Be a lifeguard for the City of Boulder

Interested in working for Boulder as a lifeguard? We’re looking for lifeguards who can cover shifts on Monday – Friday from 5:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Need to get certified? Upcoming class info + registration

We’re also hiring swim instructors (apply here). Swim team experience is preferred and we offer in-house training.

Lifeguard Class Description

Receive a blend of online learning with in-person classroom learning with hands-on practice as you train to become a lifeguard. Course elements include water and land rescue skills, first aid for injuries and sudden illnesses, spinal injury management, swimmer and facility surveillance and CPR/AED and emergency care. This course includes a certification in American Red Cross Lifeguarding, which is valid for 2 years.

Prior to attending the classes, participants must be able to complete a 7.5-hour online course at home, and pass the written and hands-on skills in order to receive the certification.

Prerequisites must be completed on the first day to continue the course:

  • Must be 15 years old on or before the final scheduled session of the course
  • Swim 300 yards continuously demonstrating breath control and rhythmic breathing. Candidates may swim using the front crawl, breaststroke, or a combination of both, but swimming on the back or side is not allowed. Swim goggles may be used.
  • Tread water for 2 minutes using only the legs. Candidates should place their hands under the armpits or above the head.
  • Complete a timed event within 1 minute and 40 seconds:
    • Starting in the water, swim 20 yards. The face may be in or out of the water. Swim goggles are not allowed.
    • Surface dive, feet-first or head-first, to a depth of 7 to 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 with both hands holding the object and keeping the face at or near the surface so they are able to get a breath. Candidates should not swim the distance under water. Exit the water without using a ladder or steps.

Contact Hillary Osmack