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Water Safety Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Every year, Y Splash teaches hundreds of local second graders essential water safety skills through engaging classroom activities and hands-on pool experiences. Volunteers are the heart of this ...

Every year, Y Splash teaches hundreds of local second graders essential water safety skills through engaging classroom activities and hands-on pool experiences. Volunteers are the heart of this ...

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Water Safety information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$17

$24

How much do water safety jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for water safety in Virginia is $17.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $17.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is water safety and why is it important?

Water safety refers to the practices, precautions, and knowledge needed to prevent accidents and injuries in and around water environments such as pools, lakes, rivers, and oceans. It encompasses skills like swimming, understanding water currents, recognizing hazards, and knowing basic rescue techniques. Water safety is crucial because it significantly reduces the risk of drowning and other water-related accidents, especially for children and those who are not strong swimmers. Promoting water safety helps ensure enjoyable and safe experiences in aquatic environments for everyone.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in water safety, and why are they important?

To thrive in Water Safety, you need knowledge of water rescue techniques, first aid and CPR certification, and an understanding of water safety regulations, often supported by lifeguard or aquatic safety training. Familiarity with rescue equipment, AEDs, and incident reporting systems is typically required. Strong situational awareness, communication skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential soft skills. These abilities are vital to preventing accidents, responding effectively to emergencies, and ensuring a safe aquatic environment for all.

What are some common challenges faced by water safety professionals when working in public aquatic facilities?

Water safety professionals in public aquatic facilities often encounter challenges such as maintaining constant vigilance over large or crowded pools, effectively communicating safety rules to a diverse group of patrons, and responding quickly to emergencies. They must also balance routine maintenance tasks and administrative duties while ensuring the safety of swimmers at all times. Working as part of a team, strong collaboration and clear communication are crucial for coordinating responses to incidents and supporting a positive, safe environment.

What is the difference between Water Safety vs Lifeguard?

AspectWater SafetyLifeguard
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Water Safety InstructorCPR, First Aid, Lifeguard Certification
Work EnvironmentPools, beaches, water parks, aquatic centersPools, beaches, water parks, aquatic centers
Job FocusPreventing accidents, water safety educationMonitoring swimmers, rescue, enforcing rules

Water Safety professionals focus on preventing water-related accidents through education and safety protocols, while Lifeguards primarily monitor swimmers and perform rescues. Both roles require similar certifications and work environments, but their core responsibilities differ. Water Safety is broader, emphasizing prevention and instruction, whereas Lifeguards are on-the-spot rescuers ensuring immediate safety.

What are water safety jobs?

Water safety jobs involve supervising and ensuring the safety of individuals in aquatic environments such as pools, beaches, or water parks. Common roles include lifeguards, water safety instructors, and aquatic safety officers, often requiring certifications like lifeguard training and strong swimming skills.

What are popular job titles related to Water Safety jobs in Virginia?

For Water Safety jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Safety jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Safety jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Water Safety job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,413 per year, or $17 per hour.

Temporary Recreation Leader III- Water Safety Instructor

City of Alexandria

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$29.24/hr

Temporary

Re-posted 16 days ago


City Of Alexandria (Louisiana) rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

456th of 856 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

TEMPORARY RECREATION LEADER III WATER SAFETY INSTRUCTOR RECREATION SERVICES Position Overview The Recreation Leader III-Water Safety Instructor provides American Red Cross Learn to Swim classes for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, children and adults. The leader provides water safety skills and awareness to our community residents. The City's aquatics program is extremely popular, especially with preschool age children.

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 The Recreation Leader III-Water Safety Instructor plans and teaches a variety of swim lessons for all ages and abilities, coordinated by the Recreation Department, which occur on weekday evenings and weekend mornings year-round, and also during the day in the summer.

Swim lessons are held at indoor and outdoor pools. The Recreation Leader III-Water Safety Instructor will perform related duties as required. Your Impact As a Water Safety Instructor, you will: Plan and lead engaging swim classes that enhance physical health, emotional well-being, and confidence in the water.

Facilitate a welcoming environment that promotes safety, learning, inclusivity, and participation. Work collaboratively with City staff and utilize department resources for program success. What You Should Bring The ideal candidate will demonstrate a commitment to instructional excellence, demonstrate strong customer service skills, and be available for lesson assignments occurring on evenings and/or weekends.

Candidates with and without a valid Rec Cross Water Safety Instructor certifications are encouraged to apply. Paid training and certification are provided for successful job candidates who can demonstrate the Water Safety Instructor prerequisites: Swim the following strokes consistent with American Red Cross Level 4 stroke performance criteria: Front crawl-25 yards Back crawl-25 yards Breaststroke-25 yards Elementary backstroke-25 yards Sidestroke-25 yards Butterfly-15 yards Maintain position on back for 1 minute in deep water (floating or sculling) Tread water for 1 minute 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 High School Diploma and three (3) years of related experience or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. First Aid training. Additional Requirements: Be at least 16 years of age.

Ability to demonstrate Water Safety Instructor prerequisites. Preferred Qualifications Valid American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor certification. Previous experience leading aquatic programs and water safety instruction.

Excellent communication skills. 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.


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