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Pool Lifeguard Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ... Lifeguard and First Aid Certified * Ability to work in a stationary position and move about the ...

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 ...

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 ...

Lifeguard

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $17/hr

You will monitor the pool deck and maintain safety on water slides. You will help with aquatics ... Lifeguard and First Aid Certified * Ability to work in a stationary position and move about the ...

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 Lifeguard

Council Bluffs, 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 ...

Lifeguard

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $17/hr

You will monitor the pool deck and maintain safety on water slides. You will help with aquatics ... Lifeguard and First Aid Certified * Ability to work in a stationary position and move about the ...

Lead Lifeguard

Davenport, IA

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Aquatics/Wellness Director and Pool Manager General Function: Leadership of lifeguard staff. Ensuring that all assigned daily tasks are completed in a safe and timely manner. Applicants should ...

Lead Lifeguard

Davenport, IA · On-site

$10 - $18/hr

Aquatics/Wellness Director and Pool Manager General Function: Leadership of lifeguard staff. Ensuring that all assigned daily tasks are completed in a safe and timely manner. Applicants should ...

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 ...

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 ...

LIFEGUARD CERTIFICATION: If NOT certified, will be required to take the American Red Cross ... Keep the pool and pool deck free of obstructions and safety hazards. * Handle equipment as assigned ...

Showing results 21-40

Pool Lifeguard information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$16

$34

How much do pool lifeguard jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 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.
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Infographic showing various Pool Lifeguard job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 22% Full Time, 67% Part Time, and 11% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,601 per year, or $16.2 per hour.
Lifeguard

$14 - $17.75/hr

Other

Posted yesterday


Job description

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 accordance with policies and procedures. Enforces pool safety regulations. Assist with the general cleaning of the facility and perform other related duties as required.