Lifeguard

The St. James; Springfield (VA); On-site; USD 18,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

The St. James Department of Safety & Rescue is hiring for the Fall 2026 Lifeguard season (Sept 2, 2026 – Jan 14, 2027). You will join a professional rescue team working across our indoor water park, contracted waterfronts, and events, with starting pay at $16.25/hour plus performance bonuses.

Training with EMTs, Paramedics, and Safety Officers will prepare you for real operations. We seek dependable, coachable lifeguards who stay calm under pressure and are committed to growth.

Qualifications

• At least 17 years old by the start of the season.
• Strong swimming ability.
• Customer service, athletics, or team experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prevent emergencies through proactive surveillance and guest engagement.
• Respond confidently to aquatic and medical emergencies.
• Deliver CPR, first aid, and emergency care until EMS arrives.
• Conduct facility safety inspections and maintain operational readiness.
• Work as part of a disciplined rescue team committed to continuous improvement.

Skills

Strong swimming ability

Customer service

Team experience

Job description

Fall 2026 LifeguardDepartment of Safety & RescueSeason: September 2, 2026 – January 14, 2027Hiring: 25–30 LifeguardsPay: Starting at $16.25/hour + performance bonuses availableJoin a Professional Rescue TeamNot everyone is built for this work.At The St. James Department of Safety & Rescue, we don't just certify lifeguards—we develop professional rescuers.Our mission extends well beyond the pool. From competitive swimming and our indoor water park to contracted waterfronts, open water triathlons, and special events throughout the year, our team protects thousands of guests across some of the region's most dynamic aquatic environments.You'll train alongside experienced lifeguards, EMTs, and Safety Officers who remember what it was like to be new and are committed to helping the next generation succeed. You'll be challenged, supported, and surrounded by teammates who expect the best from one another because that's what this work demands.If you're looking for more than just a part-time job—if you're looking for a team that will challenge you, invest in your growth, and have your back when it matters most—you'll find it here.Be Part of Something Greater.What Sets DSR ApartProfessional Rescue Culture — Built around our core values of Rescue Readiness, Ownership, and Integrity.Versatile Assignments — Indoor pools, water park, contracted waterfronts, open water triathlons, and special events.Continuous Training — Paid academy, regular in-service training, and realistic rescue scenarios.Leadership Opportunities — Grow into Officer, Instructor, EMT, Open Water Rescue, Event Operations, or Auditing, Quality Assurance & Training roles.A Culture That Develops You — Coaching, mentorship, and continuous development throughout your career.What You'll DoPrevent emergencies through proactive surveillance and guest engagement.Respond confidently to aquatic and medical emergencies.Deliver CPR, first aid, and emergency care until EMS arrives.Conduct facility safety inspections and maintain operational readiness.Work as part of a disciplined rescue team committed to continuous improvement.Who We're Looking ForWe can teach rescue skills. We can't teach character.We're looking for people who take pride in holding themselves to a higher standard—people who are dependable, coachable, calm under pressure, and committed to serving something bigger than themselves.QualificationsAt least 17 years old by the start of the season.Strong swimming ability.Customer service, athletics, or team experience preferred.What You'll GainNationally recognized certifications enhanced with advanced first aid instruction taught by experienced EMTs and Paramedics.Leadership experience that matters by learning to make sound decisions, communicate clearly, mentor others, and earn the trust of your teammates during real operations.First response skills developed through realistic rescue scenarios, medical emergencies, and operational training that go beyond minimum certification standards.Confidence under pressure by learning to stay calm, think critically, and take action when every second counts.A professional network and experiences that last through unique assignments, meaningful responsibility, and serving alongside people who are committed to excellence.Be Part of Something GreaterNot everyone is built for this work.If you're ready to challenge yourself, embrace responsibility, and become part of a team that holds itself to a higher standard, we'd like to meet you.Apply today at thestjames.com or email [e-mail] to begin your journey with the Department of Safety & Rescue.Equal Opportunity Employer | Committed to Diversity & Inclusion