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Waterfront Lifeguard Jobs (NOW HIRING)

WMS Lifeguard II

North Port, FL · On-site

$38K - $61K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Ability to physically perform all skills required of a lifeguard with a waterfront endorsement. * Hear noises and distress signals in the aquatic environment, including in the water and anywhere in ...

WMS Lifeguard II

North Port, FL · On-site

$13 - $16.75/hr

Ability to physically perform all skills required of a lifeguard with a waterfront endorsement. * Hear noises and distress signals in the aquatic environment, including in the water and anywhere in ...

Lifeguard/Water Safety Instructor

Everett, WA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

Pool Lifeguard Performs all pool and/or waterfront lifeguard responsibilities (e.g., supervising patrons and their activities, monitoring water activities, applying first aid, enforcing safety rules ...

Lifeguard I

Olathe, KS · On-site

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

WMS Lifeguard II

North Port, FL · On-site

$38K - $61K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Ability to physically perform all skills required of a lifeguard with a waterfront endorsement. * Hear noises and distress signals in the aquatic environment, including in the water and anywhere in ...

Lifeguard I

Lenexa, KS · On-site

$12 - $14/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Lifeguard I

Lenexa, KS

$13.25 - $17/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Lifeguard I

Lenexa, KS · On-site

$13.25 - $17/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Lifeguard I

Lenexa, KS · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Lifeguard I

De Soto, KS · On-site

$13.75 - $17.50/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Showing results 41-60

Waterfront Lifeguard information

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$9

$17

$37

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.
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 job categories do people searching Waterfront Lifeguard jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Waterfront Lifeguard jobs are:

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.

$400/wk

Other

Posted 14 days ago


Salvation Army rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 362 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

573rd of 772 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

Head Lifeguard Position

The Salvation Army Northwoods Camp in Finlayson, MN, is "doing the most good" by providing summer camp opportunities to hundreds of youth from Salvation Army programs across Minnesota and North Dakota. The camp offers youth a safe, fun environment to develop physically, socially, and spiritually while participating in various activities, including swimming, fishing, boating, archery, music, and arts and crafts.

The Head Lifeguard ensures the safe operation of pool and waterfront activities, guides and supports other lifeguards, monitors camper safety, and assists in planning aquatic programs. This role includes guiding campers (ages 6 to 17), participating in camp activities, building positive relationships, and providing spiritual support through devotions and prayers. The position requires on-site residence throughout the temporary summer employment.

Wage: $400 stipend/week

60402 Elbow Lake Rd, Finlayson, MN 55735

Essential Functions (approximate time spent)

  • Aquatic Supervision (30%): Oversee the pool and waterfront areas during all activities, ensuring proper lifeguard coverage and a safe environment.
  • Lifeguard Support (20%): Guide and support other lifeguards, ensuring adherence to policies and procedures. In coordination with management assist with scheduling and assignments.
  • Aquatic Program Planning (10%): Collaborate with camp leadership to plan and implement engaging pool and waterfront activities.
  • Safety and Monitoring (10%): Monitor campers and program areas to ensure the health and safety of all.
  • Camper Guidance (10%): Provide guidance and positive reinforcement and assist camp leadership in holding campers accountable to follow rules and meet expectations.
  • Program Participation (10%): Actively participate in all assigned camp programs and activities, providing support as needed.
  • Relationship Building (5%): Develop and maintain positive rapport with campers and colleagues, teaching and modeling positive relational skills to campers.
  • Spiritual Guidance (5%): Attend spiritual activities and facilitate nightly devotions and prayers with assigned campers.

Education and Experience

  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Waterfront Lifeguard certification required.
  • A High School diploma or equivalent is strongly preferred.
  • Previous experience working with children preferred.
  • Previous experience with various waterfront activities preferred.
  • Lifeguard instructor certification preferred.
  • Must have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and be willing to participate in religious activities.
  • Must pass background checks.

Competencies

  • Flexible interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Self-starter with good attention to detail and initiative.
  • Works with integrity, valuing honesty and diligence.

Working Conditions

  • Must be able to attend staff orientation week.
  • Room and Board provided in addition to a biweekly stipend. Required to live on-site at Northwoods camp during the summer.
  • Position is seasonal, approximately mid-June through July, including nights and weekends.
  • Perform all physical aspects of the position, including being mobile, bending, and reaching.
  • Must be able to lift 25 pounds occasionally.
  • Must be able to fully participate in activities and events (outdoors and indoors).
  • Camp environment; not eligible for a remote-friendly work environment.
  • Must be able to communicate clearly with campers and colleagues.

Supervisory Responsibilities

None.

Travel Requirements

None.

Other Duties

All employees recognize that The Salvation Army is a church and agree to support its religious mission as employees.

This job description is not all-inclusive. It is intended to identify the essential functions of the position. The supervisor may assign other duties, responsibilities, and tasks.

The Salvation Army Mission

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its Mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Fair Chance Hire

The Salvation Army is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates who are back-to-work, US Veterans, people with disabilities, people who have been impacted by the justice system, and/or people without a college degree are encouraged to apply.


What Salvation Army employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


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About Salvation Army

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Industry

Non-profits, retail, amusement, gambling, and recreation and religious organizations

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US