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Red Cross Instructor Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Lifeguard/Swim Instructor The Lifeguard/Swim Instructor is responsible for providing a safe and ... The ideal candidates will possess American Red Cross Lifeguard, CPR for the Professional Rescuer ...

Lifeguard Swim Instructor

Camas, WA

$15.75 - $20/hr

Lifeguard/Swim Instructor The Lifeguard/Swim Instructor is responsible for providing a safe and ... The ideal candidates will possess American Red Cross Lifeguard, CPR for the Professional Rescuer ...

Lifeguard / Swim Instructor

Camas, WA · On-site

$17.13 - $22/hr

Lifeguard/Swim Instructor The Lifeguard/Swim Instructor is responsible for providing a safe and ... The ideal candidates will possess American Red Cross Lifeguard, CPR for the Professional Rescuer ...

Our Swim Instructors provide a fun, relaxing, and welcoming pool experience, while ensuring a safe ... Lifeguarding certification from Red Cross * WSI Certification Required * This position requires ...

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Showing results 1-20

Red Cross Instructor information

See Portland, OR salary details

$35.5K

$63.2K

$126.2K

How much do red cross instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for red cross instructor in Portland, OR is $63,164.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,700.00 and $68,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a CPR instructor a good side hustle?

A CPR instructor can be a good side hustle for individuals with certification in CPR and first aid, as it offers flexible scheduling and the opportunity to earn additional income. The role involves teaching life-saving skills to various groups, often on evenings or weekends, making it suitable for those seeking part-time work. However, income varies based on location, experience, and the number of classes taught.

What is the difference between Red Cross Instructor vs Lifeguard?

AspectRed Cross InstructorLifeguard
Required CertificationsRed Cross First Aid, CPR, AED Instructor certificationsLifeguard certification, CPR, AED
Work EnvironmentClassroom, training facilities, community centersPool, beach, aquatic facilities
Employer & Industry UsageRed Cross, community organizations, training providersPublic pools, beaches, water parks

Red Cross Instructors focus on teaching first aid, CPR, and AED skills, often working in classroom settings. Lifeguards primarily supervise aquatic environments to ensure safety. While both roles require CPR and first aid certifications, Instructors specialize in training others, whereas Lifeguards focus on direct water safety and rescue. They often work together in aquatic safety programs but serve different functions within the industry.

What are Red Cross Instructors?

Red Cross Instructors are certified professionals who teach lifesaving skills such as first aid, CPR, AED use, water safety, and disaster preparedness to individuals and groups. They are trained by the American Red Cross or affiliated organizations to deliver standardized courses and ensure participants gain the knowledge and confidence needed to respond to emergencies. Instructors are responsible for leading classes, demonstrating techniques, evaluating student performance, and maintaining certification through ongoing training.

Does Red Cross pay well?

Red Cross instructors typically earn modest wages that vary by location and experience, often supplemented by certifications and training. Compensation is generally considered average for part-time or volunteer roles, with some paid positions offering higher pay based on responsibilities and hours worked.

How much do CPR instructors get paid per class?

CPR instructors typically earn between $20 and $50 per class, depending on factors such as location, experience, and the organization they work for. Payment may also vary based on whether the instructor is certified in additional skills or teaches multiple classes daily.

How do I become a Red Cross instructor trainer?

To become a Red Cross instructor trainer, you must first be a certified instructor in the relevant discipline, such as CPR, first aid, or lifeguarding. Then, you need to complete the instructor trainer course offered by the Red Cross, which includes training on teaching skills and program requirements, and pass the associated assessments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Red Cross Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Red Cross Instructor, you need expertise in first aid, CPR, and emergency response, typically backed by certification as a Red Cross Instructor. Familiarity with instructional materials, audiovisual equipment, and online learning platforms is commonly required. Strong communication, patience, and organizational skills help instructors effectively teach diverse groups and adapt to various learning styles. These skills ensure participants gain the knowledge and confidence necessary to respond effectively in emergency situations.

