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Senior Lifeguard

City of Costa Mesa (CA)

Costa Mesa, CA

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JOB DETAILS
SALARY
$23–$27.96 Per Hour
SKILLS
Background Investigation, CPR Certification, Calendar Management, California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS), Cerebral Vascular Accident, Child Development, Conference Management, Customer Support/Service, Defibrillator, Disciplinary Action, First Aid, Fitness, Government, Heavy Lifting, High School Diploma, Housekeeping/Cleaning, Leadership, Maintenance - Pool, Mathematics, Operations, Organizational Skills, Pathogens, People Management, Performance Reviews, Performance Testing, Presentation/Verbal Skills, Project/Program Management, Public Safety, Quality Assurance Methodology, Record Keeping, Recreation, Regulations, Reporting Skills, Resolve Customer Issues, Staff Training, Surface Water, Swimming, Team Lead/Manager, Test Program, Training/Teaching, Training/Teaching Curriculum, Volunteer Experience, Water Quality Testing, Writing Skills
LOCATION
Costa Mesa, CA
POSTED
3 days ago
Salary: $23.00 - $27.96 Hourly
Location : Costa Mesa, CA, CA
Job Type: PART-TIME
Job Number: 0505:04/26
Department: Parks and Community Services
Opening Date: 04/16/2026
Closing Date: Continuous

Description
Come join our City, known as the "City of Arts" and regarded as Orange County's
"Capital of Cool"!

Senior Lifeguard (Part-time): $23.00 - $27.96 per hour
THE POSITION:
Under general supervision, this position assists in supervising and conducting the daily operation of the City aquatics program site, including the assistance in the planning and monitoring of aquatic classes and programs; and assists in the training and supervising of pool employees.
CLASS CHARACTERISTICS:
An incumbent in this classification patrols the swimming pool and aquatics facility to ensure safe and enjoyable program activities; and completes required department paperwork. Incumbents in this classification may supervise and perform work in the teaching of specific techniques to participants in the aquatics program. Incumbents are responsible for ensuring that the skills which are outlined in the course description are taught; assisting in any required pre-testing program to assign the participants into classes, divisions or ability groups; assisting in curriculum planning; providing safe and enjoyable program activities; evaluating participant progress/performance; and completing required departmental paperwork. Incumbents acts as a direct supervisor to Instructor Lifeguards and are responsible for handling customer service issues with tact. Work is reviewed through regularly scheduled conferences, reports and evaluations.

SCHEDULE / IMPORTANT UPCOMING DATES:
Year Round: This is a part-time position, working throughout the year. Work schedules vary as needed. As a condition of employment, a Senor Lifeguard must be available for all in-service training, annual training dates and annual fitness performance test.
Seasonal: This is a seasonal part-time position, working during the school year (September to May) or the Summer (June to August). Work schedules vary as needed. As a condition of seasonal employment, a Senior Lifeguard must be available for all in-service training, and during the entire seasoned worked.
Incumbents will be required to attend the following upcoming training dates: May 26th - May 29th and June 1st - June 6th.
APPLICATION AND SELECTION PROCESS:

All components of the selection process will be held on an as needed basis and by appointment, at the Downtown Aquatic Center. To be considered for employment, the following must be completed:
  1. Submit an online application. Applications will be screened for minimum qualifications. Based upon the information presented on the application, a limited number of candidates who possess qualifications most pertinent to the position will be invited to participate in the selection process.
  2. Attend In-Water Physical Fitness Testing and Selection Interviews on the date you are scheduled. Participants will be required to sign a Waiver of Liability form. Applicants age 17 and under must bring a waiver signed by a parent or guardian.

    In-Water Physical Fitness Test components: Tread water for 120 seconds using only the legs. Candidates should place their hands above water.
    • 25 yard dive and approach swim (head up) in 18 seconds or less.
    • Complete a timed event within 90 seconds, without the use of swim goggles:
      • Starting in the water, swim 20 yards. The face may be in or out of the water.
      • Surface dive, feet-first or head-first, to a depth of 7 to 10 feet to retrieve a 10-pound swim brick.
      • Return to the surface and swim 20 yards on their back returning to the starting point, with both hands still holding the object while keeping their face at or near the surface of the water for breaths. Candidates should not swim the distance under water.
      • Exit the water without using a ladder or steps.
    • 200 yard swim in 3 minutes and 30 seconds or less, swim goggles may be used.

Selection Interviews:
  • Applicants who successfully complete the In-Water Physical Fitness Test will be invited to participate in the selection interviews. Interviews will begin after all the fitness testing is complete.
EXPERIENCE AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:
Applicants must possess at least two (2) years of paid or volunteer experience as a pool or beach guard.
Applicants must possess or have the ability to obtain the following certifications:

  • American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification, including CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer must be obtained within six (6) weeks from the date of hire.
  • American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor.
  • First Aid for Public Safety Personnel (Title 22).
  • Bloodborne Pathogens Certification.
For applicants that do not currently possess the required certifications, the City may assist you in obtaining them at no cost to you via a City-led certification course. All certifications must be obtained within one (1) year from the date of hire, unless otherwise stated. Additionally, certifications must be maintained throughout employment to remain in the position. Failure to either obtain or maintain certifications may result in disciplinary action, reassignment, or termination.

