Lifeguard Average Pay Rate

Lifeguard Salary
Salary Index Chart

The lifeguard salary or average wage for a lifeguarding position $12.21 per hour.  Most lifeguards move on to other positions after 3-5 years with this position.  Pay for lifeguarding jobs does not change much by experience, with the most experienced earning only a bit more than the least.  Below is a third party lifeguard salary pay scale to show how much on average lifeguards get paid in the United States.

Lifeguard Salary:

Salary (United States)

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Lifeguards Job Description:

A lifeguard is responsible for assisting in swimmers’ safety and well being in swimming environments such as public pools and beaches.  Lifeguards hold a physical job that requires the ability to swim and perform rescues for individuals in distress.  Proper knowledge of AED, CPR and similar life-saving techniques is needed; proper first aid skills are mandatory, as is lifeguard certification. The lifeguard’s environment is predominantly outdoors with the exception of indoor swimming pools.  Coworkers are typically fellow lifeguards; aside from coworkers, lifeguards participate in substantial social interaction with beach- and pool goers.  Their hours vary depending on their facility’s hours of operation and available shifts.

A lifeguard must ensure that all beach-or pool goers are abiding by the rules.  Lifeguards must also be knowledgeable about – and able to share – information on current water conditions.  They must be responsive to any emergencies that may arise, such as someone in need of first aid or a potential drowning victim.  Additionally, they look out for unsafe conditions in the water, such as the presence of dangerous objects.

A lifeguard must renew their certification each time it expires.  They are also expected to remain in sufficient physical shape to perform their duties.  Good interpersonal skills and the ability to interact well with pool- and beach goers are needed as well.  Lifeguard salary is mostly based on what the job can pay and very little to do with experience.

Lifeguard Tasks

  • Notify the pool, spa, and sauna maintenance operator to ensure regulations are maintained.
  • Respond to emergency situations in the water or surrounding areas.
  • Administer first aid and contact emergency medical personnel in case of serious injury.
  • Maintain a safe swimming environment and enforce all policies, procedures and regulations.
Lifeguard Salary
PMI Lifeguard by Pool

Lifeguard Reviews

What is it like working as a Lifeguard and Receiving a Lifeguard Salary?

Lifeguard in Nashville:

Pros: The friendly atmosphere, we get into swimming pools for free, everything is good.

Cons: The pay doesn’t seem like enough considering we save lives.

Lifeguard in Watertown: “Fun Working Environment.”

Pros: Getting to socialize with the people I work with and the casual working environment.  Plus, getting paid to be in the sun all day is always a major bonus.

Cons: Sometimes long hours and you are overseeing the safety of others so a lot depends on you.

Lifeguard in Montclair: “Work Flexibility, Stress Level High.”

Pros: Close to where I work. I know what I am doing. Free gym membership. Working around people who want to be fit.

Cons: When Members complain. If other staff show up late for shifts. I don’t know how to move up the ladder. The job can be boring.