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Pool Guard Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Greater Joliet Area YMCA

Avery Lifeguard

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$15.25 - $16.25/hr

Checks the pool for hazardous conditions when arriving. * Performs chemical testing when not guarding, as required, and takes appropriate action. * Attends all staff meetings and in-service training.

YMCA

Avery Lifeguard

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$15.25 - $16.25/hr

Checks the pool for hazardous conditions when arriving. * Performs chemical testing when not guarding, as required, and takes appropriate action. * Attends all staff meetings and in-service training.

Valparaiso YMCA

LIFEGUARD

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$13/hr

Check the pool for hazardous conditions when arriving. Knows and reviews all emergency procedures ... Performs chemical testing when not guarding, as required, and takes appropriate action. Checks and ...

HOMEWOOD-FLOSSMOOR PARK DISTRICT

LIFEGUARD

Homewood, IL · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Lifeguard will also be expected to teach swim lessons on days they are not scheduled to guard ... pool rules in the water and on the deck or in locker rooms. - Perform any necessary emergency ...

Homewood-Flossmoor Park District

LIFEGUARD

Homewood, IL · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Lifeguard will also be expected to teach swim lessons on days they are not scheduled to guard ... pool rules in the water and on the deck or in locker rooms. - Perform any necessary emergency ...

YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago

Lifeguards

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18/hr

Sunday-Saturday 5:45AM - 12PM Evening Guards: Sunday - Saturday 3:45PM - 9PM What You'll Do: * Keep swimmers safe, respond to emergencies, and ensure a positive pool environment * Deliver excellent ...

Valparaiso YMCA

LIFEGUARD

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$13/hr

Check the pool for hazardous conditions when arriving. · Knows and reviews all emergency ... guarding, as required, and takes appropriate action. Checks and records water temperature. · ...

Valparaiso Family YMCA

LIFEGUARD

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$13/hr

Check the pool for hazardous conditions when arriving. • Knows and reviews all emergency ... guarding, as required, and takes appropriate action. Checks and records water temperature. • ...

Westminster Place

Certified Nursing Assistant

Evanston, IL · On-site

$20.34 - $29.30/hr

... pool for both current and future openings for this role. Full-Time / Part-Time: All shifts ... Guards' residents' rights. Ensuring patient privacy and confidentiality according to legal and ...

YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago

Lifeguard

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18/hr

Supervise and guard the pool and aquatic facility and ensure participants adhere to all YMCA aquatic guidelines and procedures. * Examine injured persons and administer first aid or cardiopulmonary ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsPool Guard JobsPool Guard Jobs in Chicago, IL

Pool Guard information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$17

$38

How much do pool guard jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for pool guard in Chicago, IL is $17.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $18.08 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.
Pool Guard jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pool Guard job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,852 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Lifeguard (49090)

Chicago, IL

BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF CHICAGO INC
Non-Profits • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF CHICAGO INCexternal

$21 - $21.50/hr

Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

PRIMARY FUNCTION:

The Lifeguard is responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of members in the aquatics area. In addition, the Lifeguard will demonstrate competency to teach and lead specific skills and activities in the water.

KEY ROLES (Essential Job Responsibilities):

  • Provide a high-level of customer service to members, program participants and guests at all times
  • Supervise and guard the pool and aquatic facility and ensure participants adhere to all BGCC aquatic guidelines and procedures.
  • Examine injured persons and administer first aid or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, if necessary, using training and medical supplies and equipment.
  • Rescue distressed persons, using rescue techniques and equipment.
  • Contact emergency medical personal in case of serious injury.
  • Actively participate in obtaining further water safety certifications.
  • Attend all in-service trainings and staff meetings as scheduled by supervisor or center leadership team.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Must carry current/unexpired American Red Cross certification as well as current First Aid, AED, CPR and Oxygen Administration certifications.
  • Physical mobility to properly use aquatic equipment to rescue a 200 lb. person and meet other physical requirements required for job certification.
  • Must be mentally alert to dangerous situations in order to assure the safety of all swimmers.
  • Must be physically and mentally able to respond to emergencies and administer CPR and First Aid effectively.
  • Ability to meet physical requirements based on job description

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITION

  • Must have reliable, insured private transportation
  • Must pass criminal background check which includes Livescan fingerprints
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Ability to pass lifeguard physical prerequisites. Must be able to remain alert and vigilant. Must be able to sit and stand for extended periods, providing total coverage of the pool. Adequate ability to hear noises and distinguish distress signals. Ability to continuously scan all areas of the pool with clear vision. Ability to perform strenuous physical tasks necessary for a water rescue. Ability to communicate verbally, including projecting voice across distance in normal and loud situations.

While performing the responsibilities of this position, these work environment characteristics are representative of the environment this position will encounter. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable people with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts and vehicles. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud.

We offer a competitive part-time benefits package that includes generous paid time off, paid holidays, and a retirement plan. Health insurance benefits are not available for this position.

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