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Waterfront Lifeguard Jobs (NOW HIRING)

DiVentures

Pool & Waterfront Lifeguards

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$14 - $17.75/hr

Waterfront Lifeguards for Triathlon events - Waterfront lifeguards are compensated for both mileage ... Lifeguarding classes - we are required to have a lifeguard on duty when conducting a lifeguarding ...

The Fresh Air Fund

Lifeguard - hourly

Beacon, NY · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Lifeguards are key members of the waterfront staff and oversee all swim and boating activities, teach swim lessons, and ensure camper safety. **Applicants need a currently valid American Red Cross ...

Diventures

Pool & Waterfront Lifeguards

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Waterfront Lifeguards for Triathlon events - Waterfront lifeguards are compensated for both mileage ... Lifeguarding classes - we are required to have a lifeguard on duty when conducting a lifeguarding ...

Diventures

Pool and Waterfront Lifeguards

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Waterfront Lifeguards for Triathlon events - Waterfront lifeguards are compensated for both mileage ... Lifeguarding classes - we are required to have a lifeguard on duty when conducting a lifeguarding ...

New

Diventures

Pool and Waterfront Lifeguards

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$13 - $25/hr

Waterfront Lifeguards for Triathlon events - Waterfront lifeguards are compensated for both mileage ... Lifeguarding classes - we are required to have a lifeguard on duty when conducting a lifeguarding ...

New

Town of Barnstable

SEAS Lifeguard

Hyannis, MA · On-site

$20.50 - $21/hr

Seasonal (SEAS) position An individual who ensures the safety of patrons in and around the waterfront by monitoring swimmers and enforcing safety rules and regulations. Lifeguards are skilled ...

Town of Vernon

Lifeguard I - Lifeguard II

CT

$19.94 - $22.09/hr

Waterfront Lifeguard Certification preferred. * Previous experience in aquatics program is preferred. * Reliable transportation. Physical and mental effort and Work Conditions * Must be in good ...

US Navy

Recreation Assistant Lifeguard

Great Lakes, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $18/hr

Lifeguard Duties Pool and/or waterfront lifeguard duties comprise 60% of incumbent's time and include but are not limited to: * Performs all pool and/or waterfront lifeguard responsibilities (e.g ...

Town of Vernon

Lifeguard I - Lifeguard II

Vernon, CT · On-site

$19.94 - $22.09/hr

Waterfront Lifeguard Certification preferred. * Previous experience in aquatics program is preferred. * Reliable transportation. Physical and mental effort and Work Conditions * Must be in good ...

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Waterfront Lifeguard information

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How much do waterfront lifeguard jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for waterfront lifeguard in the United States is $17.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a waterfront lifeguard?

Waterfront lifeguards are trained professionals responsible for ensuring the safety of swimmers and visitors at beaches, lakes, rivers, or other open water environments. Their duties include monitoring water activities, enforcing safety rules, responding to emergencies, and performing rescues when necessary. Unlike pool lifeguards, waterfront lifeguards must be prepared for unique hazards such as currents, tides, and varying water conditions. They often undergo specialized training to handle these challenges. Waterfront lifeguards play a crucial role in preventing accidents and saving lives in natural aquatic settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a waterfront lifeguard?

To thrive as a Waterfront Lifeguard, you need strong swimming ability, knowledge of water safety protocols, and a current lifeguard certification (such as Red Cross or YMCA). Familiarity with rescue equipment, first aid, CPR, and AED use is typically required. Excellent vigilance, quick decision-making, and effective communication are vital soft skills for responding to emergencies and interacting with the public. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of swimmers in open water environments.

What are the common challenges faced by waterfront lifeguards and how can they be managed?

Waterfront lifeguards often face challenges such as unpredictable water conditions, varying weather, and large crowds, which require constant vigilance and adaptability. Managing these challenges involves maintaining excellent physical fitness, staying updated on safety protocols, and practicing clear communication with both team members and the public. Regular training and drills help lifeguards respond effectively to emergencies, while teamwork ensures that coverage is thorough across expansive waterfront areas. Being proactive in identifying hazards and engaging with swimmers can also help prevent incidents before they occur.

What is the difference between Waterfront Lifeguard vs Pool Lifeguard?

