Lifeguard Job Description: Key Responsibilities and Qualifications

Your job description is the first point of contact between your company and your new hire. With millions of people searching for jobs on Indeed every month, a great job description can help you attract the most qualified candidates to your open position. To get you started, here are some tips for creating an effective job description. But first you have to get lifeguard certification by any proper association that has been certified.



Lifeguard job title

A great job title usually includes a general term, level of experience, and any special requirements. The general term will optimize your job title to appear in a general search for jobs of the same nature. Experience level will help you attract the most qualified applicants by outlining the amount of responsibility and prior knowledge required. And if your position is specialized, consider including the specialization in the job title as well. But avoid using internal titles, abbreviations, or acronyms to make sure people understand what your post is before they click.

  • Life jacket
  • Lifeguard Chief
  • Lifeguard (Swimming Instructor)
  • Lifeguard (Part-Time)
  • Certified Lifeguard

Lifeguard job summary

A good job description starts with a compelling summary of the position and your role within your company. Your resume should provide an overview of your company and the expectations for the position. Describe the types of activities and responsibilities required for the job position, so job applicants can determine if they are qualified, or if the job is a good fit.

Lifeguard Duties and Responsibilities

The responsibilities and obligations section is the most important part of the job description. Here you should describe the duties this position will regularly perform, how the job works within the organization, and who the job reports to.

  • Open the pool every day and close it every night, depending on the schedule and hours.
  • Treat the pool with an appropriate concentration of chemicals on a regular schedule.
  • Closely monitor pool related activities throughout the shift and identify any safety issues
  • Guide swimmers out of the pool in dangerous or risky situations
  • Closely monitor weather reports to ensure guest safety
  • Organize and supervise pool parties
  • Provide swim lessons and swim team coaching when available
  • Maintain a clean environment in and around the pool
  • Provide assistance to clients when appropriate or necessary

Lifeguard qualifications and skills

Below, describe the required and preferred skills for your position. This can include education, previous work experience, certifications, and technical skills. You can also include soft skills and personality traits that you envision for a successful hire. While it can be tempting to include a long list of skills and requirements, including too many could discourage qualified candidates from applying. Keep your ratings list concise, but provide enough detail with relevant keywords and terms.

  • Current and valid ARC certification
  • First Aid and CPR Certifications
  • Ability to pass the pre-employment practical skills test in the water
  • Experience teaching swim lessons or coaching swim teams is highly desirable
  • Preferably 2+ years of experience as a lifeguard
  • Flexible hours required