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Pool Lifeguard Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Lifeguard/CPR Instructor

Waverly, IA ยท On-site

$13.25 - $17/hr

WARTBURG COLLEGE Title of Position - Lifeguard/CPR Instructor If you are a Wartburg Student please ... Knowledgeable of all personnel and operation policies, specific pool regulations, and specific ...

Lifeguard

West Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$14 - $18/hr

Keep pool and pool area clean and safe * Use equipment as assigned * Help record/maintain pool ... Lifeguard Certification * Available to work weekends, evenings and holidays * Must hold current CPR ...

Lifeguard

Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Keep pool and pool area clean and safe * Use equipment as assigned * Help record/maintain pool ... Lifeguard Certification * Available to work weekends, evenings and holidays * Must hold current CPR ...

LIFEGUARD

Sioux City, IA ยท On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

... Lifeguards to ensure the safety and well-being of our members and guests. This is an excellent ... Adheres to and enforces pool rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment ...

LIFEGUARD

Sioux City, IA ยท On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

... Lifeguards to ensure the safety and well-being of our members and guests. This is an excellent ... Adheres to and enforces pool rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment ...

LIFEGUARD

Sioux City, IA ยท On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

... Lifeguards to ensure the safety and well-being of our members and guests. This is an excellent ... Adheres to and enforces pool rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment ...

Lifeguard

Urbandale, IA ยท On-site

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

Lifeguard

Urbandale, IA ยท On-site

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

Lifeguard

Urbandale, IA ยท On-site

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

Lifeguard

Urbandale, IA ยท On-site

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

Showing results 41-60

Pool Lifeguard information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$16

$34

How much do pool lifeguard jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 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:

Infographic showing various Pool Lifeguard job openings in Iowa as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,601 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Lifeguard/CPR Instructor

Waverly, IA โ€ข On-site

Wartburg College
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schoolsย โ€ขย 201 - 500 employees

$13.25 - $17/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 hours ago


Job description

WARTBURG COLLEGE
Title of Position - Lifeguard/CPR Instructor
If you are a Wartburg Student please apply at Handshake. https://www.wartburg.edu/handshake/
Function of Position:
Keep current with American Red Cross standards, teach assigned Lifeguard/CPR classes, and interpret materials provided by the American Red Cross.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Plan, coordinate, and manage courses taught in conjunction with the local Red Cross chapter. Submit lesson plans to Aquatic Director prior to the beginning of new class sessions.
  • Create a positive environment encouraging participants to meet course objectives. Be prepared to answer participants' questions.
  • Knowledgeable of all personnel and operation policies, specific pool regulations, and specific emergency procedures for the pool.
  • Administer and score the final examination when applicable. Ensure that participants meet course completion requirements.
  • Provide positive critique and guidance to those unable to complete course requirements.
  • Submit completed course records and reports to the Red Cross within the time required by the local Red Cross Chapter. Make three copies prior to submitting to the Red Cross for the W records.
  • Be tactful in handling disciplinary problems and must use self-restraint in language, temper, and manners. Act and present themselves in a professional manner at all times and in all situations.
  • Require all patrons to follow personal health and safety regulations as established by the W.
  • Cooperate with others and complete all tasks as assigned by the shift supervisors and the Director of the W.

Supervision:
Assist with the maintenance of the facility and equipment including but not limited to:
1. Maintain program equipment and report all supply needs to supervisor.
2. Clean and disinfect facility area, including sauna and steam room, as directed.
3. Complete maintenance and cleaning "rounds" of the facility as directed.
4. Assist other personnel with their assigned duties
during rush period or minor maintenance work during off periods.
5. Assist in securing the facility prior to leaving.
Minimum Qualifications:
Knowledge of water safety/CPR practices and usage of water safety equipment.
Current Red Cross Lifeguarding Instructor training, CPR for Lay Responder, and First Aid certifications or equivalent required.
Application Procedure:
Please select "Apply for this Position" below.