ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Pool Guard Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

GVRD

Senior Lifeguard - Part Time

Vallejo, CA · On-site

$19 - $19.50/hr

Supervises the staff during lessons and public swimming hours. 2. The Senior Guard in charge shall not leave the pool without notifying the Pool Manager, Aquatic Programs Specialist, or Aquatics ...

GVRD

Lifeguard Swim Instructor - PT

Vallejo, CA · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Guard and patrol the pool to observe swimmers in the pool and surrounding area. * Provide assistance in emergency situations; provide air to patrons in distress and the immediate administration of ...

GVRD

Lifeguard Swim Instructor - PT

Vallejo, CA · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Guard and patrol the pool to observe swimmers in the pool and surrounding area. * Provide assistance in emergency situations; provide air to patrons in distress and the immediate administration of ...

KE Camps

Summer Day Camp Lifeguard

Novato, CA · On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

Ability to guard the health and well-being of campers while in or around the pool at all times * Responsible, Dependable, Level-Headed, Flexible, and Calm in all situations * Current certification in ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsPool Guard JobsPool Guard Jobs in California

Pool Guard information

See California salary details

$9

$16

$36

How much do pool guard jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for pool guard 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 is a pool guard?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pool guard?

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.

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 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.

Is a pool guard well paid?

Pool guards typically earn minimum wage or slightly above, with salaries varying by location and employer. Experienced guards or those working full-time may earn higher wages, and certifications in lifeguarding can improve earning potential.

What cities in California are hiring for Pool Guard jobs?

Cities in California with the most Pool Guard job openings:

Pool Guard jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pool Guard job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,305 per year, or $17 per hour.

Senior Lifeguard - Part Time

Greater Vallejo Recreation District

Vallejo, CA • On-site

$19 - $19.50/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Job Announcement
The Greater Vallejo Recreation District invites applications for:
Position: 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 Greater Vallejo Recreation District is a Special Service District that has been serving area residents for over sixty years. As a Special Service District, GVRD operates as a separate government agency from the City of Vallejo. GVRD manages 407 acres of public park space including 20 neighborhood parks, 10 community parks, 6 special purpose parks, and Olympic-size swimming pool and 4 community centers. GVRD maintains over 1,000 acres of public land.
GVRD is governed by a five-member Board of Directors. With 30 plus full time and approximately 155 part-time and seasonal employees, GVRD operates on a 2025-2026 fiscal year budget of $12.969 million for general fund operations and Measure K funding amounting to $2.2 million. The Measure K funding is being utilized to purchase necessary equipment, improve parks, facilities.
JOB DESCRIPTION
Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.
DEFINITION
Responsible for the safety and general welfare of patrons. Will instruct in the aquatic Learn to Swim program. Supervises the daily operation and maintenance of the public swimming pool.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives general supervision from the Aquatic Recreation Coordinator, Assistant Coordinators, and Pool Specialists.
Exercise functional and technical supervision over part-time lifeguards and cashiers.
ESSENTIAL AND MARGINAL FUNCTION STATEMENTS- Essential and other important responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Essential Functions:
1. Assists the Pool Manager prepare the pool for use by the public as assigned, including the following:
  1. Preparation of water conforming to Board of Health Standards.
  2. Inspection of filter equipment and maintaining correct water level at all times.
  3. Inspection of locker rooms, changing areas, office, public restrooms, etc. to insure that a sanitary condition exists at all times.
  4. Inspection of all equipment to insure that everything is in working order.
  5. Responsible for working with the cashier in the collection and accounting of all fees taken in at the pool.
  6. Supervises the staff during lessons and public swimming hours.

2. The Senior Guard in charge shall not leave the pool without notifying the Pool Manager, Aquatic Programs Specialist, or Aquatics Coordinator.
3. Responsible for the opening and closing of the pool as assigned.
4. Responsible for the placement of pool covers, on the pool every day after closing, where available.
5. Responsible for informing the Aquatic Coordinator of problems or progress in regards to the programs or facilities.
6. Supervises the public during Recreation Swim hours and teaches swim lessons as needed.
Marginal Functions:
  1. Responsible for maintaining pool records including time sheets, pool attendance sheets, daily financial sheets, Board of Health records, chlorine records, supply sheets, accident reports, incident reports and any other records deemed necessary for pool operation.
  2. Assists in weekly and bi-weekly trainings/meetings of all personnel in order to review life-guarding techniques, procedures, and to discuss or review progress/problems of the past week.
  3. When assigned by the Pool manager, Aquatic Programs Specialist, or Aquatics Coordinator as Senior Guard in Charge, responsible for the dismissal of patrons who are disobeying rules or jeopardizing the safety or pleasure of others and filling out all appropriate forms.
  4. Performs related duties and responsibilities as needed.
  5. Provides assistance in emergency situations.

QUALIFICATIONS
  • Minimum age - 18 years.
  • Possession of current Lifeguard Training, CPR/PR, Lifeguard Training Instructor or Water Safety Instructor.
  • Possession of CFAS Instructor certification is highly desirable.
  • Pass practical skills test and written test.
  • Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California driver's license is desirable.

Ability to:
  • Interact effectively with diverse groups of people and respond to sensitive situations.
  • Work independently in the absence of supervision.
  • Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
  • Ability to perform physical duties required of a lifeguard, including swimming, treading water, and assisting with water rescues.
  • Ability to swim 300 yards continuously, tread water for 2 minutes without hands, and retrieve a 10-lb object from the bottom of the pool.

WORKING CONDITIONS
Environmental Conditions:
Pool, classroom, and outdoor environment; exposure to potentially hazardous chemicals.
Physical Conditions:
Essential and marginal functions may require maintaining physical condition necessary for swimming, running, walking, lifting, crouching or crawling; standing or sitting for extended periods of time.
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Apply