What are some common challenges Red Cross Instructors face when teaching classes, and how can they be addressed?

Red Cross Instructors often encounter students with varying skill levels and learning styles, which can make it challenging to ensure everyone grasps essential lifesaving techniques. Managing larger class sizes and keeping participants engaged during hands-on activities is also common. To address these challenges, instructors are encouraged to use interactive teaching methods, provide individualized feedback, and create a supportive learning environment. Collaboration with co-instructors and ongoing professional development can further help instructors adapt and improve their teaching strategies.
What are popular job titles related to Red Cross Instructor jobs in Portland, OR? For Red Cross Instructor jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Red Cross Instructor jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Red Cross Instructor jobs in Portland, OR are:
Infographic showing various Red Cross Instructor job openings in Portland, OR as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 50% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,164 per year, or $30.4 per hour.

American Red Cross, First Aid and CPR Instructor, PT with Benefits

American Red Cross

Portland, OR • On-site

$19 - $23.75/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


American Red Cross rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 261 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

456th of 682 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

Please use Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox when accessing Candidate Home.
By joining the American Red Cross you will touch millions of lives every year and experience the greatness of the human spirit at its best. Are you ready to be part of the world's largest humanitarian network?
Join us-Where your Career is a Force for Good!
Job Description:
WHY CHOOSE US?
As one of the nation's premier humanitarian organizations, the American Red Cross is dedicated to helping people in need throughout the United States and, in association with other Red Cross networks, throughout the world. When you join our team, you have a direct impact on a meaningful mission, and you can help save lives every day. If you share our passion for helping people, join us in this excellent career opportunity. Work where your career is a force for good.
We are committed to the diversity of our workforce and to delivering our programs and services in a culturally competent manner reflecting the communities we serve. Our work environment is collaborative, respectful, and inclusive with a focus on building allyship and a culture of belonging that empowers all team members. Come to learn, grow, and succeed while sharing your passion for making a difference.
The Red Cross is proud to offer resource groups that strengthen our culture of inclusion and support. These communities connect employees and volunteers through shared identities and experiences, providing meaningful opportunities for mentorship, networking, and advocacy. Through these groups, team members are empowered to share insights, elevate concerns, and contribute to a more inclusive organization.
At the American Red Cross, your uniqueness can shine!
We are currently seeking a part-time Training Services First Aid and CPR Instructor for the Portland, OR area.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Responsible to deliver corporate classes to community groups at corporate facilities and/or at community or corporate sites. Responsible to provide high quality instruction per program guidelines, provide the necessary information/reports in a timely manner and properly maintain equipment in their possession. Provide support, development and/or leadership guidance to all participants.
Perform all duties and responsibilities in compliance with standard operating procedures and other applicable Federal, State, and local regulations.
The mission of the American Red Cross is to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. We help increase the preparedness of our communities by offering courses in First Aid, CPR/AED, Babysitter's Training, Lifeguard Training, Healthcare, and other certification courses. American Red Cross Health and Safety instructors are an elite group of professionals who teach valuable lifesaving skills to 12 million people each year in businesses, schools, and communities.
WHERE YOUR CAREER IS A FORCE GOOD (Key Responsibilities):
  • Instruction: Teaches Red Cross Health and Safety courses within their current certifications to businesses and to the community. Confirms course at least 3-5 business days before the scheduled course. Must arrive to teaching site a minimum 30 minutes before class is to begin.
  • Supply Chain/Logistics: Responsible for maintaining, managing, and storing all assigned equipment, including storage at assigned work location and transporting equipment in personal vehicle. Responsible for re-ordering all necessary equipment at least once per month and maintaining and managing an active inventory of supplies at all times. Instructors are responsible for transporting, loading/unloading, carrying and/or lifting equipment as necessary at assigned teaching locations. At conclusion of class, is responsible for the cleaning equipment according to established decontamination guidelines and reporting any maintenance issues to the appropriate logistics staff member.
  • Quality Assurance: Responsible for applying quality assurance and control programs. Integrates quality improvement activities and measures in overall service provision. Ensures that the proper safety measures are in place to protect customers and staff who participate in the training activities.
  • Resource Management: Responsible for efficient and effective use of resources. Adheres to the financial and registration policy regarding unregistered students in Community classes.
  • Communications/Reporting: Engages in regular communications with Training Specialist regarding course updates and latest changes to products/services. Actively submits unavailability requests, as necessary, in Schedule when not available to be assigned to classes. Submits training activity and other course related records according to standard timelines. Where applicable, training and course-related records must be submitted electronically using the American Red Cross web-based learning center. The instructor is required to use the corporate email account (@Redcross.org) issued to him/her upon hire, for all American Red Cross related correspondence.

