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Salary: $18.57 Hourly
Location : Alexandria, VA
Job Type: Temporary
Job Number: 2027-00489
Department: Recreation Parks & Cultural Activities
Division: RECREATION SERV
Opening Date: 07/23/2026
Closing Date: 6/18/2027 11:59 PM Eastern
Bargaining Unit: N/A
Temporary Lifeguard
Aquatics/Recreation Services
Position Overview
The Lifeguard plays a key role in promoting safety and positive experiences at City of Alexandria pools. Lifeguards monitor swimmers, enforce rules, and respond to emergencies, creating a welcoming environment for swimmers of all ages. This seasonal position is an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking their first job or looking to build professional experience in a team-focused setting.
A Message from the Director
Welcome to the City of Alexandria's Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities. I am excited that you are considering joining our team. Every day, we have the privilege of serving a city that values connection, creativity, and community. Our parks, programs, and cultural spaces reflect Alexandria's diversity and spirit, and our people are the heart of it all.
As you explore opportunities within RPCA, know that you are stepping into a department where teamwork, curiosity, and service guide everything we do. We take pride in our work, we find purpose in our impact, and we celebrate the difference each team member makes. Together, we are building something meaningful for the people of Alexandria, and I am grateful for your interest in being part of it.
Hashim T. Taylor, Director
Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities
The Opportunity
Lifeguards are assigned to indoor and outdoor pool facilities throughout the City. Shifts are available during mornings, daytime, evenings, and weekends. Positions are available for summer or year-round. In this position, you'll work as part of a supportive team to:

• Maintain constant surveillance of patrons in and around the pool.
• Prevent and respond to emergencies, including water rescues and first aid.
• Communicate clearly and respectfully with the public and fellow staff.
• Assist with pool setup, cleanliness, and daily operations.

This role also supports swim meets, special events, and other recreation activities as assigned.
Your Impact
As a Lifeguard, you help create a safe space where swimmers can build confidence, improve their health, learn lifelong skills, and make lasting memories. In the process, you'll gain hands-on experience in leadership, teamwork, and public safety, and emergency medical response-skills that serve you well in any future path.
What You Should Bring
Successful candidates demonstrate responsibility, good judgment, and a commitment to safety. Strong communication and teamwork skills are essential.
Candidates with and without current Lifeguard certification are encouraged to apply. Paid training and American Red Cross certification are provided for successful applicants who meet the required prerequisite swimming skills:
Prerequisite 1: Complete a swim-tread-swim sequence without stopping to rest:

1. Jump into the water and totally submerge, resurface then swim 150 yards using the front crawl, breaststroke or a combination of both. (Swimming on the back or side is not permitted. Swim goggles are allowed.)
2. Maintain position at the surface of the water for 2 minutes by treading water using only the legs.
3. Swim 50 yards using the front crawl, breaststroke or a combination of both.

Prerequisite 2: Complete a timed event within 1 minute, 40 seconds:

1. Starting in the water, swim 20 yards. (The face may be in or out of the water. Swim goggles are not allowed.)
2. Surface dive (feet-first or head-first) to a depth of 7 - 10 feet to retrieve a 10-pound object. Return to the surface and swim 20 yards on the back to return to the starting point, holding the object at the surface with both hands and keeping the face out at or near the surface.
3. Exit the water without using a ladder or steps.

About the Department
The Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities (RPCA) enriches the lives of Alexandria residents through diverse programming, well-maintained public spaces, and inclusive cultural activities. RPCA is nationally accredited by the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA), having met rigorous best-practice standards in the industry.
Minimum & Additional Requirements
- CPR/AED first aid training certification
- Lifeguard or similar water rescue certification
Additional Requirements:

• Must be at least 15 years of age by the start of employment.
• Ability to demonstrate the lifeguard prerequisites listed above.

Preferred Qualifications
Previous experience in a customer service, recreation, or aquatic setting. Familiarity with safety protocols and emergency response.
Notes
This position requires pre-employment background checks which include, but are not limited to, a criminal records check and drug screening.
The City of Alexandria is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in its workforce. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, genetic information, military status, or disability.
We are proud to welcome you to explore the City of Alexandria's excellent benefits and programs!
The benefits referenced on this site, may be changed from time to time without notice. Temporary and some part-time positions are not eligible for these benefits. For further information, please contact the Talent Acquisition Team of Human Resources at
01
Do you have a valid American Red Cross Lifeguard certification?

• Yes
• No

02
If yes, please provide the valid dates of your certification.
03
3. Do you have the ability to demonstrate the American Red Cross Lifeguard prerequisites? ( Complete a swim-tread-swim sequence without stopping to rest, and complete a timed event within 1 minute, 40 seconds)

• Yes
• No

04
Are you available to work morning, daytime, evening, and/or weekend shifts during the year and/or during the summer season?

• Yes
• No

05
If yes, what is your availability?
Required Question