Lifeguards and Swimming Instructors

Employers

There are 129,100 lifeguards, ski patrol, and other recreational protective service workers employed in the United States. Lakes and beaches are not the only work venues for lifeguards and swimming instructors. Hotels, schools, park districts, and health clubs all have swimming facilities, as well as public pools and institutions, such as the YMCA. Most places hire lifeguards and instructors on a temporary or seasonal basis. Opportunities for full-time employment are greater in areas that have warm weather year-round.

Starting Out

There is no standard way to enter this field. Many lifeguards and instructors find employment at facilities they normally frequent, or by word of mouth. The newspaper want ads are a good source—check under "Swimming Instructor" or "Lifeguard." Web sites of municipalities, schools, camps, and other organizations that hire lifeguards and swimming instructors may also provide job listings. Also, consider compiling a list of swimming facilities in your area and send job inquiries to those that interest you.