Seasonal Lifeguard - Reichardt Community Recreation Center

General Statement of Duties

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 recreation center: Reichardt Community Recreation Center

Application Process: Applicants deemed most qualified based on qualifications may be contacted for an interview.

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 7:30 PM including weekends from December 2026 - March 2027.

Note: Hiring preference is given to applicants having the ability to work consistently throughout the season and who hold a current lifeguard certification.

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 March 31, 2027.
  • 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 December 4 -6, 2026). The registration fee will be waived for those who work as a Lifeguard for the City of Des Moines through January 31, 2027. Those who do not work as a Lifeguard for the City of Des Moines through January 31, 2027 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 driving record background checks.

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.