Lifeguard

Distinguishing Features of the Class

Under general supervision, to safeguard swimming pool/aquatic center
patrons in various water areas and depths of aquatic facilities, and to ensure proper use of pool area.

Positions are available at the following aquatic centers and pools: Ashworth; Birdland; Nahas; Northwest and Teachout.

Application Process: Applicants deemed most qualified based on qualifications may be contacted for an interview. If you are submitting an application December - February, please know that it may be approximately 10-15 business days before you receive a response. If you are submitting an application March - July, please know that it may be approximately 5-10 business days before you receive a response.

Application Deadline: Applications are accepted until such time a sufficient number of qualified applications is received to fill the positions.

Approximate employment duration: Approximately 40 hours per week. Assigned work hours between 8:00 AM and 11:00 PM including weekends and holidays from May-September.

Paid Training: Pools will begin to open May 24, 2026 with paid training beginning May 11, 2026 for staff who are cleared to work.

Note: Hiring preference is given to applicants having the ability to work consistently throughout the season.

Acceptable Experience and Training

• Must be 15 years of age and able to secure a work permit.

Required Special Qualifications

• Candidates are required to possess a valid and current American Red Cross Lifeguard Training Certification and CPR Certification or have the ability to obtain required certifications by employment start date.
  • Certifications may be obtained through the American Red Cross and must be valid through September 02, 2026.
  • Candidates accepting a conditional offer of employment as a Lifeguard with the City of Des Moines will be offered the opportunity to take the Lifeguard training class through the City of Des Moines (class dates TBD). The registration fee will be waived for those who work as a Lifeguard for the City of Des Moines through August 15, 2026. Those who do not work as a Lifeguard for the City of Des Moines through August 15, 2026 will be required to pay a pro-rated amount for the certification training. Alternatively, lifeguard classes are offered year round throughout the community.
• Requires satisfactory criminal, sex offender and if applicable driving record background checks.
• Passing a pre-employment physical and drug screen is required prior to employment.

Examples of Essential Work (Illustrative Only)

• Enforces all rules and regulations regarding public health and safety;
• Warns patrons against hazardous practices and instructs patrons on facility rules;
• Assists persons in distress by applying lifeguarding techniques and performing water rescues;
• Applies First Aid and Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation as needed. Maintains constant watch for accidents or potential accidents or hazards in all water areas and depths of aquatic facilities;
• Possess and utilize superior customer service skills;
• Assists with maintenance work on or around the aquatic facilities;
• Performs cleaning duties relative to opening, operating, and closing the facilities as well as vacuuming the pool, cleaning floors, counters, restrooms, decks and landscaped areas;
• Lifeguards may be required to work before or after public swimming hours for special aquatic programs or facility rentals.