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Pool Guard Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pool Guard II

Escondido, CA

$15 - $19/hr

Pool Guard I * Swimming Pool Manager I * Water Safety Instructor Pool Guard II candidates must apply before taking the performance test. Once applications are approved, candidates will be notified ...

Pool Guard II

San Diego, CA

$21.76 - $26.21/hr

Pool Guard I Swimming Pool Manager I Water Safety Instructor POOL GUARD II CANDIDATES MUST APPLY BEFORE TAKING THE PERFORMANCE TEST. ONCE APPLICATIONS ARE APPROVED, CANDIDATES WILL BE NOTIFIED ...

Pool Guard II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$21.76 - $26.21/hr

Pool Guard II positions oversee the safety of pool patrons by monitoring the pool and deck areas to prevent accidents; explain and enforce facility regulations, policies and procedures; rescue ...

Pool Guard I

Los Angeles, CA

$15.25 - $19.75/hr

Pool Guard II * Swimming Pool Manager I * Water Safety Instructor Pool Guard I candidates must apply before taking the performance test. Once applications are approved, candidates will be notified ...

Pool Guard I

San Diego, CA · On-site

$19.82 - $23.88/hr

Pool Guard I positions oversee the safety of pool patrons by monitoring the pool and deck areas to prevent accidents; explain and enforce facility regulations, policies and procedures; rescue ...

Pool Guard II

San Diego, CA

$15.25 - $19.50/hr

Pool Guard II Pool Guard II positions oversee the safety of pool patrons by monitoring the pool and deck areas to prevent accidents; explain and enforce facility regulations, policies and procedures ...

Pool Guard II

San Diego, CA

$21.76 - $26.21/hr

Pool Guard II positions oversee the safety of pool patrons by monitoring the pool and deck areas to prevent accidents; explain and enforce facility regulations, policies and procedures; rescue ...

Pool Guard I

San Diego, CA

$15.25 - $19.50/hr

Pool Guard I Pool Guard I positions oversee the safety of pool patrons by monitoring the pool and deck areas to prevent accidents; explain and enforce facility regulations, policies and procedures ...

Pool Guard I

San Diego, CA

$19.82 - $23.88/hr

Pool Guard I positions oversee the safety of pool patrons by monitoring the pool and deck areas to prevent accidents; explain and enforce facility regulations, policies and procedures; rescue ...

Pool Guard I

San Diego, CA

$19.82 - $23.88/hr

Pool Guard II Swimming Pool Manager I Water Safety Instructor POOL GUARD I CANDIDATES MUST APPLY BEFORE TAKING THE PERFORMANCE TEST. ONCE APPLICATIONS ARE APPROVED, CANDIDATES WILL BE NOTIFIED ...

Seasonal Pool Guard

Tampa, FL · On-site

$16/hr

Introduction Pool Guards Must possess a Current American Red Cross Lifeguarding or nationally recognized lifeguarding certification (CPR/First Aid/AED) certification prior to starting employment. All ...

Seasonal Pool Guard

Tampa, FL · On-site

$15/hr

Introduction Pool Guards Must possess a Current American Red Cross Lifeguarding or nationally recognized lifeguarding certification (CPR/First Aid/AED) certification prior to starting employment. All ...

Seasonal Pool Guard

Tampa, FL · On-site

$15/hr

Introduction Pool Guards Must possess a Current American Red Cross Lifeguarding or nationally recognized lifeguarding certification (CPR/First Aid/AED) certification prior to starting employment. All ...

Pool Guard This is a casual position for up to 16 hours per week. Employees will be scheduled based on operational needs. SHIFT MAY VARY, MUST BE ABLE TO WORK ALL SHIFTS, INCLUDING: NIGHTS, WEEKENDS ...

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Pool Guard information

See salary details

$9

$17

$37

How much do pool guard jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for pool guard 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 Pool Guards?

Pool Guards, also known as lifeguards, are trained professionals responsible for ensuring the safety of swimmers and visitors at swimming pools. Their primary duties include monitoring pool activities, enforcing safety rules, preventing accidents, and responding to emergencies such as drownings or injuries. Pool Guards often perform rescues, administer first aid, and maintain a clean and safe pool environment. They are required to have strong swimming skills and usually hold certifications in lifesaving techniques and CPR.

