Lifeguard Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of health and safety consciousness, the role of lifeguards is more critical than ever.

As the world awakens to the importance of water safety, the demand for vigilant individuals who can oversee, protect, and ensure our safety in aquatic environments continues to surge.

But what does it really mean to be a lifeguard?

Whether you are:

A job seeker wanting to understand the responsibilities of this role,
A hiring manager looking for the perfect candidate,
Or simply curious about what being a lifeguard entails,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable lifeguard job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive in.

Contents show

Lifeguard Duties and Responsibilities

Lifeguards are responsible for ensuring the safety of people at swimming pools, beaches, and other aquatic facilities.

They play a crucial role in preventing accidents and responding to emergencies in and around the water.

Here are the main duties and responsibilities of a Lifeguard:

Monitor aquatic environments such as pools and beaches to identify potential hazards
Enforce safety rules and regulations to prevent accidents
Keep an accurate count of swimmers to ensure the area is not overpopulated
Provide assistance to swimmers in distress or in danger of drowning
Perform rescues in the event of drowning or swimming accidents, using the rescue techniques and equipment appropriate to the situation
Administer first aid and CPR when necessary
Inspect and maintain all pool equipment for safety and cleanliness
Conduct swimming tests to assess a swimmer’s proficiency
Organize and lead recreational activities for patrons
Report and document incidents and accidents

Lifeguard Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a vigilant lifeguard to ensure the safety of our visitors at our swimming facility.

The lifeguard will explain safety rules to patrons, warn them about unsafe situations, and enforce policies on showers and proper attire.

The successful candidate will also play a key role in preventing and responding to emergencies.

Responsibilities

Monitor swimming areas for unusual or unsafe conditions.
Enforce safety rules and regulations to ensure the wellbeing of all patrons.
Perform rescues in the event of drowning or swimming accidents.
Perform first aid and CPR according to the demands of adverse situations.
Ensure the swimming area is clean and free of hazards.
Maintain a high level of physical fitness.
Teach swimming lessons as directed.
Assist with pool maintenance and cleaning as needed.

Qualifications

Must be a strong swimmer.
Certification in first aid, CPR, and either the Red Cross Lifeguard Training or equivalent.
Experience in a similar role preferred.
High degree of responsibility and alertness.
Strong communication skills.
Physically fit and able to swim long distances if required.

Benefits

Health insurance
Dental insurance
Retirement plan
Paid time off
Professional development opportunities

Additional Information

Job Title: Lifeguard
Work Environment: This job involves working outdoors in a swimming pool setting. It requires physical fitness and a high level of attention.
Reporting Structure: Reports to the Pool Manager or Recreation Supervisor.
Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Pay Range: $20,000 minimum to $30,000 maximum
Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
Employment Type: Full-time/Part-time/Seasonal
Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

What Does a Lifeguard Do?

Lifeguards are trained professionals who ensure the safety of individuals participating in recreational activities in and around water bodies such as swimming pools, beaches, water parks, and rivers.

They are responsible for observing and supervising the activities at aquatic locations to prevent accidents and swiftly respond to emergencies.

They accomplish this by consistently scanning their area of responsibility, recognizing potential dangers and taking preventative measures.

Lifeguards enforce safety rules and regulations to maintain a safe environment for all swimmers and may provide guidance and instruction on swimming and water safety.

In the event of an emergency, lifeguards are trained to perform lifesaving procedures including CPR, first aid, and rescue swimming techniques.

They often use rescue equipment such as tubes, buoys, and backboards to assist in their duties.

Additionally, lifeguards may be responsible for the overall cleanliness and maintenance of swimming facilities, testing water quality and temperature, and completing necessary reports and paperwork.

Communication is a crucial part of their job as they need to effectively inform swimmers of potential hazards and instruct them in safe aquatic practices.

