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.
- 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
- 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
Lifeguard Salaries near Canada
Average Base Pay
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.
Years of Experience Distribution
Lifeguard Insights

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

“You get good stable pay at this job and can get as many hours as you want”
“This job is great for high school and college students looking for part time employment.”
“Fun place to work and they let you pickup more hours if you want to in the summer.”
“I made my best friends here while learning how to work responsibly!! Great work environment”

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

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

“Still awesome and really fun dude”
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.
- Camp Counselor
- Business Development Manager
- Sales Representative
- Regional Sales Manager
Get anonymous career insights from your peers
Insurance
A community for Insurance industry professionals
Question for you all. I was let go from my company for processing policy changes that led to me receiving extra pay...issue is I was not aware until termination day I was even receiving the pay unethically and no training or corrective plan was offered before this situation became known. I lost my job, 250k bonus retirement and confidence in how this company operates. Did I get screwed over?