Temporary Lifeguard

City of Alexandria; Alexandria (VA); On-site; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

The City of Alexandria’s Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities is hiring Temporary Lifeguards for indoor and outdoor pools across the city. This seasonal role emphasizes safety, rule enforcement, and customer service as you monitor swimmers and respond to emergencies.

Shifts vary by morning, day, evening, and weekend, with opportunities for summer or year-round work. Training and Red Cross certification are provided; lifeguard prerequisites include swimming tests and a commitment

Qualifications

• Must be at least 15 years of age by the start of employment.
• Ability to pass lifeguard prerequisites and water skills assessments.
• CPR/AED and first aid certifications are required or provided during training.

Responsibilities

• Maintain constant surveillance of patrons in and around the pool.
• Prevent and respond to emergencies, including water rescues and first aid.
• Communicate clearly and respectfully with the public and fellow staff.
• Assist with pool setup, cleanliness, and daily operations.
• Support swim meets, special events, and other recreation activities as assigned.

Skills

Communication

Teamwork

Customer service

Education

Must be 15 years old

Tools

Lifeguard certification

CPR/AED certification

First aid certification

Job description

Temporary Lifeguard

Aquatics/Recreation Services

Position Overview

The Lifeguard plays a key role in promoting safety and positive experiences at City of Alexandria pools. Lifeguards monitor swimmers, enforce rules, and respond to emergencies, creating a welcoming environment for swimmers of all ages. This seasonal position is an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking their first job or looking to build professional experience in a team-focused setting.

A Message from the Director

Welcome to the City of Alexandria’s Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities. I am excited that you are considering joining our team. Every day, we have the privilege of serving a city that values connection, creativity, and community. Our parks, programs, and cultural spaces reflect Alexandria’s diversity and spirit, and our people are the heart of it all.

As you explore opportunities within RPCA, know that you are stepping into a department where teamwork, curiosity, and service guide everything we do. We take pride in our work, we find purpose in our impact, and we celebrate the difference each team member makes. Together, we are building something meaningful for the people of Alexandria, and I am grateful for your interest in being part of it.

Hashim T. Taylor, Director

Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities

The Opportunity

Lifeguards are assigned to indoor and outdoor pool facilities throughout the City. Shifts are available during mornings, daytime, evenings, and weekends. Positions are available for summer or year-round. In this position, you’ll work as part of a supportive team to:

• Maintain constant surveillance of patrons in and around the pool.
• Prevent and respond to emergencies, including water rescues and first aid.
• Communicate clearly and respectfully with the public and fellow staff.
• Assist with pool setup, cleanliness, and daily operations.

This role also supports swim meets, special events, and other recreation activities as assigned.

Your Impact

As a Lifeguard, you help create a safe space where swimmers can build confidence, improve their health, learn lifelong skills, and make lasting memories. In the process, you’ll gain hands‑on experience in leadership, teamwork, and public safety, and emergency medical response—skills that serve you well in any future path.

What You Should Bring

Successful candidates demonstrate responsibility, good judgment, and a commitment to safety. Strong communication and teamwork skills are essential.

Candidates with and without current Lifeguard certification are encouraged to apply. Paid training and American Red Cross certification are provided for successful applicants who meet the required prerequisite swimming skills:

Prerequisite 1

1. Jump into the water and totally submerge, resurface then swim 150 yards using the front crawl, breaststroke or a combination of both. (Swimming on the back or side is not permitted. Swim goggles are allowed.)
2. Maintain position at the surface of the water for 2 minutes by treading water using only the legs.
3. Swim 50 yards using the front crawl, breaststroke or a combination of both.

Prerequisite 2

1. Starting in the water, swim 20 yards. (The face may be in or out of the water. Swim goggles are not allowed.)
2. Surface dive (feet-first or head-first) to a depth of 7 – 10 feet to retrieve a 10-pound object. Return to the surface and swim 20 yards on the back to return to the starting point, holding the object at the surface with both hands and keeping the face out at or near the surface.
3. Exit the water without using a ladder or steps.

About the Department

The Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities (RPCA) enriches the lives of Alexandria residents through diverse programming, well-maintained public spaces, and inclusive cultural activities. RPCA is nationally accredited by the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA), having met rigorous best-practice standards in the industry.

• CPR/AED first aid training certification
• Lifeguard or similar water rescue certification

Additional Requirements

• Must be at least 15 years of age by the start of employment.
• Ability to demonstrate the lifeguard prerequisites listed above.

Previous experience in a customer service, recreation, or aquatic setting. Familiarity with safety protocols and emergency response.

This position requires pre-employment background checks which include, but is not limited to, a criminal records check and drug screening.