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Pool Lifeguard Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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

Lifeguard | Wellmark YMCA

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$16/hr

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 ...

GovernmentJobs.com

Lifeguard/ Swim Instructor

North Liberty, IA · On-site

$13 - $16.75/hr

Lifeguard/Swim Instructor We're always looking for dedicated, talented individuals to join the City ... Knowledge of all pool rules, policies, and procedures. Ability to explain these policies and their ...

SafeSplash

Lifeguard

Waukee, IA · On-site

$12 - $14/hr

Make sure the pool area is always properly supervised and attended in accordance to American Red Cross standards What are we looking for in a Lifeguard? * Maintain Red Cross Lifeguard certification ...

The Outing Club

Certified Lifeguard

Davenport, IA · On-site

$10 - $18/hr

Pool Manager; Manager on Duty General Function: The overriding priority of all Lifeguard staff is to ensure the safety of all users of the pool. The Lifeguard role includes but is not limited to ...

The Outing Club

Certified Lifeguard

Davenport, IA · On-site

$10 - $18/hr

Pool Manager; Manager on Duty General Function: The overriding priority of all Lifeguard staff is to ensure the safety of all users of the pool. The Lifeguard role includes but is not limited to ...

Life Time

Aquatics 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 Metropolitan Atlanta

Lifeguard I

Cherokee, IA · On-site

$14 - $17.75/hr

Under the direction of the Aquatics Director, the Lifeguard maintains safe swimming conditions in ... Maintains active surveillance of the pool area * Knows and reviews all emergency procedures and ...

The Outing Club

Certified Lifeguard

Davenport, IA · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Pool Manager; Manager on Duty General Function: The overriding priority of all Lifeguard staff is to ensure the safety of all users of the pool. The Lifeguard role includes but is not limited to ...

Waukee Community School District

Lifeguard

Waukee, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $17.50/hr

Lifeguard Position Position criteria: * Valid American Red Cross Lifeguarding, may obtain after ... Enforce pool rules and regulations. * Provide general information on pool operations as needed.

ChildServe

Lifeguard (PRN - Flexible Hours)

Johnston, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $17/hr

Located at our Johnston campus, our indoor pool is kept at a comfortable 92 degrees year-round and ... Lifeguard certification through the American Red Cross * Active BLS from the American Heart ...

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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 7, 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 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.

How do I become a pool lifeguard?

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.

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, those with advanced certifications or experience working during peak hours and seasons may command higher pay. Overall, wages vary based on location, employer, and individual qualifications.

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 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 hard is it to be a pool lifeguard?

Being a pool lifeguard requires strong swimming skills, attention to safety, and the ability to stay alert for extended periods. It often involves completing certification courses in CPR and first aid, and working outdoors in various weather conditions. The job can be physically demanding and requires quick decision-making in emergencies.

Is 22 too old to be a pool lifeguard?

Pool lifeguards can be of various ages, and 22 is generally not too old to work in this role. Employers typically require lifeguard certification and good swimming skills, regardless of age, as long as the candidate meets safety and physical requirements.

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 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 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 - Regular Half Time

City of Des Moines

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$15 - $16/hr

Other

Posted 27 days ago

City Of Des Moines (Iowa) rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

98th of 842 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Lifeguard - Regular Half Time

Print (https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/desmoines/jobs/newprint/5200240)

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Lifeguard - Regular Half Time

Salary

$15.00 - $16.00 Hourly

Location

Des Moines, IA

Job Type

Regular Half-Time

Job Number

8445.2.2026

Department

Parks

Division

PK201299 - PK Reichardt Community Center

Opening Date

02/04/2026

Closing Date

8/31/2026 4:00 PM Central

FLSA

Non-Exempt

Bargaining Unit

Non

Occupational Group

Non-Civil Service

Location of Vacancy

Parks and Recreation

Recruitment

Entrance

Selection Method

Applicants deemed most qualified based on qualifications may be contacted for an interview. Qualified applicants who need a reasonable accommodation must inform this office at (515) 283-4213 or TTY at Iowa Relay at 711 or 1-800-735-2942 at the time of application.

  • Description

  • Benefits

  • Questions

General Statement of Duties

Under general supervision, to safeguard swimming pool/aquatic center

patrons in various water areas and depths of aquatic facilities, and to ensure proper use of pool area.

This is a Permanent Part Time position (20 - 29 hours a week) and will be all year round at the Reichardt Community Recreation Center and various outdoor pools in the summer.

Acceptable Experience and Training

  • Must be 15 years of age and able to secure a work permit.

  • Must pass a pre-employment physical and drug screen prior to employment.

Required Special Qualifications

  • Candidates are required to possess a valid and current American Red Cross Lifeguard Training Certification and CPR Certification or have the ability to obtain required certifications by employment start date.

  • Certifications may be obtained through the American Red Cross and must be valid through September 02, 2026.

  • Candidates accepting a conditional offer of employment as a Lifeguard with the City of Des Moines will be offered the opportunity to take the Lifeguard training class through the City of Des Moines (class dates TBD). The registration fee will be waived for those who work as a Lifeguard for the City of Des Moines through August 15, 2026. Those who do not work as a Lifeguard for the City of Des Moines through August 15, 2026 will be required to pay a pro-rated amount for the certification training. Alternatively, lifeguard classes are offered year round throughout the community.

  • Requires satisfactory criminal, sex offender and if applicable driving record background checks.

  • Passing a pre-employment physical and drug screen is required prior to employment.

If you have current certifications such as American Red Cross Lifeguard Training, CPR, AED and/or First Aid, please attach these to your application. Candidates are required to possess a valid and current American Red Cross Lifeguard Training Certification or have the ability to obtain the required certifications by employment start date. Lifeguard Training and CPR certifications must be valid through September 02, 2026.

Requires satisfactory criminal, sex offender and driving record background checks. Passing of a pre-employment physical and drug screen are required prior to hire.

ONLY U.S. CITIZENS AND LEGAL ALIENS ARE ELIGIBLE FOR HIRE. AA/EOE

Examples of Essential Work (Illustrative Only)

  • Enforces all rules and regulations regarding public health and safety;

  • Warns patrons against hazardous practices and instructs patrons on facility rules;

  • Assists persons in distress by applying lifeguarding techniques and performing water rescues;

  • Applies First Aid and Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation as needed. Maintains constant watch for accidents or potential accidents or hazards in all water areas and depths of aquatic facilities;

  • Possess and utilize superior customer service skills;

  • Assists with maintenance work on or around the aquatic facilities;

  • Performs cleaning duties relative to opening, operating, and closing the facilities as well as vacuuming the pool, cleaning floors, counters, restrooms, decks and landscaped areas;

  • Lifeguards may be required to work before or after public swimming hours for special aquatic programs or facility rentals.

What City Of Des Moines (Iowa) employees say

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