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Pool Lifeguard Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

City of Indianola

Lifeguard - Part-time

Indianola, IA · On-site

$11/hr

The chief responsibility of all pool lifeguards is to provide a safe, healthy, and enjoyable swimming environment. * Know, enforce, and adhere to the safety regulations and pool rules. Be strict, Be ...

City of Indianola

Lifeguard - Part-time

Indianola, IA · On-site

$11/hr

The chief responsibility of all pool lifeguards is to provide a safe, healthy, and enjoyable swimming environment. * Know, enforce, and adhere to the safety regulations and pool rules. Be strict, Be ...

City of Indianola

Lifeguard - Part-time

Indianola, IA

$11/hr

The chief responsibility of all pool lifeguards is to provide a safe, healthy, and enjoyable swimming environment. * Know, enforce, and adhere to the safety regulations and pool rules. Be strict, Be ...

Troon

Lifeguard

Waterloo, IA

$13.25 - $17/hr

Lifeguard Job Requirements and Responsibilities: * Supervises swimming activities at the aquatics ... Inspects pool facilities, equipment, and water to ensure that they are safe and usable.

City of Indianola

Lifeguard - Part-time

Indianola, IA · On-site

$11/hr

The chief responsibility of all pool lifeguards is to provide a safe, healthy, and enjoyable swimming environment. * Know, enforce, and adhere to the safety regulations and pool rules. Be strict, be ...

Troon Golf

Lifeguard

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $17/hr

Lifeguard Job Requirements and Responsibilities: * Supervises swimming activities at the aquatics ... Inspects pool facilities, equipment, and water to ensure that they are safe and usable.

Cherokee Regional Medical Center

Lifeguard

Cherokee, IA

$14 - $17.75/hr

Lifeguard Reports: Fitness Center Manager POSITION SUMMARY: Responsible for maintaining safe swimming conditions in the pool, deck, and surrounding areas. Responds to emergency situations in ...

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All JobsPool Lifeguard JobsPool Lifeguard Jobs in Iowa

Pool Lifeguard information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$16

$34

How much do pool lifeguard jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for pool lifeguard in Iowa is $16.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.88 and $16.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it hard to get hired as a lifeguard?

Getting hired as a pool lifeguard can be competitive, as many pools and beaches seek certified candidates with CPR and first aid training. Employers often look for strong swimming skills, a clean background check, and the ability to work flexible hours, which can influence the difficulty of securing a position.

What are the most common challenges Pool Lifeguards face during a busy swim season?

During peak swim seasons, Pool Lifeguards often encounter challenges such as managing large crowds, staying alert for extended periods, and balancing rule enforcement with positive customer interactions. High noise levels and frequent distractions can make it difficult to monitor all swimmers effectively, so strong focus and teamwork are essential. Lifeguards also need to handle emergencies calmly while coordinating with other staff members to ensure rapid and efficient responses, making communication skills and resilience key to success in this role.

What is the highest paid lifeguard?

The highest paid lifeguards are typically those with advanced certifications, such as lifeguard instructor or advanced rescue certifications, working in high-paying locations like private resorts or luxury pools. Salaries can reach over $20 an hour or more, especially with experience and additional responsibilities.

How do I become a lifeguard at a pool?

To become a pool lifeguard, you typically need to complete a lifeguard training certification that includes CPR, first aid, and water rescue skills. Most employers require candidates to be at least 15 or 16 years old and pass a swimming proficiency test. Maintaining a valid certification is essential for employment in this role.

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

To thrive as a Pool Lifeguard, you need strong swimming ability, knowledge of water safety protocols, and current lifeguard and CPR/first aid certifications. Familiarity with rescue equipment, emergency response systems, and pool maintenance tools is commonly required. Excellent observation skills, clear communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring swimmer safety, preventing accidents, and responding effectively to emergencies.

What is the difference between Pool Lifeguard vs Swim Instructor?

AspectPool LifeguardSwim Instructor
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Lifeguard CertificationCPR, First Aid, Swim Instructor Certification
Work EnvironmentPoolside, monitoring safety, rescue dutiesTeaching swim lessons, instructing students
Primary ResponsibilitiesEnsuring safety, rescuing swimmers in distressTeaching swimming techniques, improving skills

While both roles work in aquatic environments and require CPR and First Aid certifications, Pool Lifeguards focus on safety and rescue duties, whereas Swim Instructors concentrate on teaching swimming skills. The roles often overlap in pool settings but serve different primary functions.

What are pool lifeguards?

Pool lifeguards are trained professionals responsible for ensuring the safety of swimmers at pools by monitoring activities, preventing accidents, and responding to emergencies. They enforce pool rules, perform rescues, administer first aid or CPR if needed, and maintain a safe environment for all patrons. Pool lifeguards are typically certified in lifesaving techniques and must remain vigilant and attentive during their shifts. Their presence helps prevent drowning and other water-related injuries.

Is 22 too old to be a lifeguard?

There is no maximum age limit to become a pool lifeguard, and many employers value maturity and responsibility. As long as you meet the physical requirements and obtain necessary certifications such as CPR and lifeguard training, being 22 is suitable for the role.
What are popular job titles related to Pool Lifeguard jobs in Iowa? For Pool Lifeguard jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Pool Lifeguard jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Pool Lifeguard jobs in Iowa are:
Pool Lifeguard jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pool Lifeguard job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 24% Full Time, 66% Part Time, and 10% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,601 per year, or $16.2 per hour.
Lifeguard | Walnut Creek Family YMCA

Lifeguard | Walnut Creek Family YMCA

YMCA

West Des Moines, IA

$16/hr

Part-time

Posted yesterday

YMCA rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 1,982 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

506th of 710 rated non-profit organizations

Job description

There's nothing like working at the Y!

At the Y, strengthening community is our cause. Our staff members are people who drive this cause - it is because of our drive, our passion, our belief in others, and our belief in the strength of our mission that we are able to make a difference - every day.

POSITION SUMMARY:
As a Lifeguard, you will have the opportunity to provide everyone with a safe place to swim, learn, grow and play. You will maintain a safe swimming environment in the pool, on the pool deck and the surrounding areas. You will be able to relate to people in a positive manner to build relationships with all who enter the pool.

LIFEGUARD CERTIFICATION:IfNOT certified, we will assist by providing the class to obtain certification, as it is a requirement of the position.
JOB LOCATION:Walnut Creek Family YMCA
SHIFTS AVAILABLE: Variety of shifts are available
PAY RATE:$16.00+ / hour - based on experience and skill
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS:August 3, 2026- Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  1. Rescue Ready at all times - maintain constant surveillance of the water and pool deck areas.
  2. Know emergency procedures and is able to demonstrate them.
  3. Respond to all emergencies according the facility's Emergency Action Plan
  4. Enforce rules and procedures.
  5. Keep the pool and pool deck free of obstructions and safety hazards.
  6. Handle equipment as assigned to ensure safety.
  7. Obtain and record chemical readings, and follow safety protocols.
  8. Monitor safety / emergency equipment.
  9. Attend in-service training in accordance with the Association's guidelines.
  10. Perform additional duties as assigned by supervisor or designated staff person.
  11. Demonstrate and support the objectives of the Association as embodied in the mission statement and values.

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