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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

$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 ...

Elmcrest Country Club

Lifeguard

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

Lifeguard Elmcrest Country Club Spend your summer (or season) poolside in a fun, upbeat, and team ... Actively supervise pool areas to ensure swimmer safety * Respond quickly and confidently to ...

Troon

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.

Glen Oaks Country Club

Lifeguard

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$15 - $16.20/hr

Lifeguard Effective Date: Currently seeking Employees to work after-school hours and weekends Mid ... Vacuum pool bottom; empty automatic skimmers; skim bugs and other debris from the surface to ...

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.

SafeSplash + SwimLabs Waukee

Lifeguard

Waukee, IA · On-site

$12 - $14/hr

Maintain constant surveillance of patrons in the pool area; act immediately and appropriately to ... Maintain Red Cross Lifeguard certification, Red Cross CPR/AED certification for adult, infant and ...

YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta

Lifeguard II

Cherokee, IA

$14 - $17.75/hr

The Lifeguard II primary role is to assist the Aquatic Director in supervising the pool area. The Lifeguard II is an experienced YMCA aquatic staff employee. He/she has succeeded in the swim lesson ...

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 ...

Life Time

Lifeguard

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$14 - $17.75/hr

You will monitor the pool deck and maintain safety on water slides. You will help with aquatics ... StarGuardElite Lifeguard, BLS CPR, and First Aid Certified (or bridge toStarGuardwhen current ...

Ymca of Greater Omaha

YMCA Lifeguard

Glenwood, IA · On-site

$15 - $16.05/hr

Lifeguards create a safe and positive atmosphere that welcomes and respects all individuals and ... Maintains active surveillance of the pool area. * Knows and reviews all emergency procedures and ...

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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 Aug 22, 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.

What is a pool lifeguard?

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.

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

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 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 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.

How do I become a pool lifeguard?

To become a pool lifeguard, you typically need to complete a lifeguard training certification, such as the Red Cross Lifeguard Certification, which includes CPR and first aid. You must be at least 15 years old, pass a swimming skills test, and often obtain a valid certification before applying for lifeguard positions.

Where do pool lifeguards make the most money?

Pool lifeguards tend to earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living or in upscale facilities such as private clubs, luxury resorts, or high-end hotels. Additionally, lifeguards with advanced certifications or specialized skills may command higher pay, especially in areas with a strong demand for aquatic safety professionals.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,601 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

University Pool Lifeguard - MIU

Maharishi International University

Fairfield, IA • On-site

$12.50 - $16/hr

Temporary

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

This is a temporary position

Job Summary:

Monitor pool activities and enforce safety protocols to prevent accidents creating a safe and enjoyable atmosphere and adhering to the guidelines learned in lifeguard training and being assertive and courteous when enforcing pool rules, regulations and policy.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Perform rescues, administer first aid, and perform CPR as needed.
  • Test water quality and temperature, reporting any irregularities to management.
  • Inspect and maintain the pool area daily, ensuring cleanliness, unobstructed paths, and proper access to and availability of rescue equipment.
  • Enforce all pool rules and the pool schedule courteously and fairly.
  • Participate in regular in-service training sessions to maintain the required fitness level for lifeguard duties.
  • Provide excellent customer service by answering questions and addressing concerns of all pool patrons.
  • Adhere to all facility rules and policies, including following the directions of the lifeguard on duty when not working.
  • Maintain a professional appearance while on duty, wearing the required swimsuit, staff lifeguard shirt, rescue tube, fanny pack, and whistle.
  • Always keep a rescue tube within arm's reach when on duty, using rescue equipment exclusively for rescues.

Job Qualifications:

  • Current lifeguard certification from a recognized organization (e.g., Red Cross Lifeguarding).
  • Current CPR and First Aid certifications.
  • Experience in lifeguarding or aquatic facility operations is preferred.
  • Strong swimming ability and knowledge of water rescue methods.
  • Excellent observational skills to detect risk and prevent accidents.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with a diverse group of individuals.
  • Must be physically capable of performing all duties associated with the position, including rescuing swimmers in distress.