AspectWaterfront LifeguardPool Lifeguard
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Waterfront Lifeguard CertificationCPR, First Aid, Pool Lifeguard Certification
Work EnvironmentBeaches, lakes, rivers, outdoor aquatic settingsIndoor or outdoor pools, aquatic centers
Employer & IndustryResorts, beaches, outdoor recreation facilitiesCommunity pools, gyms, aquatic clubs

Waterfront Lifeguards and Pool Lifeguards share similar certifications like CPR and First Aid. However, Waterfront Lifeguards work primarily in outdoor natural water settings such as lakes and beaches, requiring skills for open water rescue. Pool Lifeguards operate mainly in controlled pool environments. Both roles are essential for aquatic safety but differ in environment and specific rescue techniques.

Where do waterfront lifeguards get paid the most?

Waterfront lifeguards tend to earn higher wages in regions with higher living costs and greater demand for aquatic safety services, such as popular tourist destinations or affluent communities. Factors like certifications, experience, and the specific employer also influence pay rates, with private resorts and high-end recreational facilities often offering higher salaries than public beaches or parks.
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Waterfront Lifeguard jobs near you
Infographic showing various Waterfront Lifeguard job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,774 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Summer Waterfront Lifeguard(s)

SUNY Maritime College

Manhattan, NY • On-site

$17 - $25/hr

Other

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description


SUNY Maritime College, located in Throggs Neck (Bronx), New York, is looking for outgoing, responsible individuals to lifeguard both in the pool and at the Waterfront, with an emphasis on leading kayaking and swimming-centered Waterfront activities including swimming during boat excursions.
Responsibilities:
  • Help ensure a safe and fun learning environment
  • Respond to emergencies in accordance with certification and training
  • Perform duties as a lifeguard and water safety instructor, as needed
  • Lead Waterfront kayaking and boat trip swimming activities
  • Prepare, maintain, and properly clean and stow all equipment
  • Assist with other summer programs at the Waterfront, including "Boogie Down to the Sound"
  • Perform all other duties as assigned by Waterfront Staff
Requirements:
Required Qualifications:
  • Current American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification or ability to achieve before camp
  • Fun-loving, team player, positive, can-do attitude
  • Passion for and experience with working with children in a marine environment
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Current American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification with Waterfront Skills
  • Water Safety Instructor Certification
  • Experience in a camp setting
Additional Information:
Classification: FLSA non-exempt position that is eligible for overtime monies.
  • Budget Title: Technical Specialist (CSL)
  • Local Title: Summer Waterfront Lifeguard(s)
  • Line Number: Various
Compensation
  • $17.00 - $25.00 per hour, 40 hours weekly; lunch included
  • Possible dorm room housing available
Review of applications will commence immediately and conclude when position is filled.
Tentative Schedule
  • June 22 - June 26, 2026: on-site camp training & orientation
  • June 29 - August 7, 2026: camp (three 2-week sessions, Monday - Friday)
  • August 10 & 11, 2026: post-camp debrief & pack-up
  • Will be required to work one Saturday, date TBD, at "Boogie Down to the Sound" event
For those desiring additional information, please contact the Waterfront at waterfront@sunymaritime.edu.
SUNY Maritime College is an Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disabled/Affirmative Action employer, committed to recruiting, supporting and fostering a diverse community of outstanding faculty, staff and students. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. For our full non-discrimination statement, see: http://www.sunymaritime.edu/affirmative-action.
SUNY Maritime College is committed to maintaining a safe environment for its students, faculty, staff, volunteers and the general public that use our facilities. Therefore, in order to ensure the hiring of employees of the highest integrity and to maintain a safe campus community, SUNY Maritime College will conduct pre-employment background investigations on all individuals for whom employment is to be offered.
Pursuant to Executive Order 161, no State entity, as defined by the Executive Order, is permitted to ask, or mandate, in any form, that an applicant for employment provide his or her current compensation, or any prior compensation history, until such time as the applicant is extended a conditional offer of employment with compensation. If such information has been requested from you before such time, please contact the Office of Employee Relations at (518) 474-6988 or via email at info@goer.ny.gov.
In accordance with the Title II Crime Awareness and Security Act, a copy of our crime statistics is available upon request by calling (718) 409-7305. It can also be viewed online by selecting University Police > Safety Information > Clery Safety Report (Annual Security & File Safety).
Application Instructions:
Persons interested in the above position should apply online. Please submit:
  • Resume/CV
  • If you are 16-17 years old, you will need an employment certificate, also called working papers, in order to hold a job in New York State
  • Cover Letter
  • Names and contact information of three professional references

Returning Applicants - Login to your SUNY Maritime Careers Account to check your completed application, check/edit your profile or to upload additional documents.

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