Head Lifeguard - Seasonal

Description/Duties

This classification has been designated as a non‑benefited, non‑classified, non‑merit system, at‑will position. The City of Mesa is currently recruiting Head Lifeguards for the Summer Season as well as year‑round opportunities. The Season runs from April 2026 through August 2026. Applicants from this recruitment may also be considered for year‑round positions.

• Participate in and provide supervision of Lifeguards.
• Monitor activities at a City‑operated swimming pool, functioning as a Lifeguard in maintaining order, preventing accidents, rescuing swimmers in distress, and providing swimming instruction.
• Participate in scheduling of personnel, assigning Lifeguards to duty stations, and giving instructions in pool operating procedures, rules, safety practices, maintenance, and related matters.
• Conduct reviews of Lifeguard activity, correct improper practices, and check the pool, decking, diving boards, locker rooms, and pool equipment for safety hazards or needed repairs.
• Coordinate the maintenance and repair of pool facilities.
• Check the chemical content of pool water, make or request changes in chemical additives, and supervise cleaning of the pool and surrounding areas.
• Plan, organize, and run events, games, and activities at the facility.
• Work with the Aquatics Programmer to promote and lead event activities at the pool.
• Assume administrative responsibilities in the absence of the Assistant Pool Manager and Pool Manager.
• Perform related duties as required.

Qualified applicants must successfully complete one skills test. The first skills test will be offered on Saturday, March 21 2026, and remaining staffing needs will be filled at a second skills test on Saturday, April 4 2026. Skills testing will include an assessment of various lifeguard skills, fitness level, and a verbal interview. To attend either skills test, applications must be received online by 11:59 p.m., Wednesday, March 18 2026, and the applicant must receive an email invitation with details of the skills testing event.

Applications received after April 1st will be considered on an as‑needed basis.

Lifeguard and Water Safety Instructor certification classes are offered by the City of Mesa beginning in February. A skills test review is offered the Friday before each scheduled skills test. For class times, locations, and registration fee information, visit the City of Mesa Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities website.

All staff will be provided a black swimsuit/shorts uniform, two lifeguard t-shirts, and a Fox 40 whistle. Visible tattoos with inappropriate lettering or images such as nudity or offensive language must be covered. Visible body piercings must be appropriate and professional.

The City of Mesa is offering reimbursement for the cost of obtaining a Water Safety Instructor Certification (up to $229 each) through the City. Specific eligibility requirements will be provided upon employment offer and must be met to receive reimbursements.

• All employees are expected to uphold City values of Knowledge, Respect, and Integrity.
• Some (3‑6 months) experience as a Lifeguard.
• Must possess a valid Class D Arizona Driver’s License by hire or promotion date.
• Valid Lifeguard Certification, CPR for the Professional Rescuer Certification, and a Swim Lesson Instructor (SLI) certification or Water Safety Instructor (WSI) or equivalent certification by hire date.
• Persons subject to pre‑employment or pre‑placement alcohol, drug, and/or controlled substance testing.
• Preferred:
  Graduation from high school or GED (preferred). Bilingual in Spanish (desirable).

Further details and the full job description can be found at (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). Description s/. A summary of City of Mesa benefits is linked here.