Desirable Certifications:
The following certifications are not required, but are considered highly desirable:
  • American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor
  • American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor Trainer
  • American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor Trainer
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Applications must be completed and submitted online. This recruitment will remain open until filled and may close without prior notice, therefore prompt application is encouraged
First application review date: Thursday, April 30, 2026

Applications must be completed and submitted online. Candidates are requested to provide specific information on their education and experience as it relates to the position by completing all fields of the application. Applications may be rejected if incomplete. Based upon the information presented on the application, a limited number of candidates who possess qualifications most pertinent to the position will be invited to participate in the selection process. The selection process will include: application review and evaluation, In-Water Physical Fitness Test, and selection interview. Please notify the Human Resources Division 72 hours in advance of the test date if you have a disability which requires accommodation for the testing process.
Notifications during this recruitment will be sent by email only (regardless of the notification preference selected during the online application process). Notifications will be sent to the email address that is listed on your online application.
All employment offers made by the City are contingent upon establishing proof of a prospective candidate's legal authorization to work in the United States and successfully passing all components of the pre-employment process which may include, but is not limited to: comprehensive background check, criminal history check (Live Scan fingerprint check), reference check, and post-offer medical evaluation (may include drug screen).
Note: The provisions of this job bulletin do not constitute an expressed or implied contract. Any provisions contained within may be modified or revoked without notice.
Essential Functions

These functions may not be present in all positions in this class. Management reserves the right to add, modify, change or rescind work assignments as needed.

Assists in training, scheduling, supervising, and evaluating aquatic staff and other Recreation employees. Assists in organizing and conducting monthly and annual in-service training for aquatic staff.

Assists in overseeing, coordinating, and conducting aquatic programs and lessons. Assists in developing creative programs that incorporate various aquatics experiences and water safety. Makes recommendations regarding necessary equipment and supplies.

Functions as the on-site supervisor of aquatic programming in the absence of the Recreation Specialist, Recreation Coordinator, Recreation Supervisor, or Senior Recreation Supervisor.

Monitors and patrols the swimming pool and aquatics facility including keeping a lookout for accidents in the water and pool area; warns patrons and dangerous practices with pool usage; follows and enforces pool regulations and codes in an effort to prevent patron accidents.

Recognizes, enters water, and performs aquatic emergency rescues in the pool area; and administers artificial respiration, CPR/AED, and First Aid as needed.

Serves as an Instructor Lifeguard, as required. Teaches swimming lessons according to prescribed and approved methods by the American Red Cross in addition to specialized aquatic classes such as Aqua Aerobics or Aqua Boot Camp.

Maintains program records and prepares reports as required.

Monitors and assists with desk reception, telephone support and, related customer service activities.

Monitors and assists in accepting registrations, collects fees, processes receipts, and accounts for money; acts as cashier as needed.

Monitors and assists in preparation of facilities for regular operation of lap swim, lessons, and other daily operations. Removes and replaces pool covers and lane lines. Assists with routine pool cleaning and maintenance work on or around swimming pool.

Performs other duties as required.
Qualification Guidelines
A typical way to obtain the requisite knowledge and abilities to perform the duties and responsibilities of this classification is as follows:

Education, Training and/or Experience:

Graduation from high school or its equivalent.

Two (2) years of paid or volunteer experience as a pool or beach guard.

Experience working with children and youth is desirable.
License and/or Certificate:
Possession of a valid Class C California Driver License may be required for certain positions. Revocation of license during employment may result in disciplinary action or reassignment.
A current (less than two years) tuberculosis clearance certificate by date of hire.
Possession of or the ability to obtain the following certifications:
  • American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification, including CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer must be obtained within six (6) weeks from the date of hire.
  • American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor.
  • First Aid for Public Safety Personnel (Title 22).
  • Bloodborne Pathogens Certification.


All certifications must be obtained within one (1) year from the date of hire, unless otherwise stated. Additionally, certifications must be maintained throughout employment to remain in the position. Failure to either obtain or maintain certifications may result in disciplinary action, reassignment, or termination.

Additional American Red Cross certifications are desirable.
Requisite Knowledge and Skill Levels:

Knowledge of effective lifesaving techniques; and basic and advanced swimming strokes.

Considerable knowledge of swimming pool operations and maintenance functions, basic principles of group management and child development.

Knowledge and skills in effective customer service techniques.

General knowledge of municipal recreation, water safety, and aquatic practices and principles.

Skilled in lifeguarding, First Aid, and CPR/AED techniques.

