What does a Lifeguard do?

A lifeguard is responsible for the general supervision and safety of patrons of an aquatic facility by preventing and responding to emergencies. Lifeguards are superior swimmers who are able to give advice on water safety to patrons, conduct swift water rescues and control unruly behavior if necessary. Lifeguards can have shifts at swimming pools and beaches when the weather permits.

Generally, lifeguards do not need a high school diploma, however, 6 months to 1-year of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities are required. A valid CPR certification and current certification as a lifeguard by a recognized source of training are required. Successful lifeguards are extremely sociable and safety conscious.

What responsibilities are common for Lifeguard jobs?
  • Maintain constant surveillance of patrons in the water
  • Provide emergency care and treatment as required until the arrival of emergency medical services
  • Able to act quickly and appropriately to secure the safety of patrons in the event of an emergency
  • Present professional appearance and attitude at all times, and maintain a high standard of customer service
  • Perform miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned
  • Prepare and maintain appropriate activity reports
  • Knowledge of customer service standards and procedures
  • Able to follow routine verbal and written instructions
What are the typical qualifications for Lifeguard jobs?
  • 2+ years' lifeguard experience preferred
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment practical skills test in the water
  • Ability to work on weekends and evenings
  • Ability to react calmly and effectively in emergency situations
  • 6 months to 1-year experience directly related to the responsibilities specified
  • Highly-skilled in the application of lifeguarding surveillance and rescue techniques
  • Strong knowledge of CPR and emergency medical procedure
  • Ability to accurately prepare routine administrative paperwork
  • Excellent customer service skills
Education--
Work/Life Balance
3.9 ★
Salary Range--
Career Opportunity
3.3 ★
Avg. Experience8+ years

Lifeguard Salaries near Canada

Average Base Pay

$40,503 /yr
Not including cash compensation
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Not enough salaries reported to show distribution
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Glassdoor Estimated Salary

Lifeguard Career Path

Learn how to become a Lifeguard, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.

Lifeguard
$40,503/yr
Senior Lifeguard
$55,438/yr
Lead Lifeguard
$45,693/yr
Lifeguard

Years of Experience Distribution

0 - 1
4%
2 - 4
5%
5 - 7
0%
8+
91%
Not including years spent in education and/or training

Lifeguard Insights

Read what Lifeguard professionals have to say about their job experiences and view top companies for this career.
City of Irvine, CACity of Irvine, CA
Lifeguard
Jul 6, 2021

“Nothing really too bad could get a little tedious and the pay wasn't great but its solid for a highschooler”

Loews Hotels & CoLoews Hotels & Co
Lifeguard
May 17, 2022

“You get good stable pay at this job and can get as many hours as you want”

Westchase Community Association
Pool Lifeguard
Sept 29, 2021

“This job is great for high school and college students looking for part time employment.”

Derry Township Community Center
Lifeguard
Mar 6, 2023

“Fun place to work and they let you pickup more hours if you want to in the summer.”

Harwich Recreation
Lifeguard
Jul 14, 2021

“I made my best friends here while learning how to work responsibly!! Great work environment”

AT&TAT&T
Lifeguard
Aug 10, 2021

“Not many cons all that comes to mind is work life balance can be difficult with hours.”

Highland Country ClubHighland Country Club
Lifeguard
Aug 20, 2021

“I wish I had better benefits and more hours and pay because I'm a single mother and have bills to pay.”

US Air ForceUS Air Force
Lifeguard
Dec 16, 2022

“Still awesome and really fun dude”

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Lifeguard Interviews

Frequently asked questions about the role and responsibilities of a Lifeguard

When working as a Lifeguard, the most common skills you will need to perform your job and for career success are CPR First Aid, Guarding, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, Fluent IN Spanish and English Language.

The most similar professions to Lifeguard are:
  • Camp Counselor
  • Business Development Manager
  • Sales Representative
  • Regional Sales Manager

Related Careers

Camp Counselor
$31,494
25% skills overlap
Business Development Manager
$77,836
13% skills overlap
Sales Representative
$51,226
No skills overlap
Regional Sales Manager
$95,662

Lifeguard jobs