Lifeguard Qualifications and Skills

A proficient lifeguard should possess the following skills and qualifications:

Ability to perform rescue techniques and first aid, including CPR and AED, to respond quickly and efficiently to emergencies.
Strong swimming skills and physical stamina to patrol the pool or beach area, and perform rescues when necessary.
High level of vigilance and situational awareness to constantly monitor the area for any signs of trouble or potential hazards.
Excellent communication skills to clearly and effectively convey safety instructions and rules to swimmers, as well as to coordinate with other lifeguards and emergency personnel.
Interpersonal skills to establish a safe and respectful environment for all individuals at the pool or beach.
Problem-solving skills to swiftly and accurately assess situations and make crucial decisions under pressure.
Physical fitness and endurance to withstand demanding conditions such as heat, cold, and long periods of standing or swimming.
Customer service skills to address any concerns or complaints from swimmers or visitors in a professional and courteous manner.

Lifeguard Experience Requirements

Lifeguard candidates generally go through professional lifeguard training programs, where they gain practical and theoretical knowledge about water safety, rescue techniques, and first aid.

This training often includes hands-on experience in a controlled environment, such as a pool or beach.

Many lifeguards start their career by taking on part-time roles at community pools, water parks or beaches during the summer months.

This allows them to gain practical experience while still under the supervision of more experienced lifeguards.

Candidates with 2 to 3 years of experience may often take on more responsibility, such as overseeing larger or more challenging swimming areas, or even training new lifeguards.

They may also have experience with incident management, including dealing with emergencies and coordinating with emergency services.

Lifeguards with more than 5 years of experience may be ready for roles that involve managing a team of lifeguards, coordinating beach or pool safety protocols, or designing and implementing training programs.

They may also have experience with larger-scale event planning and safety management, such as for swim meets or water festivals.

Lifeguard Education and Training Requirements

To become a lifeguard, individuals typically need to be at least 15 or 16 years old, depending on the facility’s requirements.

They must also have strong swimming skills.

The most vital requirement is the completion of a Lifeguard Training or Certification Program.

These programs are often provided by organizations like the American Red Cross, YMCA, or other recognized institutions.

They include training in water rescue techniques, first aid, CPR, and the use of lifesaving equipment.

Many of these programs require lifeguards to pass both a written exam and a practical test, demonstrating their swimming and rescue skills.

In addition to this, some facilities may require lifeguards to have a certification in Automated External Defibrillator (AED) use, and/or a Water Safety Instructor (WSI) certification if they will be teaching swimming lessons.

Lifeguards are often required to re-certify every few years to ensure their skills and knowledge remain up-to-date.

A high school diploma or equivalent may be required for some positions, especially those at public beaches or large-scale aquatic centers.

While not necessarily required, obtaining advanced lifesaving or first aid courses can be beneficial for career advancement and demonstrating a commitment to the role.

Lifeguard Salary Expectations

The average wage for a lifeguard is around $11.34 (USD) per hour.

The actual earnings can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and the employing organization.

Seasonal lifeguards may earn different rates compared to full-time professional lifeguards.

Lifeguard Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a lifeguard need?

Lifeguards must have a current lifeguard certification, which includes first aid, CPR, and AED training.

This certification can be obtained through organizations such as the American Red Cross.

Lifeguards should also have strong swimming abilities and be physically fit to perform rescues in water and land environments.

What are some essential skills for a lifeguard?

Lifeguards should have strong observation skills to monitor their area of responsibility and identify any potential risks or incidents.

They must also be able to communicate effectively with people of all ages, be able to make quick decisions in emergency situations, and have a good understanding of rescue and first-aid procedures.

What does a typical day look like for a lifeguard?

A typical day for a lifeguard might start with a briefing and inspection of the pool or beach area.

Throughout the day, they would monitor the area, enforce safety rules, and provide help and advice to swimmers.

In case of an emergency, a lifeguard would need to perform rescues or administer first aid.

The day might also include maintaining records and reports.

What qualities make a good lifeguard?

A good lifeguard is vigilant, alert, and always ready to respond to emergencies.

They should have excellent physical stamina, and be calm and decisive under pressure.

They also need to have good interpersonal skills to interact with people of all ages and backgrounds, and be able to enforce rules in a firm yet polite manner.