Skilled in reading, writing, and communicating at an appropriate and professional level.
Requisite Abilities:

Ability to act quickly, calmly, and appropriately in emergency situations; ability to perform lifesaving and rescue techniques, including administering CPR/AED and First Aid.

Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with other City employees and the public.

Ability to lead, coordinate, and train aquatic staff; teach proper swimming techniques and water safety; and prepare reports.

Ability to generate interest among program/class participants; evaluate and maintain participant progress and records.

Ability to follow written and oral instructions.

Ability to perform basic mathematic computations.

Ability to swim the six basic strokes proficiently and with endurance; and effectively instruct and demonstrate desired skills and strokes for lesson participants.

Ability to work a flexible schedule, which may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Ability to attend annual, mandatory pre-summer orientation/training.

Supplemental Information

PUBLIC EMPLOYEE DISASTER SERVICE WORKER:

In accordance with Government Code Section 3100 - all City of Costa Mesa employees are required to perform assigned disaster service worker duties in the event of an emergency or a disaster.

PHYSICAL TASKS AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:

Must be able to pass an in-water physical fitness performance test annually for continued employment.

Candidates must be able to lift heavy weights (e.g., a child) and must be able to work for extended periods in the outdoors, exposed to the sun, water, and varying temperatures.

Exposure to various swimming pool water chemicals, such as chlorine.

Employee accommodations for physical or mental disabilities will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER:

The City of Costa Mesa is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
To view 2026 benefit information for all groups,

Part-Time employees are appointed by and serve at the will of the Department Director. They are reviewed for merit salary advancement on a periodic basis. Generally, part-time employees are limited to no more than 1,000 hours of work per fiscal year (July 1 - June 30). Certain part-time employees, however, are permitted to exceed this limit.

Part-time employees participate in either the Public Agency Retirement System (PARS) or the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS) depending on eligibility. Employees enrolled in PARS contribute 3.75% of salary with a matching City contribution. Employees enrolled in CalPERS contribute 7.5% - 10.469% of salary depending on eligibility.

Part-time positions are eligible to receive general leave benefits. General leave can be used for sick, vacation, or holiday time.

The City does not participate in the Social Security system; however, federal mandate requires all new employees to contribute 1.45% of wages to Medicare. As a condition of employment, all new employees are required to enroll and participate in the direct deposit program.
01

The Senior Lifeguard position requires the following American Red Cross or other state recognized certifications: 1) Lifeguard Training, 2) CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer, 3) Water Safety Instructor, 4) First Aid for Public Safety Personnel (Title 22), and 5) Bloodborne Pathogens Certification. Please check which of the following certifications you currently possess:
  • Lifeguard Training
  • CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer
  • Water Safety Instructor
  • First Aid
  • Bloodborne Pathogens Certification
  • None of the above

02

If you do not currently possess the above required conditions, do you understand that continued employment is conditional upon you obtaining and maintaining all of the required certifications?
  • Yes
  • No

03

I understand that if I'm currently certified and invited to participate in the selection process, I must present my current original certification(s) during the In-Water Physical Fitness Testing/Interview process. Copies of your original certification(s) will be made and added to your application material the day of testing. Please note, certifications may also be uploaded to your application prior to submission in lieu of bringing physical copies.
  • Yes
  • No
  • N/A - I do not possess any current certifications.

04

Have you ever worked with children? If yes, please explain to what capacity (job/volunteer title, age group of children, type of activities/capacity). If no, please indicate "No experience working with children."
05

Please describe any recreational, competitive, and/or professional experience you have as it relates to aquatic programs. If none, please indicate "none."
06

Have you ever supervised staff? If yes, please indicate the job title and how many staff you supervised. If no, please indicate "No".
07

For which season(s) are you applying for? Please check all that apply:
  • All (Year-Round Employment
  • Spring (March - May)
  • Summer (June - August)
  • Fall (September - November)
  • Winter (December - February)

08

What is your availability? In your response, please indicate hours available to work each day of the week: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
09

Please list the first date you are able to start working.
10

Please list the date through which you can commit to working. If you are applying for a year-round position, please type "Year-Round" as your response.
11

I understand that to be eligible for further consideration, I must be invited to and successfully complete the In-Water Physical Fitness Testing/Interview Process. If you are selected to participate, you will be notified of your appointment date and time via email.
  • Yes
  • No

12

I understand that an incomplete application may lead to disqualification form the recruitment process and I have supplied all the applicable information in my application. Examples of incomplete/inaccurate information leading to disqualification include, but are not limited to: noting incorrect department, leaving dates of employment bank, leaving reason for leaving employment bank, leaving duties or noting "see resume", etc.
  • Agree
  • Disagree

13

I certify that all information I provided in my application is accurate to the best of my knowledge and belief and that purposely providing false information may be grounds for disqualifications from the process.
  • Agree
  • Disagree

Required Question

About the Company

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City of Costa Mesa (CA)

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