What is the difference between Pool Guard vs Lifeguard?

AspectPool GuardLifeguard
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Pool SafetyCPR, First Aid, Lifeguard Certification
Work EnvironmentPrivate pools, resorts, community centersPublic pools, beaches, water parks
Employer & IndustryPrivate facilities, recreational clubsPublic facilities, aquatic centers

Pool Guards and Lifeguards share similar certifications and work environments focused on water safety. However, Pool Guards typically work in private or recreational settings, while Lifeguards are more common in public pools and beaches. Both roles require CPR and First Aid training, but Lifeguards often have additional certifications specific to public safety. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right job or training path.

What are some common challenges faced by pool guards during busy seasons, and how can they be managed?

During peak swimming seasons, pool guards often face challenges such as crowded pools, increased noise levels, and a higher risk of accidents. Managing these situations requires staying highly alert, maintaining clear communication with other staff, and enforcing pool rules consistently to ensure everyone's safety. Teamwork is crucial—pool guards often rotate positions and support each other to prevent fatigue and maintain effective surveillance. Training in emergency response and regular practice drills also help pool guards stay prepared for any incidents.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Pool Guard, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pool Guard, you generally need strong swimming ability, knowledge of water safety protocols, and current lifeguard certification such as Red Cross or YMCA. Familiarity with rescue equipment, first aid, and CPR/AED systems is typically required. Excellent observation skills, clear communication, and a calm, decisive demeanor are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure prompt response to emergencies and maintain a safe aquatic environment for all patrons.
More about Pool Guard jobs
What cities are hiring for Pool Guard jobs? Cities with the most Pool Guard job openings:
What states have the most Pool Guard jobs? States with the most job openings for Pool Guard jobs include:
Infographic showing various Pool Guard job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,774 per year, or $17.2 per hour.
Pool Guard II

$15 - $19/hr

Other

PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Job Information

Applicants are encouraged to apply to the following related recruitments:

  • Pool Guard I
  • Swimming Pool Manager I
  • Water Safety Instructor

Pool Guard II candidates must apply before taking the performance test. Once applications are approved, candidates will be notified regarding the specific date, time, and location.

Pool Guard II positions oversee the safety of pool patrons by monitoring the pool and deck areas to prevent accidents; explain and enforce facility regulations, policies, and procedures; rescue swimmers in distress or in danger of drowning; administer first aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) as needed; receive fees from patrons; assist patrons in aquatic class and activity registration; maintain records and prepare reports; conduct swim and safety instruction; and perform other duties as assigned.

Notes:

  • Eligible benefitted employees originally hired on or after July 10, 2021, will be automatically enrolled in the San Diego City Employees Retirement System (SDCERS).
  • Pool Guard II positions are available in full-time (benefitted) and part-time (limited/hourly) employment.
  • Pool Guard II employees may be assigned to work on holidays, weekends, and evenings.
  • Pool Guard II employees MUST be available to work June through August as scheduled with NO vacation leave.
  • Pool Guard II employees may be assigned to work at multiple pool sites including portable community pools.
  • Pool Guard II employees are required to wear a standard uniform that is prescribed by the Parks and Recreation Department.
  • Pool Guard II employees may require knowledge of competitive swimming, water polo, and water exercise.
  • Prior to employment, all applicants must pass a pass/fail performance test. Should you fail any part of the performance test, only one retest will be permitted on the same test date.
  • California State Law requires all persons hired in these positions to retain current certificates in CPR, First Aid, and Lifeguard Training and re-qualify as required to retain employment.
  • Pool Guard II employees must take and pass a performance test periodically to retain employment.
  • In accordance with California Public Resources Code section 5163, all persons holding Pool Guard II positions must get tested for tuberculosis (TB) when hired and every four years thereafter as a condition of continued employment.
Minimum Requirements

You must meet the following requirements on the date you apply, unless otherwise indicated. Age: 16 years of age or older. Notes:

  • Applicants less than age 18 must obtain a work permit prior to starting work.
  • Work permits may be obtained through the school system.
  • Applicants who are age 17 and are high school graduates, or have passed the California High School Proficiency Exam (CHSPE) or General Education Development (GED) examination, are not required to have a work permit; however, they must submit a copy of their high school diploma, CHSPE or GED results with their application.

