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Waterfront Lifeguard Jobs (NOW HIRING)

YMCA

Lifeguard - Ocoee Waterfront

Ocoee, TN · On-site

$14/hr

Camp Ocoee is looking for a part-time, as needed Waterfront Lifeguard to help create a safe, positive experience for everyone enjoying the water. You'll monitor waterfront activities, respond when ...

YMCA

Lifeguard - Ocoee Waterfront

Ocoee, TN · On-site

$14/hr

Camp Ocoee is looking for a part-time, as needed Waterfront Lifeguard to help create a safe, positive experience for everyone enjoying the water. You'll monitor waterfront activities, respond when ...

The Fresh Air Fund

Lifeguard - hourly

Fishkill, 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 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 ...

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 ...

JCPRD

Lifeguard I

Lenexa, KS · On-site

$12 - $14/hr

American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification and Waterfront Lifeguard Certification required. * American Red Cross First Aid, CPR & AED Certification required. * Strong communication and customer ...

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Waterfront Lifeguard information

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How much do waterfront lifeguard jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 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.
More about Waterfront Lifeguard jobs

What cities are hiring for Waterfront Lifeguard jobs?

Cities with the most Waterfront Lifeguard job openings:

What states have the most Waterfront Lifeguard jobs?

States with the most job openings for Waterfront Lifeguard jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Waterfront Lifeguard jobs?

For Waterfront Lifeguard jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Waterfront Lifeguard jobs near you
Infographic showing various Waterfront Lifeguard job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 14% 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.

Lifeguard - Ocoee Waterfront

Ocoee, TN • On-site

YMCA
See more jobs at YMCAexternal

$14/hr

Part-time

Posted 7 days ago

YMCA rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 1,993 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Camp Ocoee is looking for a part-time, as needed Waterfront Lifeguard to help create a safe, positive experience for everyone enjoying the water. You’ll monitor waterfront activities, respond when needed, and help ensure participants can enjoy their time on the water safely and confidently. Most shifts will take place on weekends based on retreat and event needs.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

•Maintains constant surveillance of the waterfront area.

• Knows/reviews all emergency procedures and responds to emergency situations immediately in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures, including administering first aid and rescue. Completes related reports as required.

• Maintains effective, positive relationships with participants and other staff.

• Knows, understands, and consistently applies safety rules, policies and guidelines for the waterfront area.

• Performs equipment checks and ensures appropriate equipment is available as needed.

• Checks the waterfront for hazardous conditions upon arrival.

• May perform cleaning of debris on the waterfront area.

• Attends all staff meetings and training as required.

• Other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Must be 16 years of age or older.

• Ability to maintain certification-level of physical and mental readiness.

• Must demonstrate lifeguard skills in accordance with YMCA standards.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Ability to pass lifeguard water test.

• Must be able to remain alert.

• Must be able to sit or stand for extended periods.

• Ability to withstand varying outdoor temperatures.

• Adequate ability to hear noises and distinguish distress signals.

• Ability to continuously scan all areas of the pool with clear vision.

• Ability to perform strenuous physical tasks necessary for water rescue.

• Ability to communicate verbally, including projecting voice across distance in normal and loud situations.

• Lifting, pulling, and carrying up to 50 pounds.

TRAINING:

• CPR for Professional Rescuer, AED, Basic First Aid, O2 certification required upon hire.

• Current Red Cross Lifeguarding and Open Water Certification or obtain within 30 days of hire.

• New Employee Orientation required within first week of hire.

• Other department/job specific training required upon hire.

A BETTER US STARTS WITH U!
Imagine going to work knowing that what you do each day positively impacts people’s lives. We are seeking to add new members to our team who are motivated and committed to serving others. Whether you are experienced or not, we will provide the resources and training needed for you to grow and succeed. If you want more than just a job – if you’re looking to discover a sense of purpose and opportunities to contribute to the greater good – then the Y is the place for you. Join us!

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