Head Lifeguard - Summer 2026 - Various Mediterranean Resorts

Neilson Active Holidays; East Midlands; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A seasonal resort company is seeking a Head Lifeguard for Summer 2026 in various Mediterranean locations. The role requires overseeing a Lifeguard team, ensuring pool safety, and providing excellent customer service. Candidates need valid National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) and First Aid certification. The role offers competitive pay of up to £620 PCM gross along with accommodation, meals, and additional benefits. It's a fun and dynamic environment where staff can enjoy their time while ensuring guest safety.

Benefits

Shared accommodation

Flights and meals included

Emergency medical & dental insurance

Family holiday discounts

Opportunities for progression

Qualifications

• Must have a valid First Aid certificate.
• Experience in lifeguarding and customer service is essential.
• Ability to work independently and in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the Lifeguard team and pool safety.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety standards.
• Provide effective customer service and interaction.

Skills

Excellent communication

Customer service

Team leadership

Lifeguarding techniques

Time management

Education

National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ)

ASA / UKCC Level 2 in Teaching Aquatics

Job description

Head Lifeguard - Summer 2026 - Various Mediterranean Resorts

LOCATION : Europe - We have various Neilson Beach Clubs across the Mediterranean

DATES : Summer seasonal, April until November

REPORTS TO : Active Manager

SALARY : Up to £620 PCM gross + Shared accommodation + flights, meals + great overall package

JOB DETAILS

You will oversee the Lifeguard team and the safety / welfare of anyone using our pool facilities. You will ensure that while on duty, your team always remains alert and professional to monitor all activities in the pool area constantly.

Your team will ensure that anyone using our pools follows the rules and regulations, cautioning any swimmers against unsafe practices and deterring those causing a safety hazard to others.

In an emergency, your team will be ready to jump to the rescue of anyone in danger. They will remain calm, confidently manage the situation, and correctly administer any necessary First Aid.

They must be able to interact well and deliver excellent customer service; however, the primary purpose of this role is to maintain a safe environment around the pool, foresee any dangers and prevent accidents.

Working for Neilson is more than a job; it's a lifestyle. Spend the summer season based in one of our beautiful beach club resorts, where it's all about sharing your passion for the activities you love. You'll be working hard, but the work is fun, and there's always plenty of time to play.

We're looking for friendly, energetic, and approachable people who can build rapport with ease. Individuals who can instil confidence that every element of a Neilson holiday is delivered by a team who cares.

All Neilson activestaff are DBS-checked.

JOB CRITERIA & RESPONSIBILITIES

• To ensure that your team consistently meets and maintains all the requirements detailed below.
• The ability to react quickly, calmly, and effectively in emergencies.
• Ensure the highest level of health and safety standards are followed.
• Develop positive working relationships with all departments.
• Maintain excellent customer service.
• Create a pool environment that is always safe for both staff and guests.
• Quickly report any maintenance and repair issues.
• Ensure the security of all Neilson pool equipment.
• Ensure that the appearance of the pool area always meets guest expectations.
• Liaise regularly with your line Manager to order any required spares and equipment.
• Ensure a smooth daily set‑up and pack‑down.
• Proactively assist all guests using the equipment around the pool.
• Work in line with your centre-specific operating procedures.
• Monitor all aspects of the pool operation for risk and update your line Manager as required.
• Promote and assist in delivering our ‘learn to swim’ group sessions and private swimming lessons.
• Assist the Fitness Instructors with any pool‑based classes as required.
• Coordinate with all departments to support hosting social events and deliver briefings.
• Be prepared to move between resorts if required by the operational needs of the business.
• Willing to help out and cover in other departments as required by the business.
• Airport transfers: As the first point of guest contact, you will ensure that your team is confident in consistently delivering excellent, personable, informative, and efficient airport transfers to and from the resort.
• Assist with coordinating the set‑up of the beach and hotel at the start of the season and the pack‑down of the resort at the end of the season.

FIRST AID REQUIREMENTS

A First Aid certificate is a prerequisite for ALL Neilson Active job roles. This must be valid for the duration of your contract, which we will validate as part of your onboarding process.

You should have completed your First Aid as part of your NPLQ Lifeguarding course, so please ensure this is valid.

Your First Aid certification must be a minimum 6‑hour practical, in‑person course. Online First Aid courses will not be accepted.

You can search for First Aid at work courses below :

• Red Cross
• St Johns Ambulance

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

• National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) or equivalent – (This must be valid for the duration of the contract).
• ASA / UKCC Level 2 in Teaching Aquatics, SEQ or equivalent is highly beneficial.
• Previous experience of working as a lifeguard is essential.
• Previous customer service experience is essential.
• An understanding that covers the application of lifeguarding surveillance and rescue techniques.
• Able to work using own initiative.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• The ability to work well under pressure in a fast‑paced environment.
• A dynamic and flexible approach to adapting to weather conditions.
• Strong organisational and time management skills.
• Flexible to work all the required hours to complete the job well.
• The ability to confidently hold a conversation and instruct in English.

If you would like to gain the required qualifications for this job, please visit the website below :

https://www.rlss.org.uk/national-pool-lifeguard-qualification

https://www.swimming.org/sport/swimming-coaching/

WORKING FOR NEILSON

There is much to be gained from working anywhere within the Neilson programme. The people skills, the life skills, the confidence you'll develop, and the overall experience will stay with you forever.

You will have the time of your life, make a bunch of new friends, enjoy mad adventures, and create stories you'll be telling for years.

The package includes :

• Staff accommodation provided on a shared basis – No bills to stress about
• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner while on duty
• Travel to and from the resort, within Europe (subject to our staff travel policy)
• Visa & permits if applicable (UK Passport holders)
• Full training, including e‑learning packages
• Opportunities for progression via the jump‑up / Jump higher programmes
• Uniform specific to your job role
• One day off per week + accrued holidays
• Mate's rates & family holiday discounts
• Emergency medical & dental insurance
• Opportunities to obtain additional qualifications via the Neilson Academy
• Feel free to use the resort equipment in your spare time
• 24/7 access to emergency assistance support – Independent mental health support service