifeguard

City of Los Alamitos, CA

Los Alamitos, CA • On-site

$19.02 - $23.12/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Salary: $19.02 - $23.12 Hourly
Location : Los Alamitos Community Center
Job Type: Part-Time
Job Number: 2026-28
Department: Recreation & Community Services
Opening Date: 07/05/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Description
APPLICATION FILING PERIOD INFORMATION: This recruitment is Open Until Filled.
Interested applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Please note that the application filing period for this recruitment may close, at any time without notice, once a sufficient number of qualified applications have been received.
SALARY RANGE: $19.02 - $23.12 Per Hour; up to (20) work hours per week (varies per season)
POSITION:
This part-time position serves as a Water Safety Instructor I in the Department of Recreation and Community Services and performs a variety of duties including, but not limited to swim lesson instruction, and lifesaving skills.
Examples of Duties
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
Under the direction of the Recreation & Community Services Department, the Lifeguard is required to perform the following essential job functions:
  • Think independently and problem-solve with minimal supervision and communicate effectively both orally and in writing;
  • Maintain the water, deck, bleachers, building, offices and equipment at the pool for cleanliness, safety and appropriate usage;
  • Perform all duties of a lifeguard and assist water safety instructor including enforcing of pool policies and regulations with pool patrons and the general public;
  • Oversee aquatics facility including water quality, temperature, general pool maintenance, and safety and cleanliness of the facility; communicate with contracted pool maintenance companies, City staff and partnering agency staff.
  • Ability to handle all emergency situations effectively and administer first aid, CPR, AED and rescues as necessary;
  • Conveys and communicates program and facility objectives, acts as a customer service liaison and diffuses patron concerns with the general public, school district personnel and City staff;
  • Performs routine reception duties including telephone support and related customer services activities;
  • Ability to adjust work schedule based on the ever-changing needs of the facility and programming including evenings, weekends and holidays and attend all necessary meetings and trainings;
  • Communicate effectively verbally to participants, parents and community members.
  • Effectively communicate verbally and in writing to supervisor, staff and participants.
  • Be enthusiastic and maintain a high level of customer service.
  • Be able to lift over their head, twist & turn a minimum of 20 pounds.
  • Be able to stand for a long period of time either indoors or outdoors.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Typical Qualifications
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
This position is open to all candidates who meet the following minimum qualifications:
  • Must possess current American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification by first day of employment.
  • If under 18, must have a valid permit to work;
  • Must have access to reliable transportation to and from work;
  • Experience in aquatics, recreation, and/or other related areas is desirable.

DESIRABLE EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:
  • Currently attending or graduated from high school. College course work with a major in recreation or similar field is preferred.
  • Experience working with aquatics or swimming preferred.
  • Knowledge and understanding of current American Red Cross Lifeguard requirements; .
  • Must possess current American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification by first day of employment.
  • Ability to pass an in-water demonstration of aquatics and lifeguard skills.
  • Past experience and enjoyment of working with people of all ages and ability to be flexible, energetic, outgoing, creative;
  • Strong communication skills to direct staff and maintain a cooperative and friendly working relationship with employees, and the general public.
    • Prefer a dynamic and enthusiastic personality with the ability to motivate staff and youth.
    • Be able to work with people of all ages (youth, teens, adults, older adults).
    • Effectively handle emergency and/or stressful situations.
    • Have basic knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Publisher, etc.).
    • Certification in First Aid, CPR, AED required upon hired or within four weeks of hiring.

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL DEMANDS/WORKING CONDITIONS
The physical and mental demands herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential job functions.
  • Mental Function: Includes reading, writing, mathematical computations, operating a computer, problem solving, managing multiple projects, calmly handling complaints and problems from irate employees, citizens, or contractors, and decision making under stressful conditions.
  • Productivity: The position must perform work in an efficient, effective and timely manner with minimal direction.
  • Mobility: The position requires sufficient mobility to work in an office setting and operate office equipment. The position may require light lifting and carrying, filing documents (minimum of 25 pounds) in various locations and at various heights, and sitting, standing, walking, remaining seated, and working at a video display terminal for prolonged periods. This position works outdoors at events and may carry equipment (minimum 35 pounds).
  • Vision: Vision sufficient to read small print, computer screens, and printed documents, and to operate assigned equipment.
  • Hearing: The position is required to hear in the normal audio range with or without correction.
  • Environment: The position works in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances.
  • Other Factors: The position may be required to work extended hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. The position may require the use of a personal vehicle during employment.

DEFERRED COMPENSATION (Retirement Plan)
The City contributes (3.75%) of your gross salary and withholds (3.75%) of your gross salary per pay period for total of (7.5%) of your salary that is deposited into a tax-deferred retirement savings plan that can be withdrawn and used upon separation from the City or saved and invested towards future retirement.
PAID SICK LEAVE
After (30) days of employment, will accrue one (1) hour of sick leave for every (30) hours worked, and you can use up to (40) hours or (5 days) of paid sick leave in one year.
EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (EAP)
EAP is a voluntary and confidential service to employees who need help managing personal difficulties or life challenges.
HEALTH BENEFITS
Please note that part-time positions are not eligible for City-paid health benefits (i.e. medical, dental, vision, life insurance).
Part-time employment with the City is At-Will and is based on continued program needs. No guarantees are made related to hours.
01
Are you American Red Cross Lifeguard certified?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have experience in aquatics including lifeguarding, swimming, swim instruction, and coaching?
  • Yes
  • No

03
If you answered YES to Question #2, please describe your experience. If you answered NO, please list N/A.
Required Question

Apply