Temporary Water Rescue Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Salary: $19.14 Hourly
Location : Alexandria, VA
Job Type: Temporary
Job Number: 2026-00048
Department: Recreation Parks & Cultural Activities
Division: RECREATION SERV
Opening Date: 07/24/2025
Closing Date: Continuous
Bargaining Unit: N/A
Temporary Pool Operator/ GS 2/11
Aquatics Department
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
About You
You are service-minded, dependable, and take pride in your work. You bring energy, professionalism, and a sense of purpose to every task, whether maintaining a park, supporting a program, or greeting visitors.
By joining RPCA, you become part of a team that takes pride in serving Alexandria and shaping experiences that last a lifetime.
As part of RPCA, you will be expected to:

• Serve with purpose and approach each day with enthusiasm and a commitment to excellence
• Embody accountability and curiosity by taking initiative, asking questions, and seeking solutions
• Demonstrate teamwork and respect, supporting colleagues and fostering a positive, inclusive environment
• Stay responsive and reliable by being attentive, dependable, and engaged with the community
• Reflect our values through transparency, professionalism, and wholehearted dedication to service

Position Overview
The Pool Operator is a dual-role position that combines lifeguarding duties with the technical responsibilities of operating and maintaining public swimming pools. In addition to monitoring swimmers and ensuring safety, Pool Operators are responsible for daily water quality checks, adjusting chemical levels, and supporting facility maintenance. This seasonal role is ideal for individuals with prior aquatic experience who are looking to take on additional responsibility in a leadership-support capacity.
The Opportunity
Pool Operators are assigned to indoor and outdoor aquatic facilities throughout the City. Shifts are available during mornings, daytime, evenings, and weekends. Positions are available for summer or year-round. In this role, you'll work as part of a supportive team to:
• Perform all core lifeguard duties, including surveillance, rescues, and first aid
• Monitor, record, and adjust water chemistry and chemical feed systems
• Complete daily, weekly, and seasonal maintenance tasks related to pool operations
• Identify and report facility concerns, including mechanical and water quality issues
• Support a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for patrons and staff
This position may also assist with swim meets, special events, and other recreation activities.
Your Impact
As a Pool Operator, you help create a safe, healthy, and fully operational aquatics facilities where swimmers can build confidence, improve their health, learn lifelong skills, and make lasting memories. In return, you'll gain hands-on experience in leadership, teamwork, and public safety, emergency medical response, and aquatic facility management-skills that serve you well in any future path.
What You Should Bring
The ideal candidate is dependable, detail-oriented, and confident working both independently and as part of a team. Strong communication skills and sound judgment are essential.
Candidates must hold a valid pool operator certification at the time of hire. Acceptable certifications include:

• National Swimming Pool Foundation Certified Pool & Spa Operator (CPO)
• Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO) from the National Recreation and Park Association
• A valid Lifeguard certification is also required at the time of hire.

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

Preferred Qualifications

• Must be at least 16 years of age by the start of employment.
  • Current Pool Operator certification (CPO or AFO).
  • Current Lifeguard certification.
    • Prior experience with pool operations or maintenance
    • Strong understanding of pool water chemistry and safety procedures

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 pool operator certification (CPO or AFO)?

• Yes
• No

02
If yes, please list the pool operator certification and expiration date:
03
Do you have a valid lifeguard certification?

• Yes
• No

04
If yes, please list the lifeguard certification and expiration date:
05
Are you available to work morning, daytime, evening, and/or weekend shifts during the year and/or during the summer season?

• Yes
• No

Required Question