Lifeguard

Your Fit

Income

$38K

Preparation

Some

Growth

6.2%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Lifeguard?

Lifeguards are trained professionals responsible for overseeing safety at aquatic environments like pools, beaches, and water parks. They monitor water activities, perform rescues, and provide first aid to ensure the safety of swimmers and visitors.

Sample job titles:

Lifeguard, Ocean Lifeguard, Pool Attendant, Ski Patroller

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Lifeguard.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Lifeguard earn

Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2024 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Lifeguard.

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$31K per year	$33K per year	$38K per year	$48K per year	$62K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $27K below the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Lifeguard do?

Work environment

Lifeguards typically work at swimming pools, beaches, lakes, water parks, and resorts. The environment is outdoors and can be affected by weather conditions. Lifeguards must be prepared to work in various weather, often during busy seasons, and usually in shifts, including weekends and holidays.

Quick task list

Monitors aquatic activities to prevent accidents.
Performs rescues and provides first aid in emergencies.
Enforces safety rules and regulations.
Educates visitors about water safety.
Maintains cleanliness and order in the aquatic area.
Conducts water tests and checks for hazards.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Pool Lifeguard: Specializes in overseeing safety at swimming pools, both public and private.
Beach Lifeguard: Focuses on ocean or lake environments, dealing with more complex conditions like currents and tides.
Water Park Lifeguard: Works in water park settings with unique attractions and large crowds.
Rescue Diver: Advanced training for underwater rescues and recoveries.
Aquatic Supervisor: Manages a team of lifeguards and oversees the operation of aquatic facilities.

Description

Lifeguarding is a critical role that requires vigilance, physical fitness, and a strong sense of responsibility. Lifeguards must continuously monitor their environment, ensuring the safety of all swimmers and responding swiftly to emergencies. They must be proficient swimmers and trained in lifesaving techniques, including CPR and first aid.

Communication skills are essential, as lifeguards often educate the public about water safety and enforce regulations. They need to maintain a calm demeanor in stressful situations and be able to make quick decisions. Regular physical training and skill updates are crucial to ensure readiness for any emergency.

This occupation suits those who enjoy working outdoors, are passionate about water sports, and want to play a role in ensuring public safety. Lifeguarding offers opportunities for personal growth, development of leadership skills, and the satisfaction of contributing to a safe recreational environment.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Ensuring the safety and well-being of swimmers and visitors.
Being part of a team dedicated to public service and safety.
The opportunity to work in a dynamic and active outdoor environment.

You might make a good Lifeguard if you are...

A strong and proficient swimmer.
Alert and able to remain focused for extended periods.
Capable of staying calm and effective in emergency situations.
Good at communicating and enforcing rules.
Physically fit and able to perform rescues and first aid.

Pros:

Rewarding work in ensuring the safety of others.
Opportunities to work in various and often enjoyable environments.
The physical and active nature of the job.

Cons:

The responsibility can be stressful, especially in emergencies.
Work is often seasonal, especially at outdoor facilities.
Exposure to various weather conditions and long periods outdoors.

How to become a Lifeguard

Typical education

The primary requirement is a high school diploma or equivalent, along with lifeguard training and certification from recognized organizations. Some lifeguards pursue additional training in water safety, first aid, and CPR.

High school preparation

Courses:

Physical Education, especially swimming and water sports.
Health classes to learn basic first aid and CPR.
Leadership or communication courses.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Joining swim teams or water sports clubs.
Volunteering in community safety programs or first aid organizations.
Participating in lifeguard training programs if available.

Preparation after high school

Obtain certification in lifeguarding, CPR, and first aid from recognized organizations like the American Red Cross.
Consider additional training for specialized areas like open water lifeguarding or rescue diving.
Gain experience through part-time or seasonal lifeguard positions.

More resources

American Red Cross Lifeguarding - Offers lifeguard training and certification courses.
United States Lifesaving Association (USLA) - Provides information on lifeguarding standards and beach safety.
YMCA Lifeguard Program - Offers lifeguard training and certification opportunities.
National Aquatic Safety Company (NASCO) - Specializes in aquatic safety and lifeguard training.
Lifeguard-Pro - A nationally recognized organization offering lifeguard certification courses, including online options.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.