• Standard Schedule: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday
The salary range for this position is $18.35-$20.00 an hour.
Note that the American Red Cross sets salary ranges aligned to a specific geographic location in which the work is performed. The stated salary range in this posting is an average. The specific salary information will be shared at the time of phone screening based upon your location and qualifications
This position is not eligible for relocation assistance
WHAT YOU NEED TO SUCCEED:
  • Education: High School Diploma or equivalent (GED). Current certification to be an instructor in discipline is desired. Additional training and certification will be provided to qualified candidate after hire through American Red Cross Health & Safety Service courses. Once certified, the instructor must maintain current basic and instructor level certifications for the courses they have been hired to teach.
  • Experience: Previous experience in education, adult training or service industry preferred. Basic computer and email skills and demonstrated ability to utilize MS Office programs
  • Comfort and experience in using audio-visual technology (computer/LCD, PowerPoint, etc.) for educational delivery.
  • Must have a Valid Driver's License, Reliable transportation, and Proof of Insurance
  • Travel: Ability to travel regionally 50-75%.
  • Skills and Abilities: Must have strong presentation abilities and demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to communicate course material in a clear and understandable manner. Customer service orientation. Ability to teach effectively in an adult learning environment.
  • Other: Flexible schedule required during the day, evening, or weekends.
  • Physical Requirements:
    The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to handle or feel; and talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to reach with hands and arms. The employee must be able to use fingers to grasp, move and manipulate small objects. The employee must use the stomach and lower back muscles to support the body for long periods without getting tired. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 15 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. The employee must have the ability to speak clearly so listeners can understand and understand the speech of another person. The work environment will consist of moderate noise (i.e. business office with computers, phones and printers, light traffic). The employee must have the ability to work in a small cubicle and have the ability to sit at a computer terminal for an extended period of time.
  • DISCLAIMER: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.

WHAT WILL GIVE YOU THE COMPETITIVE EDGE: Knowledge of Red Cross training
BENEFITS FOR YOU:
We take care of you, while you take care of others. As a mission-based organization, we believe our team needs great support to do great work. Our comprehensive benefits help you in balancing home and work. With our resources and perks, you have amazing possibilities at the American Red Cross to advance the learn.
• Medical, Dental Vision plans
• Health Spending Accounts & Flexible Spending Accounts
• PTO + Holidays
• 401K with 6% match
• Paid Family Leave
• Employee Assistance
• Disability and Insurance: Short + Long Term
• Service Awards and recognition
Apply now! Joining our team will provide you with the opportunity to
make your career a force for good!
The American Red Cross is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, San Diego Fair Chance Ordinance, the California Fair Chance Act and any other applicable state and local laws.
AmeriCorps, the federal agency that brings people together through service, and its partners - the Peace Corps, AmeriCorps Alums, National Peace Corps Association, and the Service Year Alliance - launched Employers of National Service to connect national service alumni with opportunities in the workforce. American Red Cross is proud to be an EONS partner and share our employment opportunities with the network of organizations.
Interested in Volunteering? Visit redcross.org/volunteertoday to learn more, including our most-needed volunteer positions.
To view the EEOC Summary of Rights, click here: Summary of Rights

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