Certificates: You must have ALL of the following valid certificates:

  1. American Red Cross Lifeguarding/First Aid Certificate.
  2. American Red Cross CPR/Automated External Defibrillator (AED) for Lifeguard Certificate.
  3. American Red Cross First Aid for Public Safety Personnel (Title 22) Certificate. Possession of a Lifeguarding/First Aid Certificate is NOT qualifying for this certificate.
  4. American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor (WSI) Certificate.

Notes:

  • For information on certificate requirements, please check the following website for a listing of upcoming training classes: www.redcross.org. You may also contact Parks and Recreation Department staff at (619) 692-4944.
  • All certificates MUST be valid.
  • Proof of current registration (enrollment) in any of the required certificate programs and/or letters from instructors are NOT acceptable.
  • Applicants who have completed the required training but have not received their certificate(s) may submit a copy of the American Red Cross Course Record showing successful completion.
  • An equivalent certificate from a lifeguard training program must be approved by the California Department of Public Health.

Highly desirable:

  • Experience teaching swimming lessons with an authorized provider.

Required documents (MUST SUBMIT WITH APPLICATION): Front and back copies of ALL of the following certificates:

  • American Red Cross Lifeguarding/First Aid Certificate.
  • American Red Cross CPR/Automated External Defibrillator (AED) for Lifeguard Certificate.
  • American Red Cross First Aid for Public Safety Personnel (Title 22) Certificate.
  • American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor (WSI) Certificate.
  • American Red Cross Course Record showing successful completion of required training, if utilized to meet the minimum requirements.
  • Equivalent certificate from a lifeguard training program, if utilized to meet the minimum requirements.
  • Proof of high school diploma, CHSPE or GED, if you are age 17 and do NOT have a work permit.

Required documents should be attached electronically to your application. If you are unable to attach at the time of application submittal, you must submit them as soon as possible via fax: (619) 533-3337; or to the Employment Information Center: City of San Diego Personnel Department, 1200 Third Avenue - Suite 300, San Diego, CA 92101. Include your name and the title of the position for which you are applying.

Screening Process

The screening process will consist of the following components:

  1. Application review: Please ensure all information is complete and accurate as the responses you provide on the supplemental questions will be reviewed using an automated evaluation system. If you are successful in this initial screening process, your application will be reviewed for applicable education, experience, and/or training to ensure all minimum requirements have been met.
  2. Performance test: The performance test is a pass/fail examination which consists of the following two timed events:
  • A 300-yard swim test using the front crawl that must be completed in 6 MINUTES OR LESS.
  • An object retrieval/active victim rescue which includes swimming approximately 25 yards using any approach stroke; performing a surface dive to locate and recover an object at a depth of up to 12 feet; performing a victim rescue using the breaststroke or front crawl approach stroke; and removing the victim from the water.

Performance Test Date: Approved applicants will be notified regarding the specific date, time, and location. You must have a Performance Test Appointment Notice in order to be admitted to the test. Reexamination Eligibility: If you fail the performance test, you may reapply ONE MONTH (30 days) after your most recent test date.

Notes:

  • Performance test weight......100%
  • Candidates must provide valid government-issued photo identification (e.g., driver license, military ID, Department of Motor Vehicles ID or passport) on the day of the performance test. FOR MINORS ONLY, a current school-issued ID with a photograph will be accepted.
  • Candidates who are between 16 and 18 years old at the time of the performance test must submit a Release of Liability Waiver (Download PDF reader) signed by their parent or guardian in order to take the performance test. Candidates must bring this signed waiver to the performance test. Falsification of the Release of Liability Waiver is cause for disqualification and/or termination of employment. Waivers will also be available on the date of the performance test.
  • Should you fail any part of the performance test, only one retest will be permitted on the same test date.

Candidates who pass the performance test will be placed on a list which will be used to fill position vacancies during the next six months (180 days). For each vacancy, only those candidates with the most appropriate qualifications will be contacted by the hiring department for an interview.

Supplemental Information

Pre-employment requirements: Employment offers are conditional pending the results of all screening processes applicable to this position, which may include the following: confirmation of